What to put on your business agenda in November 2017

 SCALE 

BC BUSINESS SUMMIT
Themed Scaling Up for Prosperity in a Changing World, this year’s Business Council of B.C. event explores such topics as how to leverage the province’s position as Canada’s gateway to the Asia Pacific and the northern hub of the Cascadia Innovation Corridor to boost our talent, trade and supply-chain capabilities; how business and the education system can collaborate to prepare for the future world of work while attracting and retaining the best talent to drive innovation; and what policies can accelerate greater investment in technology, equipment and other productivity-enhancing tools to leverage our competitive strengths. The keynote speakers are Microsoft Corp. president and chief legal officer Brad Smith (above) and Royal Bank of Canada senior VP John Stackhouse.
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, November 1 $249, table of four $996, table of eight $1,892

 SUSTAIN 

ZERO WASTE CONFERENCE
The global circular economy will be worth US$4.5 trillion by 2030, according to management consulting firm Accenture PLC. Metro Vancouver’s 2017 conference discusses how to transform the delivery of goods and services in a way that eliminates waste but supports business growth and development; how established businesses can make the change; and what new opportunities exist in the marketplace for startups and entrepreneurs. Sessions include keeping plastics out of our ocean and in our economy; reducing the environmental impact of textiles; and curtailing food waste.
Vancouver Convention Centre, November 1 $200

 PROBE 

PROFESSIONAL INVESTIGATION CONFERENCE
This Professional Investigators’ Association of B.C. conference is open to those working in private investigation and related industries, but others will be considered for approval. A workshop on collecting biological information kicks things off on Friday. Saturday offers advice on solicitor-client privilege and no-contact orders, ICBC fraud investigations and the current standards for online investigations, plus complimentary breakfast and lunch, and a gala dinner with live entertainment.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler; November 3 and 4 $225 (members), $245 (non-members), gala $89, workshop $50 (members), $75 (non-members)

 EXIT 

BUSINESS TRANSITIONS FORUM
Find out how to exit your business successfully in the near or distant future. Learn about trends in mergers and acquisitions; how and when to plan a transition; how to determine what your business is worth and who your buyers are; selling to insiders or third parties; handing your business over to family–and more. The day wraps up with a panel of former owners who will discuss what they would change if they had to do a business transition over again, followed by cocktails and networking.
The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver; November 15 $895, $1,095 on-site