Abbotsford Innovation Network Launches with Exciting Event

Written By Shelby Pedersen

Photos by © Dale Klippenstein with the support from Tourism Abbotsford

The Abbotsford Innovation Network (AIN) held its first event, "Abby Innovates: Connecting Minds, Sparking Ideas" on February 28th at Trading Post in Abbotsford. The event was a resounding success, with a sold-out full house of more than 50 attendees, including innovators, entrepreneurs, and creatives.

Dr. Jon Thomas, Director of the Esposito Family Centre for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at the University of the Fraser Valley, delivered the keynote speech. Dr. Thomas emphasized that invention and innovation are not limited to big cities, citing US patent grant data showing that the number of patents from firms in Abbotsford has risen consistently over the decades.

Following the keynote, attendees participated in a World Café, where they discussed topics related to innovation, entrepreneurship, and community building. The AIN team will analyze the insights and ideas shared and share them with the community.

World Café Topics:

  1. Designing spaces for innovation and creativity - what could we do in Abbotsford?

  2. From ideas to the market - incubators, accelerators, venture studios - what do we need in the Fraser Valley?

  3. Building a sustainable innovation ecosystem: How can the Abbotsford Innovation Network foster collaboration and support among entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders?

  4. The intersection of innovation and social impact: How can Abbotsford's innovation efforts be directed towards addressing social challenges and creating a more inclusive and equitable society?

  5. In what ways can a network like AIN help entrepreneurs, creatives, innovators like you in the Valley and beyond? What are some of your needs that something like the AIN could address?

AIN Co-Founder Gavin Dew of Abbotsford Tech District said, "We believe in the potential of Abbotsford to be a place where things can happen." Co-Founder and Abbotsford-based entrepreneur Jon Morrison added, "Collision helped create AIN, and I can't wait to see what will happen next."

The event was sponsored by Abbotsford Tech District, Tourism Abbotsford, Conexkt, Get Clear Consulting, and Solar Plexed Productions. The AIN plans to continue hosting events and partnering with organizations to foster collaboration and support among entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders.

Shelby Pedersen