NEWS RELEASE
GEORGIAN COLLEGE
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The seventh annual Xcelerate Summit will be a virtual event available to a global audience Oct. 20 to 23. The four-day conference brings together the area’s most prominent business leaders and features a host of stellar keynote speakers, hands-on workshops and networking opportunities. It will offer 36 hours of practical, actionable business advice, real-world knowledge, inspiration and one-degree networking.
There will be two keynote speakers this year. Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe is a multi-award-winning psychology and education instructor who specializes in resiliency, navigating stress and change, and personal wellness in the workplace. She will be speaking on diversity, inclusivity and resiliency on Oct. 21.
The second keynote on Oct. 22 will feature technology and media expert Jesse Brown. Brown, the author of Canadaland and creator of Bitmoji and Bitstrips, will provide a glimpse into the future of Canada’s institutions with respect to rapid technological and cultural change. From business to government to media, disruption is here and Brown explains how to stay on top of the challenging shifts ahead.
“COVID has changed almost everything – and it’s also spurred innovation,” said Mayor Jeff Lehman, City of Barrie. “While we’ve all had to cope with a new reality, the changes many businesses and entrepreneurs have had to make can ultimately bring increased capacity and sustainability.
"Managing this crisis while keeping an eye on both fundamentals and the future will be the order of the day and while Xcelerate will operate differently, as the premiere business event in Central Ontario, we look forward to bringing another future-facing, exciting agenda of speakers and workshops to you in a new way,” said Lehman.
The event is organized by Georgian’s Henry Bernick Entrepreneurship Centre, the City of Barrie, the Small Business Centre of Barrie, Simcoe County and the City of Orillia, the Barrie Chamber of Commerce, the Sandbox Centre, the Town of Innisfil, Grow Vantage, Office Inc., and the Simcoe County Young Professionals Association.
“This virtual summit will also feature many local thought leaders demonstrating how central Ontario is the perfect place to start and grow a business,” said Sara Bentham, Director of the Henry Bernick Entrepreneurship Centre. “Xcelerate demonstrates what can be achieved – even virtually.”
Bentham added that the virtual event allows entrepreneurs from across Canada to stay connected and network while keeping safety protocols and physical distancing measures in place.
Tickets for the virtual conference are $50 and can be purchased online at xceleratesummit.co. New this year is a special VIP Xperience package for $125. It’s full of creative and interactive items giving attendees full access to an additional array of Xperience virtual sessions, including tastings, meditation, yoga, and a social night.
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