Description

Canada’s economy is at a crossroads, Join BDC’s Chief Economist, Pierre Cléroux as he shares their 2026 Economic Forecast and helps companies prepare for the current business landscape. Discover the forces driving Canada’s economic transformation and what it means for business and the housing sector. 

Hear from builders, developers, local businesses, and government representatives as they engage in a thoughtful discussion on housing affordability, the impacts of provincial policy, and strategies to support sustainable growth across the region.

Pierre Cléroux was appointed Vice President, Research and Chief Economist at BDC in 2012. Pierre leads a team of experts who analyze economic data to identify business and sector trends impacting Canadian entrepreneurs. A seasoned speaker, Pierre helps business owners understand the risks and opportunities presented by the economic environment.

Hayley Woodin Hastings is Strategic Advisor to B.C.’s Lieutenant Governor, supporting initiatives advancing economic opportunity, health innovation, and inclusion. An award-winning journalist, she led Business in Vancouver, holds a Columbia Journalism MS, serves on boards, and is a Canada’s Most Powerful Women honouree and King Charles Coronation Medal recipient, honoured.

Gerald Heinrichs brings over 30 years of real estate development expertise as founder of Heinrichs Developments, leading projects across the Fraser Valley. Formerly Managing Partner, Director of Acquisitions, and President of Mission Group Construction, he drove land acquisitions and now delivers commercial projects and communities throughout Lower Mainland and Interior.

Lesa Lacey is Business Manager at Lacey Construction, a five-time Custom Home Builder of the Year. A community leader, she serves as CHBA-BC President and sits on multiple boards. Passionate about women in trades, she is an award-winning advocate supporting workforce development and local food security initiatives.

Jeff Rank is a leading Vancouver real estate executive and Senior Vice President, Leasing, Commercial, BC at QuadReal Property Group. With 38 years’ experience, he held senior roles at Bentall Kennedy and Cushman & Wakefield, overseeing leasing, strata sales, pre-leasing, and contributing to BCFSA and Union Gospel Mission locally today.

Paul Penner brings decades of leadership in customer service as a former retail business owner and Realtor for over 30 years. A two-time #1 commercial Realtor, he balances residential and business needs. Active on community boards and a provincial instructor, he currently serves as President of the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce.