October COEDC Advisory Committee Meeting Focused on the Enhanced Okanagan Manufacturing Database and Trade Disruptions

Advisory Committee October 20, 2026

As businesses navigate supply chain disruptions, evolving trade policies, and global uncertainty, economic resilience remains a key priority in the Central Okanagan. These themes shaped discussions at the COEDC Advisory Committee’s final meeting of 2026, which focused on the enhanced Okanagan Manufacturing Database and trade impacts on regional businesses.

Manufacturing Database Demonstration

Committee members received a demonstration of the enhanced Okanagan Manufacturing Database from CityViz co-founder Sasha Bogdanovic. Building on the database launched by COEDC and the Okanagan Manufacturing Network in 2025, the enhanced platform provides deeper insights into the Okanagan manufacturing supply chain.

As supply chains become more complex and trade uncertainty continues, access to regional manufacturing data is increasingly important. Better visibility into local capabilities and supplier networks helps businesses strengthen supply chains, identify opportunities closer to home, and support informed growth and investment decisions.

The enhanced database supports business matching, supply chain analysis, import substitution, business expansion, investment attraction, and foreign direct investment (FDI). Through an interactive map and directory, users can identify potential suppliers and customers, and industry connections across the region. A secure version for Economic Development Officers (EDOs) will provide additional insights into supply chain gaps, sourcing opportunities, high-demand materials, and potential business matches to better support local businesses.

Economic Development Officer Nji Mbitaownu noted that the platform can reduce economic leakage while supporting business matching, investment attraction, and early warning efforts by identifying supply chain gaps and risks.

Committee members emphasized that the platform’s success depends on industry participation. Okanagan manufacturers are encouraged to complete the updated intake form and use the platform when it launches in November to help improve data accuracy and gain access to supply chain insights, sourcing opportunities, and potential business matches.

MNP Presentation on Trade Disruptions

As tariffs and trade uncertainty continue to reshape supply chains, businesses are being challenged to better understand their trade exposure and strengthen resilience. Jennifer Hollis, Regional Managing Partner, and Heather Weber, National Indirect Tax Leader at MNP, highlighted the impacts across sectors and emphasized the importance of assessing supply chains, managing trade risks, and maintaining strong supplier and customer relationships.

The discussion also highlighted opportunities arising from current trade conditions, including U.S. companies establishing operations in Canada to reduce tariff exposure, improve supply chain resilience, and access new markets. Businesses were encouraged to regularly review their supply chains, sourcing strategies, and trade risks to adapt to changing market conditions.

The presenters highlighted how the enhanced Manufacturing Database can help businesses identify local suppliers, uncover supply chain gaps, assess tariff exposure, and strengthen regional supply chain connections. They also emphasized the importance of accurate product classification, as small differences can have significant financial implications.

Their presentation concluded with an overview of funding and financing programs available to help businesses respond to trade-related challenges, including the Regional Tariff Response Initiative, BDC’s Pivot to Grow, EDC’s Trade Impact Program, FCC’s Trade Disruption Customer Support Program, and the Strategic Response Fund for larger-scale projects. MNP noted that businesses with clear project plans, financial forecasts, defined budgets, strong supply chain knowledge, and growth strategies are better positioned to access funding opportunities.

While the topics were distinct, both discussions underscored the growing importance of supply chain visibility and business preparedness. As trade conditions become more complex, tools such as the enhanced Manufacturing Database can help businesses better understand supply chain relationships, identify sourcing opportunities, and strengthen regional connections.

This marked the final COEDC Advisory Committee meeting of 2026. The committee will reconvene on February 17, 2027, to continue discussions on issues and opportunities impacting businesses and economic development across the Central Okanagan.

The COEDC Advisory Committee, a 45-member group of industry leaders, community shapers, and elected officials, meets monthly to share information, collaborate, and work together towards sustainable economic growth.