Yay — you survived Conference Day 1!
Come get some fresh ocean air and mountain views before round two.
A morning walk-and-talk for global founders expanding into Canada.
Four founders actively building and scaling in Canada right now — here to give you the unfiltered read on the Vancouver scene.
📅 Wednesday, May 13, 2026 · 7:45–9:15 AM
📍 meet at LOT185 Café, Convention Centre Lobby
🎟 Free
First-hand perspective from an exited founder & Canadian newcomer building her next venture here
The right work permit, the path to permanent residence, and the real timeline
How to build a lean ops layer to get boots on the ground before you land
A clear lens on hiring Canadian talent to build your core team without burning cash
Best fit if you have or are considering opening a Canadian entity in the next 12 months, weighing relocating yourself or a co-founder, or planning to hire your first Canadian employee.
Brooke Finlay — Founder, Navio Immigration
The "which work permit is the best fit, and how do I get PR?" question.
Brooke leads Navio Immigration (RCIC #R514337). Immigration built for founders and key hires of scaling teams — work permits, intra-company transfers, and PR pathways that don't stall growth.
Rachel Wood — Founder, Rachel Wood Coaching
The "what nobody tells you about actually moving here" question.
Rachel exited a multi-million dollar consumer brand and immigrated to Canada herself. Knows the paperwork, the personal stuff, and the quiet landmines.
Sam Shaw — Co-founder, Assist-her
The "who do I call in month one when I don't know any vendors yet?" question.
Sam pairs founders with operators and VAs who have Canadian domain expertise — so you're not spending month one figuring out who to call.
Steph Daudlin — Founder, Octopus HR
The 'how do I attract the right talent — and what are my obligations as an employer?' question."
Steph is a fractional CHRO who builds Canadian teams from first hire through the first fifty.
Sonya Dolguina — Co-Author of Your Move to Canada
The 'what are the financial and tax implications for my organization and my employees?' question.
Sonya is a cross-border tax advisor and helps founders and their employees navigate the intersection of international wealth management, tax minimization and compliance.
7:45 AM — coffee at LOT185 Café (bring your travel mug)
8:00 AM — walk and talk along the Coal Harbour seawall
8:20 AM — Cardero Park: full-group conversation, questions on the table
9:00 AM — wrap. Quick 15-minute walk back to the Convention Centre for the 9:30
keynote
Flat, paved, stroller-friendly. Dress for Vancouver weather.
Questions? [email protected]
Hosted by Brooke Finlay, RCIC #R514337 · Navio Immigration