b'planning localLOCAL COLLABORATIONS notes, there are plenty to put underbuild the knowledge economy we Unlocking the full potential of athe microscope. Take the IPCCalready have and are growing so well, Canadian destination means working[Intergovernmental Panel on Climatehe adds.with local experts. And yet, plannersChange] event held in Edmonton,International destinations have sometimes forget they have access tohe says. It had a lasting impact ontheir draws. Nevertheless, Canada destination marketing organizationssustainability efforts in northernis home to a wealth of impactful, (DMOs) who can provide immenseAlberta, particularly in Edmonton, and local knowledge and logisticalthe flow-on effects have just culturally rich and values-aligned support: Coming from a DMO inbeen incredible. destinations that check all the boxes Yellowknife, there were plenty ofTheres a ton of opportunity towhile building a stronger business times when wed find out about bighave events in Canada like that, whichevent industry at home.events happening in the city after the fact, when we could have been working with them from the get-go to connect them with different economic, social or cultural organizations on the ground, says Walton.Collaborating with destination reps can also help groups make a net positive impact on their destination of choice. Take Vancouvers social procurement program, says Walton. Through that, you have a laundry list of local suppliers you can work with to support your event, whether its linking into sustainable food sourcing or food recycling programs, finding socially and locally sourced promotional items or connecting with low-cost suppliers who are focused on sustainability. That all stems from working with DMOs or DMCs [destination management companies] at an early stage to find what matters for your event.BOLSTERING LOCAL ECONOMIESOne of the perks of taking a group to Canada is the opportunity to invest in ones backyard. According to estimates, Canadas meeting and events sector supports over 240,000 jobs and generates around $47 billion in economic activity.In addition to boosting local markets, however, Canadian events have a tendency to leave a lasting impact. Its about leaving a legacy, adds Walton. And not just the economic impact legacy, but also the social, cultural and environmental one as well. Destination Canada is in the process of conducting a study of Canadian events to bring attention to these legacies, and as Walton Spring/Summer 2025 CORPORATE MEETINGS & EVENTS 19'