Top six reasons why you should attend Canadians Connected 2021

First let’s cover off the basics of Canadians Connected. 

What is it? CIRA’s second virtual symposium and annual general meeting (AGM)
What’s this year’s theme? Powered by the internet: doing business in a post-pandemic world
When is it? Thursday, September 23 at 1:00 p.m. ET

One of the legacies of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is the impact of digitization on businesses as they were forced to pivot to online models due to the shift in consumer needs and habits.  Having an online presence went from being a bonus to an absolute necessity. We saw thousands of companies across Canada embrace e-commerce, curb-side pickup, digital platforms, and other new business models that leverage the power of the internet. 

So, at Canadians Connected 2021 we want to celebrate small businesses, the engine of Canada’s economy—accounting for 99.8% of businesses across the country. What do things look like for these businesses on the other side of the pandemic? How can they stay relevant and resilient amidst the new normal with the power of the internet at their fingertips? Have no fear, at the event we’re going to tackle these pressing questions and more. 

If the above isn’t enough to make you register, then the below six reasons will convince you that Thursday, September 23 is a day worth marking down in your calendar. 

1) Exclusive learning opportunities

Our experts will discuss how the business community can (and will) adapt and thrive post pandemic with the power of the internet. Speakers include Michele Romanow, that’s right, the Dragon from CBC’s Dragon’s Den and Co-Founder and President of Clearco, along with Mohamad Fakih, CEO of Paramount Fine Foods & Philanthropist. These industry titans will be part of a fireside chat moderated by entrepreneur and innovation and technology leader, Amber Mac. They’ll discuss how businesses are tackling today’s digital imperative and are using technologies like the internet to respond, reopen and reimagine how they operate and thrive in a post-pandemic world. 

2) Get your business questions answered

Has your business or organization had to pivot online due to COVID-19? We’d be willing to bet your answer is yes! During the fireside chat CIRA members will have the opportunity to type questions and up-vote questions from other participants.      

3) Learn more about CIRA and how we’re improving Canada’s internet

CIRA’s President and CEO Byron Holland, and Helen McDonald, Chair of CIRA’s Board of Directors, will fill you in on the state of Canada’s internet and how CIRA is enabling a trusted internet for Canadians. The need for digital business operations due to COVID-19 has powered a record-breaking year for CIRA. And as proud stewards of the .CA domain registry, it is our responsibility to provide a safe and stable digital platform for Canadians. On top of managing .CA, CIRA develops and offers technologies and services such as CIRA DNS Firewall, CIRA Canadian Shield, CIRA Cybersecurity Awareness Training and our Community Investment Program to help protect and educate Canadians on how to leverage the internet safely and securely. 

4) Get involved in CIRA’s governance

Own a .CA domain? You can register (for free!) to become a CIRA member. There are currently over 15,000 CIRA members who help influence Canada’s digital figure. Not enough of an incentive? CIRA membership offers even more benefits. And don’t forget, CIRA members can vote and ask questions during the AGM portion of Canadians Connected. 

5) Support an important cause

CIRA will donate $10 to United Way Canada on behalf of every person who attends Canadians Connected. Just by showing up, you will help support your local community in a time when it’s needed more than ever. 

6) And last, but not least… it’s free! 

Got your attention now? CIRA member or not, Canadians Connected is completely free to attend. Register now and keep your eye on your inbox for a link to join the webcast the day before the event. 

See you on September 23rd!