Encore Canada Presents… The People Who Power Events Grant & Internship Program Whether you’re just entering the business events industry or ready to take the next step in your career, the right opportunity can open doors. That’s why Encore Canada created The People Who Power Events—an initiative that helps event professionals access the education, experiences and connections that spark career growth. From industry memberships and conferences to internships and professional development, it’s all about investing in the people who will shape the future of business events. “At its core,” says David Campbell, Managing Director, Canada, “this program refl ects a simple belief: when people thrive, the industry thrives.” What inspired Encore Canada to create this program? “We see it as the next step in our long-standing commitment to supporting the business events industry. While we have always invested in the industry through sponsorships, partnerships and professional associations, we wanted to create a program that directly invests in the people who make our industry thrive. Through greater access to professional development opportunities, we hope to recognize individual contributions, support career growth and help build the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of Canada's business events industry.” Madeleine Bart, Vice-President, Global Brand & Direct Customer Marketing Why is it important to invest in event professionals? “When professionals have access to education, mentorship, industry experiences and stronger professional networks, they bring new ideas, skills and opportunities back to their organizations and communities. Those investments help strengthen the entire industry and create pathways for future talent to enter and thrive—and a strong business events sector drives economic growth, supports jobs and creates opportunities for people and communities alike. We want students, planners, venue professionals and industry partners to see a future for themselves in this fi eld and have opportunities to grow within it. No single organization can build that future alone. It requires collective investment, and we are proud to play a small part in helping move the industry forward.” David Campbell, Managing Director, Canada What impact do you hope the program will have? “The true value of these opportunities isn’t the experience itself: It’s the confi dence, connections and momentum they create. Our hope is that this program shines a light on the many people whose work often happens behind the scenes but who play an essential role in bringing events to life. We also hope it inspires recipients to pay it forward and encourages greater recognition of the value our industry creates—not only for businesses and organizations, but for communities, local economies and the many careers that depend on a thriving events sector. The lasting legacy of this initiative will be a more connected, more accessible and more supportive industry for the next generation of business events professionals.” Krista Cameron, Vice-President, Industry Relations & Business Development, Canada Future Starts Here This is your chance to deepen your involvement, grow your confi dence or make a bigger impact on the industry! The People Who Power Events program off ers two streams of support: 1. The Encore Canada Industry Growth Fund: Each of the selected grant recipients can use the funding to support industry association memberships, conference and event registrations, professional development, education or other career-building opportunities. 2. Be the Next Encore Intern: Students can apply for a paid internship with Encore Canada, gaining hands-on experience, industry connections and career-launching skills. To enter, tell us how this opportunity would help you learn, connect and contribute. Your Scan the QR code to learn more and to apply!