Creativity, culture, and Indigenous entrepreneurial excellence at Forward Summit West Cost 2026
Forward Summit, a two-day conference held across Canada, offers a unique opportunity to explore collaborative efforts toward one shared goal: advancing Indigenous economic reconciliation. Through engaging panels, roundtable discussions, and meaningful networking opportunities, the Summit brings together leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers committed to driving impact within Indigenous economies and communities.
Beyond the mainstage conversations, attendees can also experience and support Indigenous entrepreneurship firsthand. Throughout the event, participants are invited to shop handcrafted pieces created by a curated showcase of Indigenous artisans and artists, each sharing stories, culture, and creativity through their work.
At Forward Summit West Coast, taking place March 11–12, 2026, at the Pan Pacific Hotel in Vancouver, BC, we are proud to feature various artists who have never before showcased their work at a conference setting. Travelling from diverse and distant communities, these artists bring not only exceptional craftsmanship, but also powerful cultural narratives rooted in their Nations and lived experiences.
Why artists belong at Forward Summit
At the heart of Forward Summit is a commitment not only to conversation, but to action, particularly when it comes to creating platforms that support Indigenous entrepreneurs and uplift cultural expression. One of the most meaningful reflections of that commitment is the Artisan Fair held at each summit. This vibrant marketplace brings together Indigenous makers, offering attendees an opportunity to engage directly with creativity, culture, and commerce. More than just a shopping experience, the Artisan Fair highlights the vital role artists and makers play in strengthening Indigenous economies. It creates space for connection, storytelling, and economic participation, demonstrating that art is not separate from business, but a powerful driver of Indigenous entrepreneurial growth.
Artist Spotlights
Sandra Rideout
Sandra Rideout is an Inuk woman of Nunatsiavut from Happy Valley–Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, and a retired Department of National Defence employee with 30 years of service. She has practiced traditional Inuit sewing and craftsmanship for over 40 years, creating mukluks, sealskin garments, and other cultural pieces inspired by the teachings of her mother, grandmother, and aunt. She shares her knowledge through workshops and school programs across Canada and received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 for her contributions to cultural preservation. Sandra’s artwork can be viewed here.
Kim Ruben
Kim Ruben is from Paulatuk, and moved to Inuvik in 2017, where she still resides. She has been making artwork since 2000. She learned how to sew and make traditional items when she was a child, having been taught by multiple Elders from Paulatuk and other northern communities. Kim sells her artwork locally one-on-one at the Arctic Market in Inuvik and online through Proudly Indigenous Crafts & Designs. In the past, Kim took part in the Great Northern Art Festival, where she enjoyed meeting and chatting with tourists and fellow artists. Kim’s artwork can be viewed here.
Why engaging with the artists matters
By creating space for visibility and connection, the Artisan Fair contributes to tangible economic outcomes for participating artists. In past Summits, artists have secured new business opportunities, including corporate gifting contracts, made valuable industry connections, expanded their customer base, and gained meaningful exposure to new audiences.
Engaging with the artists during the Summit is more than a moment of support; it is an opportunity to invest directly in Indigenous entrepreneurship. Each conversation, purchase, and shared connection helps strengthen sustainable growth within Indigenous creative economies.
Building relationships grounded in respect, and action is how Indigenous economic reconciliation moves from dialogue to reality. When we intentionally support Indigenous artists and makers, we contribute to long-term impact that extends well beyond the event itself.
If you are an Indigenous artist interested in participating in a future Summit, we encourage you to apply here.
Hear from the artists
“When I first began sewing, it was a way to keep my family warm. Over time, the community’s interest in my creations grew, transforming my passion into a source of income. This journey has shown me the profound value of my sewing. My community envelops me with like-minded individuals who have continuously uplifted and supported my journey in the sewing world.
Being selected to attend the Forward Summit is an incredibly humbling experience. Coming from a small northern community in Nunatsiavut, where our artists are not widely recognized, makes this opportunity all the more meaningful.” – Sandra Rideout
“My culture and community deeply influence my work through a strong desire to revitalize what was lost by past generations. That history motivates me to incorporate traditional elements into modern styles, showing that we are resilient and proud to share the uniqueness of our culture today. Economic empowerment is also important to me—I am committed to improving my financial stability, gaining greater control over economic resources, and actively participating in and benefiting from growth opportunities within my community. Attending this summit will inspire me to keep moving forward and encourage other artists to continue creating in our distinctive styles of art and clothing. I am especially inspired by the genuine interest non-Indigenous people show in my culture, which reinforces the importance of sharing it thoughtfully and authentically. The pieces I am bringing reflect a range of expression—from warmth to charm—including my one-of-a-kind moosehide rose, a sensory piece that invites people to see, smell, and reflect on the creativity behind its design.” – Kim Ruben
Join us at Forward Summit 2026. Together, let’s support Indigenous entrepreneurs and strengthen Indigenous economies.
By Keeley Garmory