

Trade Workshop- Economic Outlook 2026
Hosted by Edmonton Global in partnership with BDC and the Government of Alberta Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration.
Our speakers
Arnaud Franco, Director of Economic Research at BDC, will share a forward-looking outlook on what Canadian businesses need to know, and do, in a period of continued uncertainty and structural change.
Jennifer Mitok, Director, Trade Competitiveness, Government of Alberta Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration, will present an in-depth analysis of 2025 trade trends along with the outlook for 2026.
Following the presentations, we will host a fireside chat with time for your questions.
We'll cover:
BDC's 2026 economic outlook and what it means for Canadian businesses
How uncertainty and U.S. trade policy are affecting markets, costs and competitiveness
Key insights from BDC's latest economic and business studies
Practical steps to strengthen productivity, diversify markets and build resilience
For: business leaders, exporters and investors in the Edmonton Metropolitan Region making decisions about markets, supply chains and growth.
Moderated by Marlenie Arana, Director, Trade & Export, Edmonton Global
About Arnaud Franco
Arnaud Franco was appointed Director of Economic Research at BDC in January 2024.
He leads a team of brilliant economists, tasked with providing real and actionable insights to Canadian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Additionally, he keeps senior leaders informed about critical developments in the economic landscape.
Mr. Franco has nearly 20 years of analytical experience and a decade of management and leadership training. He is also a seasoned public speaker, having presented at numerous global conferences
About Jennifer Mitok
Jennifer Mitok is Director of Trade Competitiveness with Alberta's Ministry of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration. She leads Alberta's work on trade competitiveness, market intelligence, and U.S. trade policy, providing strategic advice on the impacts of tariffs and other trade measures on businesses, exports, and supply chains.
With more than 20 years of leadership experience in policy, trade, and public affairs, Jennifer has led key initiatives to strengthen Alberta's competitiveness, including advancing trade analytics through use of AI, supporting Alberta's first U.S. trade advocacy mission to the Midwest, and helping reduce interprovincial trade barriers through policy innovation.
Register to join us. Space is limited.