2023 Economic Development Youth Summit
For youth ages 18-30!
2023 Economic Development Youth Summit
Highlights video
2023 Youth Summit Delegates
2023 Youth Summit Delegates with Mentors
2023 EDYS Individual Award Winners:
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Mover and Shaker Award: Gabe Isaac |
Outstanding Delegate Award: Betty Pewapsconias |
2023 Group Awards
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First Place Group Presentation: |
Running River
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Second Place Group Presentation: |
Ironstone Developments
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Third Place Group Presentation: |
Indigenous Roots Canada
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2023 EDYS Photo Gallery Here!!
Confirmed Speakers/Presenters List
for 2023!
August 14-17, 2023
Grey Eagle Resort, TsuuT'ina Nation, Alberta

Lobby at Grey Eagle Hotel and Resort
MC: Michelle Nieviadomy
Michelle Nieviadomy
read bio
What is the EDYS?
The Economic Development Youth Summit is designed for First Nations, Métis, Inuit and non-Indigenous Youth from across Canada within the age group of 18-30 years old. The Summit will promote the field of Community Economic Development and the role of the Economic Development Officer to youth.
Delegates will explore careers as EDOs by working on case studies in small groups on activities related to Community Economic Development. Each group can design and present an economic development initiative. Each presentation is judged based on innovation, feasibility, and sustainability. Participants are required to consider the social, economic, and environmental impacts of their project, risk mitigation, resource management and environmental stewardship. Although the process will be abbreviated, it will provide delegates with a hands-on overview of the work that an EDO does.
Each year we receive many applications, but only 50 delegates will be invited to participate - as selected by our conference organizing team!
Who can attend?
Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, Inuit) and non-Indigenous youth (18-30 years) from throughout Canada!
• No prior experience in economic development required, just willingness to learn!
Free Registration, Travel, Accommodation, and Meals:
All selected youth delegates will be provided with free travel ( to and from the event host hotel) + accommodation + meals ... thanks to the generosity of Cando and the event sponsors!
Delegate expectations:
• Delegates need to commit themselves to the full Youth Summit from August 14-17, including travel days to attend.
• Presentation on Case Study-group format at Youth Summit conclusion.
• Group challenge time allotted, however, flexibility expected for group working time.
Watch the highlights videos for 2022 EDYS!
Delegate Benefits:
• Youth Summit Certificate of Completion
• NVIT course credit - free of charge, suitable for an Indigenous Economic Developer Certification
• Networking! Meeting like-minded youth from across Canada
• Awards: “Mover and Shaker” and “Outstanding Delegate”
• Prizes! Case Study presentation prizes!
• Chance to participate on the next year’s EDYS Planning Committee
Application:
Applications are now closed!
Final Youth Summit Agenda is here!
Download PDF file.
Selected delegates will be contacted for next steps!
Thank you to the 2023 Youth Summit
Partners and Sponsors:
In Partnership with:
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Platinum
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keyera.com |
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jedinb.ca |
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Gold
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edc.ca |
www.nutrien.com |
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fcc-fac.ca |
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Silver
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acosysconsulting.com |
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