Day 1: Thursday, October 15
Opening Remarks: Day 1
Ken Beattie, Executive Director of the BC Craft Brewers Guild, opens BC Beer Con 2026 with a welcome and an overview of the conference ahead.
Willing to Fail – How Failure Can Be Your Key to Success
Success rarely follows a straight path—and some of the biggest breakthroughs begin with failure. In this inspiring keynote, entrepreneur Brian Scudamore shares how embracing setbacks, taking smart risks, and learning from failure can become the foundation for lasting succes.
Networking and Refreshment Break: 10:30– 11:00
NETWORKING & REFRESHMENT BREAK SPONSOR
Industry Update: Advocacy
One on One with Erin McEwan, Interim General Manager and CEO of BCLDB.
TRADE SHOW: 11:45 – 6:00 PM
LUNCH BREAK: 11:45 – 1:45
LUNCH SPONSOR
BREWING
Why This Beer? – live
Join the hosts of the Why This Beer? Podcast for a live roundtable discussion exploring the science and techniques behind today’s hazy beers.
HOSPITALITY
Success via the BC Ale Trail
Gillian, Social Media & Community Manager for the BC Ale Trail, hosts a panel discussion with breweries that have successfully leveraged the BC Ale Trail to increase their visibility and attract more visitors.
REFRESHMENT BREAK: 2:30 – 2:45
REFRESHMENT BREAK SPONSOR
COMMERCIALIZATION
Creating Value through Promises Consistently Kept
Growth starts with a stronger brand.
Learn how making—and keeping—a clear promise to customers drives lasting success.
Industry Mingler
Networking reception on the Trade Show floor with craft beer and appetizers. Meet your industry suppliers and fellow brewery staff.