After a wildfire and smoke season, water restrictions, and drought once again tested North Okanagan businesses in 2026, this session helps owners prepare for future disruptions, rather than simply react when they happen.

Presented by Colin O’Leary, Principal of O’Leary & Associates and author of the Community Futures BC Business Continuity Plan toolkit.

Drawing on the Community Futures BC Business Continuity Plan toolkit and his firsthand experience leading the economic recovery plan following the 2021 Lytton wildfire, Colin O’Leary will walk participants through a practical, step-by-step framework for protecting their business before, during, and after an emergency.

Participants will leave with a working knowledge of how to build their own continuity plan, and practical guidance on 7 practical strategies they can implement, starting today.

Whether your business faced disruption this year or you want to be ready before it does, this session offers a concrete starting point.

Format: Virtual (Microsoft Teams link will be sent to participants)

Duration: 90-minute presentation plus 30-minute Q&A

Hosted by Community Futures North Okanagan and the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce as part of Small Business Week 2026.