The State of Business 2026

Kick off the new year networking with North Vancouver’s business leaders. Connect, learn, and prepare to navigate 2026 with confidence with exclusive insights into current business trends. 

The North Vancouver business community has been responding to many challenges and opportunities this past year. What is the current state of business in North Vancouver? What will the year ahead bring?

Don't miss an engaging and interactive panel discussion at our fifth-annual The State of Business. This event will present a picture of the health and challenges of the North Vancouver business community. 

NOTE: This event always sells out; secure your seat early. 

Keynote Speaker: 

Bryan Yu, AVP & Chief Economist, Central 1 Credit Union
Topic: Economic Update 2026
Bryan Yu is the Chief Economist at Central 1, leading a team focused on macroeconomic and regional analysis for Central 1 and clients across the financial sector. He authors key economic and housing outlooks, provides frequent media commentary and speaks regularly at industry events. Within Central 1, Bryan contributes to risk and treasury committees and leads Central 1’s IFRS9 National Platform business. Prior to Central 1, he held economist roles with the BC Real Estate Association, CMHC, and in academic research.

Panelists:

Amir Aminpour, Franchise Owner, McDonalds North Shore
Amir Aminpour is an electrical engineer with an MBA and over 12 years of entrepreneurial experience, as the founder of an electrical company in Iran specializing in solar energy and LED lighting. In 2013, he immigrated to Canada and transitioned into the hospitality industry as a McDonald’s franchisee. Starting from a single location, his organization now has eight restaurants in North Vancouver, employing a team of more than 350 people. Amir is currently expanding his portfolio to 11 restaurants.


Kevin Hatch, Founder, President, Twin Lions Contracting 
Kevin Hatch laid the foundation for Twin Lions Contracting over 14 years ago as a general contractor.
As the founder and President, Kevin has guided Twin Lions through steady growth. Under his leadership, Twin Lions has been recognized with top regional awards, including Custom Home Builder of the Year at the 2025 CHBA BC Georgie Awards, as well as Custom Home Builder of the Year and Residential Renovator of the Year at the 2025 HAVAN Awards.  Kevin is a Red Seal carpenter, BIV Top Forty Under 40 recipient, and serial entrepreneur.


Jennifer Kom-Tong, Co-Founder, Copperpenny Distilling Co. 
Jennifer Kom-Tong is the co-founder and one of the distillers behind Copperpenny Distilling Co., an award-winning North Vancouver spirits house. Born and raised on the North Shore, Jenn and her husband Jan, both prior BC film industry crew, launched Copperpenny on what started as a dare in 2019 — Copperpenny is now a nationally celebrated distillery producing world-acclaimed spirits, and championing local craftsmanship. Jennifer leads the company’s growth in manufacturing, hospitality, and community engagement,


Gary Mathiesen, CEO, Quay North Urban Development
Gary Mathiesen is the CEO of Quay North Urban Development Corp. (QNU), and its related group of companies. He has been the CFO of several other private and public companies. Upon receiving his CA designation from KPMG, Gary left public practice to move into industry. For over 44 years he has been involved with the QNU group of companies, in the position of CFO and Senior VP, Finance and Administration and, since 2000, the President and CEO.  Gary has had exposure to many industries, including financial services, public companies, computer software development, real estate, property management, sport franchises, ski resort management and development,

PRESENTING SPONSOR


Event Supporters