Are you a French entrepreneur or business owner operating in Western Canada? The EFE International initiative is designed specifically to support the growth of French-owned businesses abroad.

To help you navigate the available resources, a series of webinars is being held to present concrete opportunities, including:

• The V.I.E. Program: How to recruit young talent to grow your local team.

• Financing Solutions: Access to solidarity and investment funds.

• A Catalog of Experts

• The EFE Label: Gain recognition as a key player in the French economic presence abroad.

Upcoming Webinar Sessions:

• February 24, 2026 at 9 AM (Paris time) -> Join the session

• February 26, 2026 at 8:30 AM PST (17h30 Paris) -> Join the session

• March 24, 2026 at 9 AM (Paris time) -> Join the session

• March 26, 2026 at  8:30 AM PST (17h30 Paris) -> Join the session

Session length: 45 minutes; Language: French

[Register here to join a session] 

Stay connected with the CCIFWC as we continue to bring these global resources to our local Vancouver and Western Canadian community.

If you have any questions, please contact Guillaume Cruciata.

• 
  
  March 11, 2026: 7:30-9:30 PST (presentation 8-9:30)

  Live at Gowlings WLG, 2300-595 Burrard and on-line

  This second hybrid seminar from the CCIF Canada West’s People and Culture Committee focuses on Canadian employment law with comparisons to the French context. This seminar will offer:
  a) Both in person and on-line attendance options; 
  b) Coverage of employment laws in Canada outside of Quebec.  As most Canadian employment legislation is provincial and many French employers operate in more than one province, this provides attendees with broader coverage;
  c) Practical tips and information that attendees can use as managers and business owners operating in Canada and as employees themselves.

1. The format of this English language seminar will allow for questions during the presentation (including in French if requested) and an opportunity for more questions at the end.

               The Speakers

   The seminar will be led by senior bilingual employment lawyer J. Geoffrey Howard of Howard Employment Law who has spent 37 plus years advising employers and employees, including many from France. The French legal perspective will be provided by Gaëlle LeBreton, a labour and employment partner with our host firm Gowling WLG’s Paris office. Practical insights about how Canadian employment laws apply in reality will come from Franck Palomba, Managing Director for Zodiac Hurricane Technologies, who has managed teams in both Canada and France.

               Seminar Topics

   Some of the topics to be covered include:
   1. How Canada mandates social security coverages which are less generous in some areas, such as pensions, or not funded by employer and employee contributions, such as basic healthcare, which dramatically reduces “overhead” costs of employees in Canada to employers and deductions from employees’ pay when compared with France.
   
   2. The greater bargaining power enjoyed by Canadian “all employee” unions;
   
   3. The more modest regulation of working hours relative to the “35 heures” regime in France along with the cost of having employees working “overtime” in Canada;
   
   4. The significantly greater flexibility employers enjoy to terminate (non-unionized) employees in Canada along with the sometimes high cost of severance. Attendees will also learn how employment agreements can clarify and reduce those severance costs.
   
   5. The challenges of enforcing non-compete and other post-employment restrictions in Canada which lacks framework legislation on this topic.

•             Who Can/Should Attend

  This seminar is open to members of CCIF CW and also members of the CCIF  of Toronto. On-line is free to these groups with a $10 charge to cover costs for in person attendees.

  Non-members can also attend for slightly higher costs: $10 on-line and $20 in person.

  Here is the link to register for this event: https://ccifwesterncanada.com/event-6521577

  This seminar provides valuable insights to:
  a) Entrepreneurs who have or will be hiring employees as they launch or expand their business;
  
  b) Managers who need to hire, manage and terminate employees in Canada;
  
  c) French firms looking to expand into Canada; and
  
  d) Employees who want to understand how Canadian employment laws work and better understand their rights.

Please pass this article on to others you know who may want to attend.

See you on March 11!

- Geoffrey Howard, Partner and Principal at Howard Employment Law

Executive Director – Chamber of Commerce and Industry France Western Canada (CCIFWC)

Location: Vancouver, BC (Hybrid)

Reports to: President & Board of Directors

Term: Part-Time, Executive

Apply by: February 15, 2026

Salary: >50k + bonuses

The Opportunity

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry France Western Canada (CCIFWC) is the official bridge between French and Canadian business communities across British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. As part of the global CCI France International network, CCIFWC plays a strategic role in supporting cross-border trade, investment, and market entry between France and Western Canada.

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for international trade and the Western Canadian business landscape?  The CCIFWC is seeking a dynamic Executive Director to lead our mission of fostering economic, industrial, and commercial relations between France and Western Canada (BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Yukon, and NWT).

As the face of the Chamber, you will bridge the gap between French innovation and Canadian opportunity, managing everything from high-level diplomatic relations to the creation of premiere business events and ongoing operations.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Operations & Governance

• Execute the Chamber’s strategic plan in close alignment with the Board’s vision, ensuring priorities are translated into actionable initiatives and measurable outcomes.
• Lead and coordinate all day-to-day operations of the CCIFWC, including financial oversight, budgeting, legal compliance, and internal processes, with a hands-on and solutions-oriented approach.
• Act as the operational architect and central coordinator of the Chamber’s activities, overseeing the end-to-end execution of events, programs, and services by aligning stakeholders, partners, and internal resources.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the Board of Directors and the operational team, ensuring clear communication, effective governance, and smooth implementation of strategic and operational decisions.

2. Membership Acquisition & Success

• Drive the growth of our membership base across Western Canada.
• Develop and refine membership tiers to provide high-value market entry support and networking opportunities.
• Foster a "member-first" culture, ensuring retention through consistent value delivery.

3. Events & Service Creation

• Design and execute signature events (Galas, Beaujolais Nouveau, business briefings, trade missions, etc.).
• Oversee the "Soft Landing" and "Business Matchmaking" services for French companies entering the Canadian market and vice versa.

4. Diplomatic & Stakeholder Relations

• Act as a key spokesperson and ambassador for the CCIFWC.
• Cultivate relationships with the Consulate General of France, provincial governments, the global CCI France International and Business France networks.
• Strengthen ties with local Canadian chambers and economic development agencies.

What We Are Looking For

• Bilingualism: Fluency in both English and French is essential.
• Experience: 5+ years in executive leadership, ideally within a non-profit, chamber of commerce, or international business development role.
• Networker Extraordinaire: Proven ability to build high-level partnerships across different cultures and industries.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: You don’t just manage; you create. You see revenue opportunities and service gaps before others do.
• Cross-Border Knowledge: A solid understanding of the CETA (Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement) and the economic drivers of Western Canada.
• Canadian Business Affairs Knowledge: You are knowledgeable on the Western Canadian Business ecosystems and key business stakeholders.

Why Join Us?

• Lead and scale a growing organization at a pivotal moment for France–Canada trade

Take full ownership of CCIFWC’s development, driving strategy, operations, and growth as the Chamber expands its role in Western Canada’s international business ecosystem.

• A hands-on executive role with real decision-making authority

Go beyond representation to actively shape operations, launch new services, optimize revenue streams, and translate strategic vision into concrete, measurable impact.

• Build, connect, and deliver across borders

Work directly with entrepreneurs, executives, and institutions to create practical business opportunities, design high-value programs, and support companies navigating the France–Canada market entry and expansion.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter (in both languages) to engagement@ccifwesterncanada.com with the subject line: "Executive Director Application – [Your Name]".

CCIFWC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

The CCI France International Awards 2026 will take place on Monday, June 22, 2026, at the iconic Pavillon d’Armenonville in Paris.

This flagship international ceremony celebrates companies with proven international success, recognizing excellence in export performance, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and global expansion.

Often referred to as the “Awards of the Awards,” the event brings together companies that were already award winners in 2025 within the CCI France International network, offering them visibility on an international stage.

⏰ Application Deadline: Sunday, February 15, 2026

Who Can Apply?

Companies that were recognized in 2025 by a CCI France International Chamber may apply to the CCI France International Awards 2026.

 Award Categories

Applications are open in six award categories:

• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR / RSE)
• French Entrepreneur Abroad
• Export Performance
• Foreign Company Established in France
• French Company Established Abroad*
• Special Jury Award

 Application Forms: Français | English

*Special Conditions – French Company Established Abroad

This award category recognizes a successful international expansion by a French company, carried out with the support of a CCI France International Chamber.

⚠️ Please note:

• Only one application per Chamber is accepted for this category
• This category does not require a prior local Chamber award

 French Company Established Abroad – Application Form

 CCI France International Chambers – ESG Action Award

(separate applicant group, clearly distinct)

The CCI FI ESG Action Award will be presented on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, during the CCI France International General Assembly. 

 ESG Action Award – Application Form

 2025 Highlights

Discover last year’s edition and the companies recognized in 2025.

 Watch the 2025 Awards Video

 Learn More

Full details about the Awards ceremony and eligibility criteria: 

 Visit the official CCI France International Awards website

Call for Applications: Future On Stage at Maison&Objet (September 2026)

CCI France Western Canada is pleased to relay an open call for applications for Future On Stage, a program dedicated to emerging designers and creative entrepreneurs, taking place during the September 2026 edition of Maison&Objet in Paris.

Future On Stage supports young brands, startups, and design studios in the fields of design, home décor, and lifestyle, with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability.

Selected participants will benefit from:

• A free exhibition space at the heart of Maison&Objet

• International visibility within the global design ecosystem

• Opportunities to connect with media, buyers, and strategic partners

Key information:

• Event dates: September 10–14, 2026

• Location: Paris, France

• Application deadline: March 6, 2026

Learn more and apply:
Future On Stage – Open Call (Maison&Objet)

We encourage members of our community to share this opportunity with young designers, studios, and creative entrepreneurs who may benefit from this program.

As we step into 2026, Canada continues to shine as a top destination for those seeking new opportunities and a fresh start. Among its regions, Western Canada stands out as an exciting prospect for French speakers looking to relocate. Despite a slight reduction in overall permanent resident admissions this year, demand for bilingual French-English professionals remains strong, especially in provinces such as British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories.

In this article, we’ll explore why French-speaking individuals, particularly from France, are increasingly drawn to Western Canada, and how local employers are eager to attract bilingual talent to fill critical roles. The new year brings great opportunities for those ready to make the leap.

1. Canada’s Renewed Focus on Francophone Immigration

Canada’s immigration strategy has long emphasized linguistic diversity, and 2026 is no exception. The federal government, through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), aims to admit 30,267 French-speaking permanent residents, representing 9% of total immigration intake, up from 8.5% in 2025. This steady increase reflects Canada’s commitment to strengthening Francophone communities outside Quebec.

Here’s the key takeaway: while French is highly valued for cultural and community reasons, English remains the dominant workplace language in Western Canada, particularly in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and construction.

2. Where the Jobs Are: Western Canada’s Professional Landscape

French-speaking immigrants who also speak English are well-positioned to thrive in sectors such as:

• Technology: Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, and Saskatoon are tech hubs with a growing demand for skilled professionals.
• Healthcare and Social Services: Urban and rural communities need healthcare workers to serve diverse populations.
• Construction and Skilled Trades: Infrastructure projects across Western Canada are booming, creating opportunities for skilled labour.
• Education: French or bilingual teachers in elementary and secondary schools, and early childhood educators, are in demand.

3. A New Year, A New Beginning

Whether you’re drawn to Vancouver’s vibrant city life, Alberta’s energy sector, Saskatchewan’s prairies, or the majestic landscapes of Yukon and the Northwest Territories, Western Canada offers a wealth of opportunities for bilingual French-English speakers. Your language skills are not just a career advantage, they’re a bridge to thriving in multicultural communities.

2026 is your year to take the leap. Bonne chance in your new journey!

 

About the Author:
This article is brought to you by Sandrine Bunch, Vice-Chair of the People, Leadership & Culture Committee at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry France Western Canada (CCIFWC), dedicated to fostering collaboration between France and Western Canada.

If you’re considering moving to Canada, reach out for expert guidance, valuable resources, and networking opportunities to help you succeed in Western Canada. Bienvenue!

Contact: people@ccifwesterncanada.com

On October 30th, CCI France Western Canada hosted its first Sector Committee event under People, Leadership & Culture, gathering human resources leaders, business executives, global mobility specialists, and internationally trained professionals for a thoughtful discussion on France–Canada Talent Mobility and its role in shaping economic growth across Western Canada.

The hybrid panel brought together diverse perspectives from industry, immigration, and workforce strategy, and highlighted the unique opportunities bilingual and internationally mobile talent bring to organizations navigating growth, innovation, and global competitiveness.

We extend our appreciation to our moderator and panelists:
Julie Dumenc (Aritzia) • Alexandra Veyet (BA Blacktop / VINCI Construction)
Franck Palomba (Zodiac Hurricane Technologies) • Sandrine Bunch (Cerise Immigration)
with opening remarks from Caroline Clark (Hungerford Properties), Committee Co-Chair, and closing insights from Isabelle Vigneault (Anywr Canada).

We also warmly thank Anywr Canada, Howard Employment Law, Terra Breads, and the Consul General of France in Vancouver for their partnership and support.

7 Key Takeaways

1. International mobility is a strategic asset — not a backup plan.
Companies increasingly rely on bilingual and cross-culturally adept talent to support innovation, operational agility, and global collaboration.

2. Bilingualism offers a unique advantage in Western Canada.
French-speaking professionals have access to immigration pathways that are more accessible and flexible, allowing employers to recruit and onboard talent more efficiently.

3. The VIE Program remains a powerful leadership pipeline.
Many organizations shared how VIE placements often lead to long-term employment and strong leadership growth, benefiting both the individual and the company.

4. Effective mobility requires alignment across HR, leadership, and immigration strategy.
When workforce planning, visa pathways, onboarding, and retention planning are coordinated from the start, organizations see stronger outcomes and less friction.

5. Retention begins long before arrival.
Housing support, logistical assistance, cultural adaptation, and workplace mentorship significantly improve integration and long-term engagement.

6. Cost of living in Vancouver remains a challenge — but community support matters.
Belonging, connection, and shared culture are key drivers of retention and well-being.

7. Mobility strengthens organizations — and strengthens people.
Cross-border experience builds resilience, adaptability, empathy, and international leadership capacity.

From Strategy to Human Experience

A particularly resonant moment came when the discussion shifted toward the emotional and human dimension of relocation.
As one panelist shared:

“Mobility is not just a professional transition — it is a human one. Support and empathy are what make the journey successful.”

This theme echoed throughout the conversation: practical planning matters, but belonging is what makes people stay.

Looking Ahead

This event marks the beginning of a deeper series of exchanges led by our Sector Committees:

• People, Leadership & Culture

• Hospitality, Wine & Art de Vivre

• Energy & Natural Resources

• Aerospace

• Tech & Innovation

Each committee aims to bring members together to learn, collaborate, and open new business opportunities across Western Canada and France.

We also launched our new Job Board, where members may post opportunities and candidate profiles during the trial period.
This is one of the many ways we are helping companies and professionals connect talent with opportunity.

Join the Community

Whether you are a business leader, a professional navigating your own international journey, or a company exploring growth across France and Western Canada — we invite you to take part.

Become a member
Join a Sector Committee
Share your voice, your experience, your leadership

Go West to Grow West.

Event slides: CCI France-Canada Talent Mobility 2025OCT30.pdf

There are moments in life and business when the right move isn’t just about opportunity,

it’s about alignment.

For French professionals, entrepreneurs, and companies with an international spirit,

Western Canada offers something few places can: space to breathe, to build, to become.

Not because it’s empty. But because it’s open.

Open to fresh ideas. Open to human connection. Open to new ways of living and working, beyond the fast lanes of global hubs, and outside the expected pathways of international expansion.

It’s not about “going where everyone else is going”. It’s about going where you can grow.

Beyond the Postcard: What the West Really Offers

We all know the image: snow-capped mountains, Pacific waves, glass towers in Vancouver,

the Rockies rising behind Calgary. The beauty is real, but what makes Western Canada compelling for French talent and businesses goes deeper. It’s the mindset.

Here, you’ll find a culture of:

• Pragmatism with heart, where innovation meets humility
• Global curiosity where diversity isn’t a buzzword, it’s a way of life
• Balance where ambition and well-being aren’t seen as opposites

For French professionals, the West can feel like a reset button, a place where you can redefine your own rhythm, in work and in life.

For French Companies: Not Just a Market, a New Frontier

Western Canada is more than a regional economy; it’s a launchpad. Not just into North America, but into new ways of doing business.

This is a region that values:

• Sustainable solutions over short-term wins
• Long-term collaboration over quick deals
• Innovation that serves communities

Whether you’re a French startup in clean tech, a heritage brand in beauty or gastronomy, or an industrial player in energy, Western Canada isn’t just waiting, it’s listening.

The French reputation for quality, creativity and expertise resonates here. But there’s still room to stand out. To be the first. To write a new chapter in your international story.

And thanks to strong local institutions like the Chamber of Commerce and Industry France Western Canada (CCIFWC), you’re not navigating unthinkingly. You’re joining a conversation already in motion.

Time to Build the Bridge Between France and the West

Whether you’re a French professional looking for new career horizons, a business ready to expand or invest abroad, or an entrepreneur looking for a market that supports growth and innovation, look West.

And with the CCIFWC on the ground, you won’t be doing it alone.

Ready to explore new ground? We’re here to help you connect the dots.

Join the Conversation in October

Western Canada should not be viewed as a secondary option but rather as a strategic destination for international mobility and cross-border collaboration.

To explore this important topic further, the People, Leadership & Culture Committee will host a special event on October 30, 2025, focusing on France–Canada mobility with a spotlight on opportunities in Western Canada.

Reach out to us at info@ccifwesterncanada.com, we would love to hear from you.

We're excited to offer our members an exclusive discount on tickets for the upcoming Vancouver Whitecaps FC match!

 Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
 Venue: BC Place Stadium
⚔ Match: Vancouver Whitecaps FC vs. Philadelphia Union

Member Tickets Start at Just $37!

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to enjoy a thrilling match and connect with fellow Chamber members.

Get Your Discounted Tickets Here.

Quantities are limited, so make sure to secure your seats early!

On July 9, 2025, we officially launched CCI France Western Canada with an unforgettable evening of networking, celebration, and vision-sharing. The event brought together members, partners, business leaders, and dignitaries to mark the beginning of a new chapter in Franco-Canadian economic relations.

Thanks to the incredible support of our Prestige Founding Member, RBC, we hosted a reception that was both inspiring and impactful.

We’re excited to share a short video, where you can revisit the words of our speakers, their insights, and their vision for the future of French-Canadian collaboration.

Watch the Highlights Now!