Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Two-day conference for Canadian MSPs, MSSPs, VARs, and IT channel partners addressing economic disruption, tariffs, and technological change.
- Cybersecurity programming covers the Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem and resilience strategies described as “Left of Boom and Right of Boom.”
- AI sessions focus on practical adoption for managed services, including pre-day workshops on AI Digital Twins.
- Agenda shaped by leading Canadian MSPs with emphasis on peer-to-peer learning over vendor presentations.
- Sponsors include Sophos, Acronis, Bitdefender, Pax8, Lenovo, CIRA, and CyberQP.ai.
About the Event
ChannelNEXT26 West is a two-day conference taking place October 26 to 27, 2026, in Vancouver, BC. Organized by eChannelNEWS, the event brings together the Canadian managed services provider community and broader IT channel ecosystem. The format includes main stage sessions, workshops, mastermind peer groups, an expo hall, vendor pitches, and networking receptions.
Cybersecurity and AI Focus
Cybersecurity content addresses managed security services and the Cybersecurity Defense Ecosystem, with sessions structured around pre-incident and post-incident resilience. AI programming examines practical impacts on MSP operations, digital transformation, and automation. Pre-conference workshops include AI Digital Twin training and mastermind group sessions for executive-level participants.
Business and Operational Topics
Sessions address business resilience, leadership development, and risk management in the context of North American tariff pressures and economic uncertainty. Additional programming covers client retention, sales enablement, digital marketing, and mental health management for MSP professionals. The agenda prioritizes actionable strategies for scaling operations and improving profitability.
Who Should Attend
The event targets MSPs, MSSPs, VARs, IT solution providers, and channel partners, particularly those in senior leadership roles including CEOs, CTOs, presidents, owners, and directors. Sales, marketing, and technical leaders within IT service organizations will find relevant content. Vendors, distributors, and technology partners supporting the MSP ecosystem are also part of the intended audience.