The Beedie School of Business will organize the 2026 AIB-Canada Chapter Conference at Simon Fraser University
Conference Theme: "Global Strategy, Sustainability, and Mobility in a Changing World Order"
Date: May 22-23, 2026
Geopolitical rivalry, technological competition, and pressures for clean energy transition are redefining the international business environment for multinational enterprises. Governments are exerting stronger influence over corporate behavior through techno-nationalism and strategic industrial policies-ranging from investment incentives to export restrictions-marking a shift away from liberal economic models toward a new era of economic statecraft. These transformations create both challenges and opportunities, reshaping how firms invest, innovate, and collaborate across borders. They have profound implications for the global mobility of capital, technology, and talent amid rising protectionism, regionalization, and environmental constraints. On the human side of international business, advances in technology, coupled with increasing restrictions on labour market mobility, are inviting a fundamental rethinking of how work is conducted on a global scale. Leading across countries in a way that fosters innovation and resilience demands navigating pluralistic values and contested narratives in hybrid work settings.
This conference explores how geopolitical rivalry, state intervention, and sustainability imperatives intersect to reshape multinational strategy and global talent management. We particularly welcome research examining the cross-border investment, innovation, and environmental implications of these global shifts, as well as studies focused on strategic industries such as new energy, high technology, and critical minerals. Further, we welcome submissions that examine the evolving landscape of global talent management in the face of growing uncertainty and intensifying political, social, and cultural polarization, whilst also addressing the need for decent, meaningful work and sustainable careers.
Conference Venue
Downtown Vancouver - Wosk Centre for Dialogue or Segal Graduate School, Beedie School of Business, Simon Fraser University (To be updated)
Vancouver is consistently ranked among the world's most livable and globally connected cities-an inspiring setting for exploring the intersection of geopolitics, clean energy, and international business. Framed by the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, the city blends natural beauty with a vibrant, innovative, and multicultural environment. As Canada's gateway to the Asia Pacific, Vancouver stands at the forefront of global trade, clean technology, and sustainability leadership.
Simon Fraser University's Beedie School of Business is internationally recognized for its commitment to research and engagement in global business, innovation, and sustainability. Its downtown campus embodies Beedie's mission to connect research, learning, and impact and provides the ideal venue for hosting the AIB Canada Chapter 2026 Conference.
Submissions
AIB-Canada Chapter conference will have three tracks:
Competitive Papers
We welcome papers that address the conference theme as well as broader topics in international business. From these submissions, a "Best PhD Student Paper" will be selected.
Panels
The conference will feature interactive panel discussions bringing together academics, business leaders, and policymakers to examine the strategic, technological, and institutional implications of geopolitical rivalry and the clean energy transition.
Paper Development Workshops
PDWs will be led by senior scholars and JIBS, JIBP and other IB journals' editorial board members to offer constructive feedback for early-stage research.
Key Dates
Paper Submission Deadline January 30, 2026
Acceptance Notifications February 24, 2026
Presenter Registration Deadline March 17, 2026
Conference Dates May 22–23, 2026
Conference fees
Registration Cost: Faculty – USD 170 (The registration fee covers 3 coffee breaks and 2 lunches.)
PhD students – USD 170 (The registration fee covers 3 coffee breaks and 2 lunches. Fee waivers may be available)
All (faculty and PhD students) need to be AIB members.
Registration link: TBA
Hotel Information: TBA
Contact
For questions, please contact:
Cagdas Kilic
Beedie School of Business, Simon Fraser University
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Steven Liang
Assistant Professor
York University
Toronto ON
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