The Call for Proposals is now open. 

From IT staff and security professionals to managers and executives, CONNECT 2027 provides a platform to share ideas, showcase innovations, and contribute to solutions that advance our community.

Our Summit program is enriched by the collective expertise of our diverse member community, comprising of 25 member institutions including and research institutes. Your contributions play an important role in shaping this collaborative event!

We encourage you to review the information below before preparing your proposal. The deadline for proposal submissions is February 12, 2027, at 12:00 PM. For any questions regarding the program or Call for Proposals, please contact proposals@bc.net.

  • Proposal Partner Program *NEW*

    We recognize that great ideas come from institutions of all sizes. To help broaden participation and encourage diverse perspectives, we are introducing a Proposal Partner Program.

    If you have a presentation idea but would benefit from collaborating with a peer from another institution, we're here to help. Our organizing team can facilitate connections with colleagues from member institutions who may be able to contribute subject matter expertise, share complementary experiences, or provide support in developing a conference proposal.

    Simply indicate your interest in finding a proposal partner, and the Program Committee will work with BCNET, member CIOs and institutional contacts to identify potential collaborators. Whether you're looking to co-present, strengthen a proposal, or share a broader sector perspective, we encourage you to reach out. Some of the most valuable conference sessions come from collaboration across institutions.

    Need a proposal partner? Contact us at proposals@bc.net.

  • Eligibility

    The call for proposals is open exclusively to BCNET Members, other Canadian post-secondary institutions, and partners of the National Research & Education Network. Priority will be given to member-led sessions. Vendors seeking speaking opportunities may participate only through select sponsorship levels. 

  • Important Dates
    • February 12, 2027: Deadline for submission of session proposals (12:00 PM)
    • February 23, 2027: Summit Program Committee reviews proposals
    • February 26, 2027: Speakers notified of acceptance
    • March 5, 2027: Deadline for speakers to confirm acceptance
    • March 10, 2027: Speakers notified of session schedule
    • April 14-16, 2027: Summit Dates
  • Tracks and Learning Paths

    Your opportunities for learning and sharing are organized into 6 Track Themes.

    The BCNET CONNECT Summit Program Committee have recommended programming and content ideas within each track to help guide you in developing your speaking proposal. Be sure to visit each track for content suggestion details.

  • Proposal Evaluation Criteria

    The BCNET CONNECT Summit Program Committee will evaluate all session proposals based on the following criteria:

    • Quality of Written Proposal
    • Relevance to Conference and Track Themes
    • Value, Innovation and Problem-Solving
    • Ability to Inspire Action and Impact 
  • Presentation Formats

    To deliver a truly memorable experience, it is important to involve participants and make them part of your session. Try one of these interactive presentation ideas to engage your audience. 

    Interactive Speaker Presentation - 45 minutes
    • Present content in a span of 30 minutes, with the remaining 15 minutes focusing on an interactive discussion with the audience.
    • Can be storytelling, more conversational. 
    Debate - 45 minutes 
    • Facilitate a 45-minute session consisting of 2 panels with opposing perspectives, focusing on a thought-provoking topic. 
    Multi-Campus Viewpoint Panel Discussion - 45 minutes
    • Create a panel consisting of individuals from multiple campuses who engage in a conversation revolving around current challenges, solutions and lessons learned. 
    Roundtable Discussion - 45 minutes
    • Present a specific topic to the group for discussion.
    • Each attendee is given the opportunity to participate and provide their comments. 
    Speaker Presentation - 45 minutes
    • Present on a topic of your choice for 35-40 minutes, allowing for a Q&A at the end. 
    AMA Session - 45 minutes
    • AMA or “Ask Me Anything” sessions are based purely on an audience asking questions to a one or multiple speakers.
    • They are a great way to present your attendees with a whole session experience that is dedicated to asking important questions. 
    Fireside Chat - 45 minutes
    • A more intimate take on presentations where a moderator interviews a guest to allow the conversation to flow naturally. 
    Pre-Conference Workshops
    • BCNET is also accepting proposals for half or full-day workshops that will take place on April 13, 2027, Tuesday at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre.
    • A separate registration fee applies to attend a workshop.
  • Top 3 Reasons to Become a CONNECT Speaker
    1. Foster Collaboration: The CONNECT Summit thrives on collaboration, and your involvement will play a part in our success. Your insights and expertise can contribute to a productive exchange of ideas among member institutions.
       
    2. Gain Peer Recognition: Whether you're in the early stages of exploring a new technology, or have successfully implemented an innovative solution, your insights are valuable to peers who can learn from your experience.
       
    3. Build Your Professional Network: Speakers have a chance to connect with like-minded people at CONNECT 2027.