The Global Business Forum opened in Banff, Alta., for its 27th year, with “thriving in chaos” as its theme. The annual conference is being held at Banff Springs Hotel in the Rocky Mountains west of Calgary, where its alpine setting contrasts with discussions of international turmoil.

Lois Mitchell, the forum’s co-chair and a former Alberta lieutenant-governor, said participants have rarely seen such upheaval and disruption in the international order. Sessions are set to examine global security, strained Canada-U.S. relations, space travel, artificial intelligence and other topics.

Speakers include Jeremy Hansen, an Artemis II astronaut; Kirsten Hillman, a former Canadian ambassador to the United States; and Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy. Executives from Shell Canada, Canadian National Railway Co. and Telus Corp. are also scheduled to offer their perspectives. The Canadian Press report by Lauren Krugel was first published Sept. 24, 2026.

Based on reporting by CTV News Calgary.