Welcome to the Halifax Convention Centre - where bold ideas meet dynamic spaces! Situated in the vibrant heart of downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia, our venue was honoured to host the 7th biennial and first-ever hybrid Canadian Cancer Research Conference (CCRC) from November 12-14, 2023. With versatile event spaces and state-of-the-art facilities, we specialize in creating memorable experiences. Our contemporary design and proximity to the city's top attractions made us the ideal choice for this prestigious event.
The Canadian Cancer Research Conference 2023 was a landmark event, bringing together 872 attendees from across the cancer research spectrum. This hybrid conference featured both virtual and in-person sessions at our venue, including plenary sessions, concurrent symposia, workshops, lightning sessions, and poster presentations. The program was designed to showcase the breadth and excellence of Canadian cancer research, with a focus on emerging findings and cross-disciplinary discussions.
Why Halifax?
Halifax stands at the forefront of life sciences innovation, making it an ideal host for the Canadian Cancer Research Conference 2023. The city boasts a robust ecosystem of over 100 companies spanning medical devices, digital health, and bioproducts, all supported by a dynamic innovation district.
Home to leading research institutions such as Dalhousie University, the QEII Health Sciences Centre, and the Brain Repair Centre, Halifax fosters groundbreaking research in neurology, cardiology, and cancer studies. This concentration of expertise attracts global partnerships with biotechnology leaders like Pfizer, Merck, and AstraZeneca.
The city's collaborative spirit is further exemplified by organizations like Life Sciences Nova Scotia, which connects industry stakeholders to drive sector growth and innovation. With its strategic location offering seamless access to global markets, a supportive infrastructure, and a community dedicated to advancing health sciences, Halifax provides an inspiring environment for pivotal discussions on cancer research and innovation.
Pre-Event Planning
Collaboration was key to the success of the Canadian Cancer Research Alliance (CCRA) 2023. We worked closely with CCRA to meticulously plan every aspect of the conference:
- Space Transformation: Our flexible rooms were configured to host plenary sessions, breakout discussions, and an engaging exhibition hall.
- Advanced Technology: Equipped with cutting-edge audiovisual equipment and seamless live-streaming capabilities, we ensured a flawless hybrid experience for all participants.
- Accessibility Commitment: Our venue is designed to be fully accessible, ensuring an inclusive environment for all attendees.
We adeptly managed challenges such as coordinating with international speakers and accommodating a hybrid audience, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience for all participants.
Event Execution
Over the course of three days, the Halifax Convention Centre was transformed into a vibrant hub of cancer research innovation:
- Day 1: Attendees were warmly welcomed by our professional staff, setting the stage for productive networking and collaboration.
- Days 2-3: The conference featured a dynamic mix of plenary sessions, concurrent symposia, and interactive workshops. Our on-site technical team ensured all presentations and live streams proceeded without a hitch.
- Culinary Excellence: We provided a diverse array of meal options, catering to various dietary preferences, and ensuring timely service to keep participants energized.
Post-Event Reflection
The feedback from CCRC 2023 was overwhelmingly positive:
- Organizers' Praise: "The Halifax Convention Centre provided exceptional support and facilities, contributing significantly to the conference's success."
- Attendees' Acclaim: "A top-notch venue in a beautiful city— truly an inspiring experience."
The conference achieved its goals of fostering collaboration, showcasing cutting-edge research, and advancing equity in cancer research. Post-event surveys indicated high satisfaction rates, and an eagerness to return to Halifax for future events.
Conclusion
The Canadian Cancer Research Conference 2023 demonstrated that the Halifax Convention Centre is more than just a venue - it's a catalyst for impactful events. With our adaptable spaces, prime location, and dedicated team, we're poised to set new benchmarks for international conferences. We look forward to hosting future events that inspire and drive progress in the global research community.
