Why Attend
Capitalize on the largest, most exciting consumer market in the world.
China’s middle class is already around the size of the entire population of Canada and U.S. combined and expected to double by 2020. They're discerning. They want high-quality, imported products and international tourism experiences. And they're looking for them online.
Jack Ma built Alibaba into the world's largest online and mobile commerce company by focusing on helping small businesses succeed. Learn about his vision to help Canadian businesses and from other Alibaba executives, leading experts, and business owners like you who are tapping into the China opportunity.
Connect with people from Alibaba and its ecosystem of partners.
Alibaba Group is helping Canadian businesses tap into the e-commerce enabled Chinese economy. This inspiring event will provide you with the tools, information, and network of experts and partners you need to access this fast-growing consumer market looking for imported products and fresh food as well as Canadian tourist experiences.
Get inspired. Gain clarity. Seize the opportunity.
Any company can be a global company. Meet the small businesses, brands, and agribusinesses who have already found success by connecting to China.
What To Expect
Inspirational Keynotes
Prime Minister Trudeau, Jack Ma and special guests will share their personal stories, lessons learned and advice on how to grow your business by taking advantage of new market opportunities.
Customizable Program
Learn about China consumer insights and trends specific to your industry. Whether it be fashion, everyday goods, fresh food or travel & hospitality, we will help you find the business solution that's right for you.
Marketplace Expo
Alibaba and its network of partners and solution providers in e-commerce, marketing, payments, sourcing and logistics are ready to help you grow your business in China. Have fun networking with potential partners and learning from the experts.
Customer Stories
Hear directly from Alibaba customers who've already found success selling to the world's largest middle class.
Who Should Attend
- Brands and small businesses interested in selling directly to China's consumers or through agents or distributors
- Agribusinesses who want to sell fresh food, packaged food or agricultural products to China’s consumers
- Travel or hospitality companies interested in attracting Chinese tourists
- Entrepreneurs who want to start or grow their businesses by connecting to Chinese suppliers
Event Info
September 24
2:00 – 5:00 P.M.
Registration Open
Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place, Hall A & B
September 25
6:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Registration Open
Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place, Hall A & B
8:30 – 11:15 A.M.
Keynote Program
Master of Ceremonies: Michele Romanow, “Dragon” CBC's Dragons' Den | Co-Founder, Clearbanc
FAQ
Whom can I contact for media coverage?
Please contact Sharon Chan (Sharon.chan@alibaba-inc.com) for any media or press inquiries.
Who can attend Gateway '17?
Any Canadian business looking to sell to China, source from China or attract Chinese tourists. Service providers looking to facilitate trade with China are also welcome to attend.
What does my registration fee cover?
- Opening Keynote
- Breakout Sessions
- Evening Event
- Meals
Travel and hotel costs are the responsibility of the attendee.
I'm on a tight budget. Are there discount programs?
Early Bird registration is C$250 before September 1. After September 1 the fee will go up to C$500.
What are the guidelines for group discounts?
Due to demand, there are no group discounts.
What meals are hosted by the conference?
The following meals are hosted:
- Bagels and coffee breakfast
- Refreshments at morning and afternoon breaks
- Catered lunch
- Final reception
May I bring a guest?
All attendees must purchase a pass.
When will the session schedule be available?
The session schedule is evolving as the attendee list becomes further defined.
How many attendees are expected at Gateway ‘17?
We expect 500 attendees.
Are there penalties for cancelling my event registration?
Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to Gateway17@gpjreg.com and received by the Gateway ’17 Registration Support Center according to the following schedule.
- Requests received on or before September 1, 2017: Full refund
- Requests received on or after September 1, 2017: No refund (No-shows are ineligible for refunds)
How do I make changes to my registration information?
To make changes to your registration, you will need your business email address used to register and confirmation number to access your registration here. Then choose the “modify” button on top of page to make changes.
If I cannot attend, may I substitute someone from my organization?
Attendee substitutions from the same company may be made any time at no charge but must be made in writing. Substituting registration status to an individual outside of your company will not be permitted. We cannot guarantee a housing substitution.
Substitution requests must be received via email from the original attendee requesting cancellation of their registration and include the name of the person (from the same company) who will be taking their place, as well as their email address. Please send to Gateway17@gpjreg.com.
Need Hotel Accommodations?
Below you’ll find a list of hotels around the Enercare Centre. In order to check hotel availability and rates please contact the hotel directly at the numbers below.
- Chelsea Hotel Toronto C$339/1-416-595-1975
- Fairmont Royal York C$509/1-416-368-2511
- Hilton Toronto C$329/1-416-869-3456
- Hyatt Regency Toronto C$339/1-416-343-1234
- Westin Harbour Castle C$328/1-416-242-7400
Will the Gateway team make my hotel reservation?
No, attendees are responsible for making their own hotel reservations.
Can I add a hotel reservation if I did not book during the event registration process?
Yes.
How can I cancel or change my hotel reservation?
You must call the hotel directly for all changes to reservations including cancellation.
What happens if I do not check in on my scheduled arrival date?
You must contact the hotel directly, Gateway ’17 will not be responsible for any hotel changes.
If I am not ready to register for Gateway ’17, but would like to book my hotel, may I do so?
Yes.
Can I contact the hotel directly to make a hotel reservation or changes to my reservation?
Yes.
Where is Enercare Centre?
100 Prince’s Boulevard, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3, Canada.
Enercare Centre is situated in Toronto, Ontario, on the grounds of historic Exhibition Place. It is one of world’s most environmentally responsible exhibition and convention centres with a LEED Gold Certification. The stunning waterfront centre is conveniently located just 1 mile from Toronto’s Billy Bishop airport, and is easily accessible by car from Lakeshore Blvd., or Toronto’s public transit network.
Which airport should I fly into?
Toronto International Airport. The airport is 22 kilometers from the Centre.
Is there parking at the Enercare Centre?
There are 6,450 parking spaces, including 1,300 underground in the Enercare Centre.
Hours of operation for Enercare Centre parking garages may vary depending upon the event needs. Enercare Centre/Gateway ’17 is not responsible for items left in cars parked in the Enercare Centre garages.
Will transportation be provided to and from the airports?
Transportation will not be provided to or from the airports.
What is the typical weather in late September in Toronto?
Typical Toronto weather in late September is 68-75 degrees during day, mid-high 50s in evening.
Is there a dress code for the conference?
The dress code for Gateway ’17 is business casual.
What if I still have a question that wasn’t answered?
Please contact Registration Support below for all general inquiries – we are happy to help.
Registration Support
Toll Free +1-866-382-7145
International +1-650-416-8684
Email Registration Support
If I'm a prospective Alibaba customer, whom should I contact?
We will have match-making sessions throughout the conference floor to support and coach you on next steps to growing your business through the China opportunity. Please contact Raphael Lanfant at raphael.lanfant@alibaba-inc.com for inquiries.
