We’re sharing stories, skills, and stoke
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KORE doesn’t just talk shop; we get things done. Our initiatives are how we turn big ideas into real impact for the Kootenay outdoor economy. From bi-weekly podcasts with outdoor gear industry professionals to monthly, informative webinars our each initiatives are built with member input and grounded in local values. We also do outreach to our members via the exclusive Pathfinder Program.
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The KORE Outdoors Podcast shines a spotlight on the people behind the gear. Each episode features candid conversations with outdoor industry entrepreneurs and innovators, exploring the real challenges and big ideas shaping the future of outdoor gear.
Chris Schabow didn’t plan to run a manufacturing company — he was a nonprofit fundraiser with a sewing machine from Goodwill and a side hustle making backpacking gear. A chance conversation revealed that Enlightened Equipment, the brand he’d been reverse-engineering for years, was operating out of a hole-in-the-wall shop in his own town. What followed was a cold letter, a ghosted coffee meeting, and a leap of faith that cost him his salary, his benefits, and almost his financial stability. Nine years later, he’s CEO. This is the story of how you build your way to the top, one random mishap at a time.
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The KORE Outdoors Speaker Series brings leading voices in design, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and innovation to our community, both virtually and in person. These free sessions are open to members and the public, offering an hour’s worth of inspiration and practical insight from people pushing boundaries in the outdoor industry. Each talk includes a Q&A so you can connect directly with the experts and get answers tailored to your business or creative journey. It’s part learning, part spark, and fully focused on moving the Kootenay outdoor sector forward.
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KORE Outdoors articles dive into what matters most to gear makers and outdoor entrepreneurs in the Kootenays. From how-to guides on product development to member profiles, event recaps, and sustainability tips, each piece is written with our local outdoor economy in mind. The goal? To share ideas, celebrate community wins, and provide helpful resources for anyone building something outdoorsy and awesome. Whether you’re reading up on trends or just want to see what your fellow KORE members are up to, the articles section is your knowledge base.
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KORE Outdoors hosts a dynamic lineup of events that celebrate and support the outdoor gear industry. Each October the KORE Outdoors Summit in Kimberley brings together industry leaders for workshops, panels, and networking focused on outdoor rec-tech manufacturing and design. Additionally, KORE partners with the Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival, showcasing Kootenay-made gear and fostering connections within the global outdoor community. Plus there are multiple festivals, meet-ups, and other in-person events throughout the year.


