PROGRAM OVERVIEW

We are at a pivotal moment for our province and our country. As businesses and governments navigate geopolitical volatility, economic fragmentation, rapid technological change, and intensifying global competition, Ontario has an opportunity not just to respond—but to lead.

Under the theme of Ontario Strong: Competing with Confidence, the 2026 Ontario Economic Summit (OES) will bring together influential leaders from business, government, academia, and communities to explore how Ontario can strengthen its competitive edge and build lasting prosperity.

Across two days of high-impact conversations, OES 2026 will examine the strategies, partnerships, and bold decisions needed to secure Ontario’s future. It will also provide a platform for leaders to connect and exchange ideas needed to shape a more resilient, innovative, and unified economy.

Join us in Toronto on November 18-19 as we convene the voices and vision needed to ensure Ontario remains strong, competitive, and ready for what comes next.

Early Bird Pricing
OCC Member: $1,249 + HST
Non-Member: $1,549 + HST

Regular Pricing
OCC Member: $1,449 + HST
Non-Member: $1,749 + HST

Partnership Opportunities

Interested in learning more about partnership opportunities for this event? Please contact Ashley Tompkins, Senior Account Manager, OCC, at ashleytompkins@occ.ca.

PROGRAM AT A GLANCE

Here is a preview of some of the conversations you can expect at OES 2026–with additional keynote speakers, panels, and special announcements still to come.

DAY 1

▶ WELCOME REMARKS

• Chief Margaret Sault, Mississauga’s of the Credit First Nation
• Daniel Tisch, President and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce

▶ PANEL DISCUSSION

Building Ontario’s Defence Industrial Base: From Investment to Impact

As global defence spending accelerates, Ontario has a unique opportunity to strengthen its position as a leader in advanced manufacturing, innovation, and national security. This session will explore how the province can attract investment, scale domestic production, and unlock opportunities across defence, aerospace, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Attendees will gain insight into the strategies shaping Canada’s defence future and what they mean for Ontario businesses.

Moderator:

• Stephen Lund, CEO, Toronto Global

▶ PANEL DISCUSSION

One Canadian Economy: Delivering Results on Internal Trade

Canada is making unprecedented progress on breaking down barriers to internal trade. This timely discussion will examine what’s been achieved, what challenges remain, and how governments and businesses can work together to create a more integrated, competitive, and resilient national economy. Explore how regulatory cooperation, labour mobility, and market access can help unlock growth across the country.

Panellists:

• Trevor Tombe, Professor of Economics, University of Calgary
• Daniel Tisch, President and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce

▶ CABINET MINISTER ROUNDTABLES (CLOSED TO MEDIA)

Participating delegates will exchange policy ideas with senior government representatives.

▶ NETWORKING RECEPTION AT ROY THOMSON HALL

This year’s summit will boast several opportunities for connection and dialogue with industry professionals, thought leaders, and decision-makers.

DAY 2

▶ WELCOME REMARKS

• Marilyn Horrick, Senior Vice President, Market Growth, Brand Expansion, & Partner Relations, Desjardins and Board Chair, Ontario Chamber of Commerce

▶ PANEL DISCUSSION

From Dialogue to Action: CEOs Driving Community Prosperity

Strong communities are essential to a strong economy. This conversation will showcase how leading organizations are investing in workforce development, local partnerships, and place-based solutions that strengthen communities while supporting long-term business success. Learn how leadership, collaboration, and innovation are helping build more prosperous and resilient regions across Ontario.

Speaker:

• Ammar AI-Joundi, CEO, Agnico Eagle

▶ FIRESIDE CHAT

Navigating Uncertainty: Building Competitiveness in a Fragmented Global Economy

As economic uncertainty persists, organizations must find new ways to enhance productivity, attract investment, and remain competitive. This fireside chat will explore the trends shaping Canada’s economic outlook and the strategies leaders can adopt to drive growth and resilience in an increasingly fragmented global marketplace.

▶ KEYNOTE & FIRESIDE CHAT

Artificial intelligence is transforming industries, economies, and societies. This session will explore how Ontario can build a globally competitive AI ecosystem while ensuring secure, responsible, and scalable adoption across sectors. From talent and infrastructure to innovation and commercialization, discover how AI can become a cornerstone of Ontario’s economic growth.

Speaker:

• Jim Balsillie, Chair, Canadian Council of Innovators

Moderator:

• Marc E. Ouimette, Affiliated Researcher, Cambridge Bennett Institute & Founder, Cardinal Policy

▶ KEYNOTE ADDRESS

The Future of Research, Talent and Innovation

Universities play a vital role in driving economic growth, developing talent, and advancing breakthrough innovation. This keynote will explore how research institutions, industry, and government can work together to strengthen Ontario’s innovation economy and prepare the workforce of the future.

Speaker:

• Melanie Woodin, President, University of Toronto

▶ KEYNOTE ADDRESS

Capitalizing on the Life Sciences: Positioning Canada Globally, for Economic Prosperity Locally

Explore Ontario’s role in scaling life sciences strengths into national assets that fuel economic growth, protect sovereignty, and improve the health of our population. This session will include findings from Roche and the OCC’s just-released policy primer on accelerating access to healthcare innovation, strengthening Canada’s place as a global leader in clinical trials, and the crucial role of advancing connected data systems.

Speaker: 

• Laura Pagnotta, Vice President, External Affairs, Roche

▶ PANEL DISCUSSION

Life Sciences: Health Innovation: Improving Outcomes, Driving Growth

As governments around the world rethink competitiveness, productivity, and healthcare sustainability, Ontario faces a critical question: are we investing enough in health innovation to improve patient outcomes while strengthening long-term economic prosperity? From life sciences and biomanufacturing to digital health and healthcare delivery, innovation has the potential to improve access to care, enhance health outcomes, reduce pressure on health systems, and support a healthier, more productive workforce. Against a backdrop of increasing international competition, panelists will explore how strategic investments in health innovation can drive economic growth, attract talent and capital, accelerate commercialization, and position Canada as a global leader in life sciences and healthcare innovation.

▶ PANEL DISCUSSION

Point / Counterpoint: A Candid Conversation

Two influential voices. Two distinct perspectives. One critical issue shaping Canada’s future. This dynamic exchange will tackle one of the most important economic or public policy questions facing the country today, offering thoughtful debate, fresh insights, and practical tips for leaders navigating change and uncertainty.

Speakers:

• Hon. Jason Kenney, Senior Advisor Bennett Jones LLP and BMO; Senior Fellow, C.D. Howe Institute
• Hon. Dalton McGuinty, Former Premier of Ontario

▶ CLOSING REMARKS

• Daniel Tisch, President and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce