2026 Ontario Economic Summit

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.

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.

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.

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

From Dialogue to Action: 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.

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.

Ontario Strong and Intelligent: AI Sovereign Capability and Growth

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.

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.

The Economic Outlook

One of the summit’s signature sessions, Economic Outlook will provide an authoritative assessment of the economic trends, risks, and opportunities shaping Canada’s future. Gain valuable insights into inflation, interest rates, investment, productivity, and the broader forces influencing business decisions in the years ahead.

Life Sciences: Powering Ontario’s Next Growth Frontier

Ontario’s life sciences sector is a global leader in research, innovation, and commercialization. This discussion will explore how the province can accelerate growth, attract investment, strengthen domestic capabilities, and improve outcomes through greater collaboration between industry, academia, healthcare partners, and government.

Decision Point: A Conversation on Canada’s Future

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.