While every effort will be made to adhere to the published schedule, the organizers reserve the right to modify the event program, including panels and speakers, without prior notice. Such changes will not entitle attendees to any compensation or refund.
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.
Canada is experiencing rare momentum on internal trade, with governments advancing mutual recognition, labour mobility, and regulatory alignment. This discussion will focus on turning commitments into sustained action: closing the gap between announcements and on-the-ground experience, accelerating implementation, and ensuring recent gains are durable.
As Canada navigates a defining period for the federation, the panel will also reflect on how continued progress on internal trade can reinforce economic resilience and national cohesion.
A timely opportunity to celebrate recent wins, assess what remains unfinished, and chart a path forward for a more integrated, competitive, and unified Canadian economy.
Participating delegates will exchange policy ideas with provincial ministers.
This year's Summit will boast several opportunities for connection and dialogue with industry professionals, thought leaders, and decision-makers.
Strengthening Ontario communities is an economic imperative and a leadership opportunity for business. As downtowns, labour markets, and social systems face mounting pressure, this panel will explore how business leaders are moving beyond reactive responses to take coordinated, place-based action that drives long-term growth.
Leaders will share how businesses are stepping forward— through advocacy, but also direct investments, workforce development, local procurement, and partnerships with governments and community organizations—to revitalize communities, strengthen local economies, and restore confidence.
This discussion will focus on what it takes to move from intention to impact: scaling what works, coordinating efforts across organizations, and embedding business leadership in the long-term prosperity of Ontario’s communities
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.
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.
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.
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.
