OTTAWA — Canada’s capital will host one of the country’s most significant cybersecurity gatherings in 2026. INCYBER Forum Canada has selected Ottawa as the home of its next national edition, scheduled for December 1–3, 2026, at the Rogers Centre Ottawa, with pre-events taking place in Gatineau.
The announcement was confirmed by Ottawa Tourism, working alongside partners across the National Capital Region. Organizers expect the event to attract approximately 4,000 delegates from across Canada, the United States and international markets.
Officials project the conference will generate more than 5,000 hotel room nights and contribute an estimated $5.4 million in economic impact to the Ottawa region.
A growing national platform for cybersecurity and AI safety
INCYBER Forum Canada has established itself as a leading platform focused on cybersecurity, digital trust and artificial intelligence safety. The event brings together senior public and private sector leaders, security professionals, researchers and innovators to address rapidly evolving cyber threats.
Delegates typically include representatives from government departments, defence and military agencies, law enforcement, major enterprises and small to medium-sized technology firms. International delegations are also expected to participate, strengthening cross-border collaboration.
The forum previously took place in Montréal. Moving the event to Ottawa reflects both its expansion and the strategic importance of Canada’s capital within the national security and technology landscape.
Why Ottawa secured the bid
Organisers cited Ottawa’s unique position as a key factor in the decision. The city is home to Canada’s federal government and national institutions, creating direct access to policymakers and security leaders.
In addition, Ottawa’s technology ecosystem continues to grow, particularly in cybersecurity and trusted communications. The Kanata North technology hub supports hundreds of tech companies, while academic institutions contribute applied research and advanced training programs.
The region also offers established conference infrastructure. The Rogers Centre Ottawa provides large-scale event capacity, while the city’s hotel inventory supports multi-day international gatherings.
Officials say this combination of government presence, private sector innovation and research depth creates the right environment for meaningful dialogue and practical outcomes.
What delegates can expect in 2026
Programming for INCYBER Forum Canada 2026 is expected to combine strategic discussion with operational engagement.
The agenda will include high-level keynote sessions and panel discussions focused on cybersecurity, AI safety and digital resilience. A large trade show will showcase technology providers and emerging solutions.
Pre-conference workshops and executive tabletop exercises are also planned. These sessions are designed to simulate real-world cyber incidents and encourage coordinated response strategies.
Live demonstrations and technical simulations will offer hands-on insight into current tools and technologies. Student engagement initiatives and talent development activities will also form part of the program.
International delegation activities and B2B matchmaking sessions aim to support new partnerships and commercial collaboration.
Economic and strategic impact
Beyond its economic contribution, the event positions Ottawa as a global meeting point for cybersecurity leadership. Hosting INCYBER Forum Canada reinforces the city’s reputation as a centre for digital policy and innovation.
Local officials describe the selection as a strong endorsement of Ottawa’s role in shaping Canada’s cybersecurity future. They also point to the opportunity to showcase regional expertise to international stakeholders.
Preparations are now underway, Ottawa is expected to welcome thousands of experts and decision-makers in December 2026, placing the city at the centre of conversations that will influence digital trust and security for years to come.
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