Strategic Collaboration Driving International Conference Success
Ottawa is strengthening its position as a global meetings destination through an enhanced partnership between Ottawa Tourism and Invest Ottawa. Together, they are working to attract high-value international conferences and business events, supported by the Think Ottawa program and national funding tools such as Destination Canada’s International Convention Attraction Fund (ICAF).
This collaboration reflects a unified, city-wide approach to securing major events that deliver long-term economic and innovation benefits. By aligning local leadership, infrastructure and funding opportunities, Ottawa is becoming increasingly competitive on the global stage.
Think Ottawa Program Powers Global Event Bids
At the centre of this effort is the Think Ottawa program, powered by Ottawa Tourism, Invest Ottawa and Rogers Centre Ottawa. The initiative provides comprehensive support to local leaders and event organisers pursuing international bids.
Through Think Ottawa, organisers gain access to:
- Tailored bid development and strategy
- Venue and accommodation coordination
- Introductions to key stakeholders and sector experts
- Marketing and promotional support
- Connections to national funding opportunities
This structured approach ensures that Ottawa presents a compelling, unified proposal when competing for global conferences.
Leveraging Ottawa’s Key Industry Strengths
Ottawa’s growing reputation as a hub for aerospace, defence, cybersecurity and applied artificial intelligence is central to its event attraction strategy. The city offers unique advantages, including proximity to federal institutions, international embassies and a highly skilled tech workforce.
These strengths allow Ottawa to host conferences that are not only logistically successful but also rich in expertise, collaboration and innovation.
Michael Crockatt, President and CEO of Ottawa Tourism, emphasized the importance of local leadership in securing international events, noting that Ottawa provides the ideal environment for global conversations that shape the future.
Rogers Centre Ottawa Enhances Event Experience
The Rogers Centre Ottawa plays a critical role in delivering world-class event experiences. Its leadership highlights how conferences foster collaboration, drive innovation and generate meaningful economic impact.
By working closely with Ottawa Tourism and Invest Ottawa, the venue ensures seamless coordination for organisers while showcasing the city’s capabilities on a global platform.
Economic Impact and Innovation Benefits
Business events are a major economic driver for Ottawa. According to Invest Ottawa, conferences connect global leaders directly with the city’s 96,000-strong tech workforce and research institutions.
This collaboration helps transform conversations into:
- Investment opportunities
- Talent attraction
- Long-term economic growth
The result is a multiplier effect that extends far beyond the duration of each event.
National Support Strengthens Ottawa’s Competitive Edge
Ottawa’s bid success is further reinforced by Destination Canada’s International Convention Attraction Fund (ICAF). This federal program supports Canadian cities in securing major international conferences by enhancing their global competitiveness.
ICAF plays a key role in attracting events that contribute to innovation, knowledge exchange and economic development across the country.
INCYBER Forum Canada 2026 Highlights Success
A major example of this partnership in action is the successful bid for INCYBER Forum Canada 2026. Scheduled for December 1–3 at Rogers Centre Ottawa, the event will focus on cybersecurity and AI safety.
The conference is expected to:
- Attract approximately 4,000 delegates
- Generate over 5,000 hotel room nights
- Deliver an estimated $5.4 million in economic impact
This achievement reflects a coordinated effort between Ottawa Tourism, Invest Ottawa, Rogers Centre Ottawa and national partners.
Building Long-Term Legacy Through Events
Ottawa’s approach goes beyond hosting events—it focuses on creating lasting impact. The partnership supports organizers in designing outcomes that include research collaboration, talent development and investment attraction.
By aligning local expertise with global opportunities, Ottawa continues to position itself as a leading destination for international conferences.
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