Welcome to Capital Connect, your source for business insights, community updates, and opportunities shaping Ottawa’s economic future. Want even more access? Ottawa Board of Trade members receive early access to events, exclusive resources, and additional benefits designed to help businesses connect, grow, and lead in a separate, member-exclusive newsletter. | | | | |
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Ottawa Votes October 26.
Get Informed at MoreOttawa.ca!
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With just six days until the October 26 municipal election, Ottawa residents have an important opportunity to help shape the future of our city.
Throughout this election, the Ottawa Board of Trade's More Ottawa initiative has challenged candidates to engage with three priorities for our city's future:
- Build the city growth requires.
- Compete for the future.
- Build a capital city worthy of Canada.
These priorities reflect a simple idea: Ottawa has the assets of a world-class capital. Now we need the ambition, action, and leadership to realize our city's full potential.
Before you head to the polls, take the time to get informed. Visit MoreOttawa.ca to explore our priorities, review candidate responses, and watch recordings of our Mayoral Debate with leading candidates, Ottawa's Next Chapter: An Economic Leaders Panel discussing the issues that matter most to Ottawa's business community, and Regional Roundtables featuring candidates from across the city.
Election Day is October 26. The countdown is on.
Know the issues. See where candidates stand. Make your vote count.
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A More Connected Canada Means More Opportunity for Ottawa | | |
Stronger connections across provincial borders create new opportunities for Ottawa businesses to grow, compete and succeed.
In a statement marking Small Business Week, the Ottawa Board of Trade's President and CEO, Sueling Ching, highlights the importance of strengthening Canada's domestic market, reducing barriers to trade, and working together to build a more prosperous economy.
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Advancing Ottawa's Infrastructure Priorities | | |
Building the Ottawa of tomorrow requires leadership, collaboration, and action today.
We are pleased to announce Mike Abbott and Susan Margles as the Co-Chairs of the Ottawa Board of Trade's Infrastructure Council!
As Ottawa continues to grow, strategic investments in housing, transportation, and critical infrastructure are essential to attracting talent, supporting businesses, and strengthening our region's economic competitiveness.
Building on the momentum of our 2026 Ottawa Infrastructure Forum and our ongoing advocacy for growth-enabling infrastructure, the Council will bring together industry leaders to identify priorities, inform policy, and champion the investments needed to build a more connected, resilient, and prosperous National Capital Region.
With Mike and Susan's leadership, we look forward to strengthening collaboration between business and government, advancing practical solutions, and turning Ottawa's potential into progress.
Want to help build the Ottawa of tomorrow? Become an OBOT Pillar Partner and join our Infrastructure Council to connect with industry leaders, contribute to strategic discussions, and help advance the infrastructure priorities that will support our region's growth and long-term economic competitiveness.
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Mayor's Breakfast with Dan Goldberg | | November 3, 2026 | Ottawa City Hall - Jean Pigott Place | | |
The Mayor's Breakfast returns on November 3, and we're excited to welcome Dan Goldberg, President and CEO of Telesat, for a fireside chat!
Leading one of the world's largest satellite operators, Dan has been at the forefront of global innovation and connectivity for two decades. Under his leadership, Telesat is advancing the next generation of satellite technology through Telesat Lightspeed, helping position Ottawa as a leader in the global space and technology sectors.
Join the Ottawa Board of Trade and Ottawa Business Journal for an engaging conversation on leadership, innovation, and the opportunities shaping our economic future.
Taking place just days after Ottawa's municipal election, this edition of the Mayor's Breakfast will also feature an update from the incoming Mayor of Ottawa, along with valuable opportunities to connect with business, community, and political leaders from across the region.
| | Post-Budget Breakfast 2026 | | November 6, 2026 | NAC - Canada Room | |
The federal budget is one of the most important economic announcements of the year, shaping the policies, investments, and priorities that will impact businesses across Canada.
For Ottawa, Budget 2026 will help set the direction for growth and investment in our region. With major opportunities in infrastructure, defence, innovation, and talent development, federal decisions will play an important role in strengthening Ottawa's competitiveness and unlocking our economic potential.
Join the Ottawa Board of Trade and Ottawa Business Journal on November 6 for our annual Post-Budget Breakfast, taking place the morning after the federal budget is released.
Hear from experts as they break down the key announcements, examine the impact on Ottawa's business community, and explore what the federal government's priorities mean for local businesses, investment, and economic growth.
The morning will feature a federal budget overview, expert analysis from MNP, a panel discussion led by Syntax Strategic, and opportunities to connect with Ottawa's business and community leaders.
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Early Access for Members Only:
Mayor's Breakfast with Cara Vaccarino
| | November 19, 2026 | Ottawa City Hall - Jean Pigott Place | | |
On November 19, join the Ottawa Board of Trade and Ottawa Business Journal for the next Mayor's Breakfast, featuring Cara Vaccarino, President and CEO of The Royal Ottawa Health Care Group.
With more than 25 years of leadership experience in mental health care, Cara is helping drive innovation, improve access to services, and strengthen partnerships that support healthier communities.
Hear her insights during an engaging fireside chat exploring the future of mental health care and the importance of collaboration in building a stronger, healthier Ottawa.
The morning will also feature an update from City Hall and opportunities to connect with business, community, and political leaders from across the region.
| Events like the Mayor's Breakfast are just one of the ways the Ottawa Board of Trade brings our business community together. If you become an OBOT member, you'll enjoy early access to tickets, preferred member pricing, and more opportunities to connect with the leaders and decision-makers driving our city's growth. | | December 4, 2026 | HISTORY Ottawa | | |
As another year of connections, collaboration, and accomplishments comes to a close, it's time to celebrate!
Join the Ottawa Board of Trade for our exclusive members-only Holiday Cocktail at HISTORY Ottawa, where we'll bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community partners to raise a glass to the year we've shared and the opportunities ahead.
Celebrate in the HISTORY VIP Lounge, a private space designed for a memorable evening of networking and celebration. Enjoy delicious bites, festive refreshments, and great company as you experience one of Ottawa's newest entertainment destinations.
Your evening doesn't end there! Following the Holiday Cocktail, keep the night going with TALK live at HISTORY. Your Holiday Cocktail ticket includes access to the show, giving you the opportunity to experience the venue in action and enjoy an evening of live music after the reception.
Sponsorship Opportunities Available:
Connect with Ottawa’s business leaders, increase your visibility, and showcase your organization at one of the season’s most anticipated networking events. Explore our sponsorship opportunities and discover how your business can be part of the celebration. To learn more, contact Kara Higdon, Director, Business & Community Partnerships, at kara.higdon@ottawabot.ca.
This Is an OBOT Members-Only Event.
This is one of our signature events that sells out early every year. Interested in attending? Become a member and join us! We'd love to celebrate the holiday season with you.
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Sponsored by: Heart of Orléans | | | | |
Congratulations to the 2026 CFO of the Year - Nicole O'Reilly, Lee Valley Tools | | |
Congratulations to Nicole O’Reilly, Chief Financial Officer at Lee Valley Tools, on being named the 2026 CFO of the Year at the Best Ottawa Business Awards!
Since joining Lee Valley Tools in 2003 and becoming CFO in 2009, Nicole has played a key role in guiding the Ottawa-based company through periods of growth, transformation, and uncertainty. From navigating supply chain disruptions and rising costs to overcoming operational challenges, her strategic leadership and financial expertise have helped strengthen the company's resilience and position it for long-term success.
Beyond her financial expertise, Nicole has helped shape Lee Valley's leadership team and foster a culture of collaboration, adaptability, and shared success. Her commitment to empowering employees and embracing change reflects the exceptional leadership that continues to drive Ottawa's business community forward.
Join us at the 2026 Best Ottawa Business Awards as we celebrate Nicole and the outstanding leaders, businesses, and innovators shaping Ottawa's future.
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Sponsored by: Enbridge Gas | | | | |
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Celebrate Small Business Month: Resources to Help Your Small Business Grow
From neighbourhood shops and local startups to innovative companies competing on the global stage, small businesses play a vital role in Ottawa's economy. Supporting their growth means creating more opportunities, strengthening our communities, and building a more competitive capital.
In recognition of Small Business Week, we're highlighting funding opportunities, programs, and tools shared by the Government of Canada that can help Ottawa businesses grow and thrive.
Explore resources to support your next stage of growth:
- Talent and Workforce Development: Discover the Government of Canada's Work-Sharing Program and related workforce supports.
- Government Procurement: Find new business opportunities and explore federal contracts through CanadaBuys.
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