Ottawa shines as a world-class association event destination
Change is underway in Canada’s capital, as the city continues its transformation into a powerhouse for business conferences, offering more than ever to international association events.
There’s no shortage of incredible tourist experiences in Ottawa (as Ottawa Tourism’s Oh! to Ah! Campaign demonstrates) and with prominent Parliament Hill presiding over downtown, Ottawa’s political significance is clear.
However, thanks to a surge of public and private investment and the collaborative efforts of key organisations, the city is continuing its evolution into a premier destination for world-class association conferences, business events, meetings and exhibitions.
New flight options are facilitating greater European access and strengthening the Canadian capital’s global connections. Air France has added a direct route and Air Canada is reinstating its direct route to and from London Heathrow in 2025.
Rapidly expanding venue offer
On the ground, Ottawa’s hospitality and venue infrastructure has been rapidly expanding, too. Leading the charge is the Shaw Centre, Ottawa’s iconic conference venue. It was recently named the ‘World’s Best Convention Centre’ by the AIPC and for good reason: aside from the 192,000 square footage of meeting space, the centre boasts progressive waste management and efficiency programmes as well as advanced accessibility features – not to mention panoramic city views.
Elsewhere, an influx of luxury hotels is imminent. Over the next three years, the AC Marriott, Moxy, Renaissance and Hard Rock hotels will arrive in the city. Not all new builds, some will occupy old spaces, revitalising and bringing vibrancy to lesser used parts of the city. But all will offer superior event space and accommodation options for large-scale gatherings.
Sustainability and inclusivity
Ottawa’s transformation is being driven by a keen recognition of industry needs and trends. Sustainability is an obvious priority, and the city has taken proactive steps. For example, partnering with non-profit La Tablée des Chefs on a food recovery programme, Ottawa Tourism is intent on reducing food waste in the community and building a more resilient tourism and events industry.
Additionally, now as a ‘Rainbow Registered’ city, Ottawa is proving itself as an inclusive and welcoming destination. And as the city looks to the future, an upcoming accessibility review will further ensure that Ottawa is prepared to meet the diverse needs of all conference and event participants, reinforcing its position as a forward-thinking destination.
Empowering Leaders
Strategic, city-wide partnerships have been equally pivotal in enhancing the city’s conference profile. Ottawa Tourism, Invest Ottawa and the Shaw Centre’s Think Ottawa programme, for example, empower Leaders to make their mark by hosting impactful association conferences in their respective fields. These Leaders are in turn supported with venue sourcing, bid development and marketing. Through this collective effort, Ottawa has already successfully hosted a range of major international events, with more on the horizon.
For those looking to host leading business events in a city that combines innovation, accessibility and inclusivity, Ottawa is ready to deliver.
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