ICD National Director Dialogue - Unleashing the North: Building a Stronger and More Resilient Canada

Canada has entered a period of profound change. Long-standing assumptions about our trading relationships, access to markets, and global security can no longer be taken for granted. We face an urgent need to improve productivity, attract investment and translate our considerable economic advantages into more growth and prosperity.

Canada’s directors bring a unique perspective to these challenges. At a time when our economy and sovereignty are under increasing pressure, what can Canada learn from its directors?

The ICD is convening directors across the country to explore this question. The GTA Chapter invites you to join the first ICD National Director Dialogue on October 29th.

The session will open with a panel discussion followed by a highly interactive dialogue among directors in the room. Together, we will explore:

• What has changed? Which assumptions about Canada, our economic model and competitive position can no longer be taken for granted?

• What does Canada need to do now? What is holding back investment, productivity and growth, and what actions do directors believe need to be taken to strengthen Canada’s competitiveness and economic sovereignty?

• What does this mean in the boardroom? What should boards in any sector be asking and testing as they oversee strategy, risk and capital allocation to make their organizations more resilient and better positioned to contribute to Canada's future?

Throughout the discussion, we will invite participants to consider a more personal question: What does this moment require of me as a director?

The perspectives shared on October 29th in Toronto will launch a national conversation that will continue across Canada and contribute to a national report in June 2027.