The Strategic Role of Boards in Economy and Community Building

As Canada and Ontario navigate a period of significant economic transformation, directors are asking critical questions about how to contribute, how to prepare and how to help the country grow in new directions..

Across the country, leaders are convening to explore these questions including overseeing risk in an increasingly complex environment and applying creativity and strategic discipline to long-term decision-making. Recognizing the urgency, and the opportunity, the ICD Southwestern Ontario Chapter is bringing this conversation to Hamilton. On Thursday, May 21, join fellow directors at the McMaster Innovation Centre for a timely and forward-looking discussion that draws on the strengths of the Hamilton business ecosystem and the broader Southwestern Ontario region.

This panel discussion will explore how boards across for-profit and not-for-profit sectors can make an impact shaping resilient economies and vibrant communities. Panelists will share real-world perspectives on how boards contribute to growth and innovation, navigate execution challenges, and address the pressing governance issues emerging from today’s dynamic economic and geopolitical landscape.

Moderated by Anna Iacobelli, Senior Vice President at TD Bank, the panel brings together the following three accomplished leaders with extensive experience with board governance, strategy, growth and execution.

• Jeff Neven – CEO, Indwell

• Matt Jamieson – CEO of the Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation

• Jeff Cowan – President & CEO, Hamilton Community Enterprises & Hamilton Utilities Corporation

Gain valuable perspectives on:

• The board’s role in strategic planning for innovation, effective results, and sustainable impact.

• How boards can contribute to regional economic growth through system-level collaboration across corporations, not-for-profits, Indigenous communities, academia and government

• Why Southwestern Ontario is uniquely positioned to lead Canada’s next phase of economic development, and how directors can help realize that potential with strong urban, municipal, and rural communities, worldclass institutions, and abundant natural, human, and financial resources.

This session offers a unique opportunity to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and strengthen your impact as a board leader at a critical moment for our region and country.

Register now to be part of the conversation shaping the future of Southwestern Ontario.

 

Hamilton – In Person

Attend in Hamilton for the complete experience: a live panel discussion, interactive Q&A, and a networking reception.

Virtual – Live Webinar

Participate remotely via live webinar from your office or home.

Register in  Person here 

Register Online here  

Date
May 21, 2026 5:00 PM-7:30 PM ET
City
Webinar(Hybrid)
Location
McMaster Innovation Park, 175 Longwood Road South, Hamilton, ON L8P 0A1
Ceus
2
Price

In person (Hamilton): Member $45.00 Non-Member $60.00

Virtual: Member $25.00 Non-member $40.00

Cancellations must be completed online at least 48 hours before the event to receive a full refund. To make changes or cancel your registration, simply log in to your member portal. If you have any questions, please email events@icd.ca.

Moderator

Moderator

Anna Iacobelli

Senior Vice President at TD Bank

Board Director | Financial Services & Community Impact Leader | ESG & Talent Champion

Panelists

Panelists

Jeffrey Cowan

President & CEO – Hamilton Community Enterprises
Panelists

Matt Jamieson

ICD.D
CEO of the Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation
Panelists

Jeff Neven

CEO, Indwell
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