ASAE’s 2026 Executive Leadership Forum to meet in Ottawa, Canada’s Capital

beth1079
3 minutes ago
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Ottawa Tourism will host ASAE’s 2026 Executive Leadership Forum (ELF) in Canada’s capital from June 28 to 30, 2026. The programme will bring together approximately 100 to 150 association CEOs and senior executives, primarily from the United States with select Canadian leaders, at The Westin Ottawa in the heart of the city’s walkable downtown.

Under the 2026 theme “Leading with Audacity,” the Executive Leadership Forum will provide a high-level environment for association leaders to explore bold approaches to governance, strategy, and organisational resilience. Delegates will engage in an intensive mix of leadership conversations, peer learning, and facilitated discussions designed to challenge assumptions, spark innovation, and apply the “power of place” to complex, future-focused conversations.

Hosted at The Westin Ottawa, the programme will feature dynamic sessions, hands-on learning, and meaningful peer-to-peer dialogue that encourage participants to test new ideas and take-home practical strategies to elevate their leadership practice. The experience in Ottawa will be complemented by host-city supported receptions and local partner venues including Rogers Centre Ottawa and Fairmont Château Laurier.

“ASAE is thrilled to bring the 2026 Executive Leadership Forum to Ottawa, a city that truly reflects the forward-thinking mindset of our association community,” said ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “This year’s Forum will immerse executive leaders in a highly interactive environment designed to spark new ideas, deepen connections, and equip them with practical approaches to the complex issues facing their organizations. Our collaboration with Destination Canada continues to elevate this experience, and Ottawa offers an inspiring backdrop for meaningful conversations and actionable insights.”

“Ottawa is a natural fit for the Executive Leadership Forum and the association leaders who shape policy, innovation, and professional communities across North America,” said Stephanie Seguin, Vice President, Sales, Business & Major Events, Ottawa Tourism. “As a G7 capital with a compact, walkable downtown and a strong concentration of national associations, Ottawa offers a boutique experience at city scale. ELF’s theme of ‘Leading with Audacity’ reflects the way our partners are reimagining meetings and events here, and we look forward to showcasing the city’s ideas, venues, and people to this influential audience.”

Ottawa was selected as the next Canadian host city as part of ASAE’s partnership with Destination Canada, which highlights Canada’s network of knowledge-rich cities. Ottawa’s strong cluster of national associations, government departments, research institutions, and sector leaders makes it especially attractive for cross-border organisations seeking easy access, a safe and inclusive environment, and a globally connected capital city experience.

“Ottawa embodies the strengths that make Canada such a compelling partner for association leaders: a connected capital city, deep sector expertise, and a collaborative ecosystem that accelerates ideas into action,” said Virginie De Visscher, Executive Director, Business Events, Destination Canada. “By hosting the Executive Leadership Forum here, we are not only showcasing an exceptional meetings destination, but we are also inviting association executives to tap into Canada’s networks, talent, and insights to help shape what comes next for their organizations.”

The Ottawa edition continues a successful Canadian series for the Executive Leadership Forum, following the 2025 programme in Montréal. Registration and full programme details for the 2026 Executive Leadership Forum will be available on the ASAE website in due course.