Stephanie Seguin, vice-president, business & major events at Ottawa Tourism, spotlights Ottawa’s strength in life sciences driving events
A capital with a boutique touch
Ottawa is working hard to position itself among the world’s leading conference destinations, combining the influence of a national capital with a boutique, high-touch approach that delivers exceptional results for association planners. Strategic sector alignment, competitive affordability, and expanding international air access are the strong suits driving renewed growth across the city’s MICE sector.
“As a centre for policy dialogue, we naturally attract association meetings, global forums, and advocacy-focused events,” says Stephanie Seguin, vice-president, business and major events at Ottawa Tourism. “Organisers benefit from unique access to federal decision-makers, a bilingual environment, and deep cultural offerings, all in a compact, walkable setting. Through our Think Ottawa Leadership Program, we connect organisers with local experts in sectors such as technology, life sciences, and public policy, helping to align event content with Ottawa’s economic strengths and build lasting legacies.”
Strategic investment
Currently, over CAD$1.5bn (US$1.09bn) in public and private investment is being ploughed into enhancing Ottawa’s downtown core. Recent and upcoming openings include:
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Hard Rock Hotel Ottawa with a 1,800-seat theatre
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AC Marriott Ottawa in the ByWard Market
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Moxy Ottawa, a design-driven property
Looking ahead, 2026 will see the debut of History Ottawa by Live Nation (2,000 capacity) and the landmark Ādisōke central library, both adding further high-quality event space.
At the heart of the city’s offer, the Rogers Centre Ottawa (formerly Shaw Centre) anchors the venue landscape with over 34,000sqm of LEED-certified space. Connectivity is also improving, with direct flights from Paris and London making Ottawa more accessible than ever for European delegates.
Life sciences leadership
“Our life sciences ecosystem, fuelled by research universities, leading hospitals, and national health agencies, is attracting a surge in global medical and scientific conferences,” Seguin notes.
Between 2025 and 2027, seven major life sciences events will bring nearly 5,000 delegates to the city. Local champions, recognised through the Think Ottawa Leader Awards, have been instrumental in securing high-impact gatherings that advance health innovation on a global scale.
Industry trends
Seguin tells CMW the Ottawa Business Events sector is nearing pre-pandemic performance, supported by strong domestic demand, federal investment, and targeted international marketing.
“Government programmes such as the International Convention Attraction Fund help mitigate global economic pressures,” she says, “while Ottawa’s affordability advantage compared to other Canadian cities ensures organisers can maximise ROI without compromising quality.”
She adds that the city differentiates itself from other major Canadian destinations through “mid-sized agility, a service-driven approach, and direct links to national institutions.”
Sustainability initiatives include:
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The Responsible Events Guide
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Partnerships with La Tablée des Chefs for food recovery
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Strong accessibility programmes
Recent leadership changes have also reinforced Ottawa’s commitment to excellence. Lesley Pincombe, former VP of the CVB, has become president & CEO of the Rogers Centre Ottawa, strengthening alignment between bureau sales leadership and the city’s flagship venue.
Looking ahead
Seguin’s final word is that, with expanding infrastructure, strengthened air access, and a clear sector-based strategy, Ottawa is poised for sustained growth.
“Whether hosting a global policy summit, scientific congress, or creative industry gathering, Ottawa offers a blend of influence, innovation, and hospitality, making it a compelling choice for planners seeking both impact and inspiration,” she says.
