Empire Club of Canada

This is a defining moment in Toronto’s history. As Canada undergoes unprecedented change and challenges, Toronto is feeling the pressure— but also must see the possibilities. From the lasting impact of the pandemic on how we live, work, and move through the city, to shifting global dynamics, such as the U.S. trade war that is sparking major domestic investment.  Toronto is having to navigate all these issues and more while keeping the following question and priority in focus:  How do we grow a stronger, more inclusive city while protecting the quality of life for over 3 million Torontonians—and more than 7 million across the GTHA?  On Tuesday, September 16th, join The Empire Club of Canada for a must-attend keynote with Jordan Bitove, Publisher of the Toronto Star, as he presents Toronto’s 2025 City Report Card.  The remarks will be followed by a panel moderated by Giles Gherson, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Toronto Region Board of Trade, featuring Heather McDonald, President & CEO of United Way Greater Toronto., and Ana Serrano, President of OCAD University. Get a first look at the Star’s new report—packed with data, insights, and real voices from across the city. From housing, transit, and public safety to sustainability, inequality, and civic engagement, this is a deep dive into what’s working, what’s broken, and how we fix it.  

Ontario is going big and bold. As we face unprecedented economic challenges from US tariffs, we’re doubling down on a historic $200-plus billion plan to build new roads, transit, schools, hospitals, and long-term care homes. At the same time, Ontario is making it easier and faster to build residential, commercial and industrial buildings across municipalities.As leaders and partners in the construction industry, you are invited to join Ontario’s Minister of Infrastructure, Kinga Surma, and Infrastructure Ontario Interim CEO and President, Angela Clayton, on June 5th, when the Market Update was released with details of upcoming projects involving highways, hospitals and other critical assets.The event also included how the government is working with the building and development sector to get shovels in the ground sooner to protect Ontario’s economy, create more jobs and support communities.This event was moderated by Kelly Jackson, Vice-President, Destination Development at Destination Toronto.

As the Canada-U.S. relationship dominates discussions on both sides of the border, the arrival of the U.S. Ambassador to Canada has never been more anticipated. The new U.S. Ambassador to Canada is integral to addressing the most important issues between the United States and the newly elected Canadian government led by Prime Minister Mark Carney. As our countries’ leaders chart a path forward for the bilateral relationship, it is crucial that Canada builds a positive relationship with the United States’ most senior representative in Canada. On June 3, 2025, the Empire Club of Canada will partner with the American Chamber of Commerce in Canada (AmCham), to present “A New Era for the Canada-U.S. Relationship,” the first public event in Toronto of the Honorable Pete Hoekstra, Ambassador of the United States to Canada. Ambassador Hoekstra will offer insights into the future of U.S.-Canada relations, followed by a fireside chat moderated by The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Vice-Chair, Global Investment Banking at CIBC Capital Markets. With billions of dollars’ worth of goods crossing the border daily, the importance of understanding and engaging with the new U.S. Ambassador to Canada cannot be overstated. This event will be invaluable to understand the evolving trade, security, and diplomatic landscape that will define the next era of our relationship with the United States. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this landmark event. Secure your tickets today.The content presented is free of charge but please note that the Empire Club of Canada retains copyright. Neither the speeches themselves nor any part of their content may be used for any purpose other than personal interest or research without the explicit permission of the Empire Club of Canada.Views and Opinions Expressed Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the speakers or panelists are those of the speakers or panelists and do not necessarily reflect or represent the official views and opinions, policy or position held by The Empire Club of Canada.

Canada is in the midst of a Global Trade War. This puts Ontario — as Canada’s economic engine — at the heart of the battle. At this unprecedented moment, the Empire Club of Canada will host The Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, Ontario’s Minister of Finance for his annual speech in anticipation of Ontario’s 2025 Provincial Budget.   This event will discuss the Ontario government’s plan to protect businesses, workers, and families during a time of economic uncertainty, while setting the stage to make Ontario the most competitive place in the G7 to invest, create jobs and do business.  On May 12, 2025 – join us at The Empire Club of Canada for a keynote speech and fireside chat with Minister Bethlenfalvy regarding his first budget since the Conservative Government received a new mandate in the 2025 General Election. The discussion will be moderated by Amanda Lang, Chief Financial Correspondent at CTV News and Anchor of Taking Stock, CTV.   

This is an Empire Nights event, proudly presented by the Empire Club of Canada.The results are in: Mark Carney’s Liberals have emerged with a minority government following one of the greatest comeback stories in Canadian political history.Liberal party fortune’s skyrocketed in the first half of the campaign with pollster predictions of a majority of over 190 seats in this volatile race prompted by Mark Carney’s Liberal Leadership victory and a Trade war waged by U.S. President Donald Trump (as covered in our March’s Empire Nights event).But the final week of the campaign saw a late Conservative surge, prompting crucial questions: What precipitated the surge? Were young males under 40 a decisive force in shifting the momentum? Was housing-affordability a sleeper hit? And what does all this signal for the future of Canadian politics? If you are like most Canadians did not see this electoral outcome as a possibility, this is an event for you. On May 6th, join the Empire Club of Canada for a special post-election edition of Empire Nights: The Pollsters: The Story of Canada’s Election and the New Government’s First 100 Days.A panel of expert pollsters will go beyond the headlines to unpack what really drove the election outcome — and what it tells us about the road ahead for Canada’s political landscape. Our panel of leading pollsters features:– David Coletto, Founder, Chair, and CEO of Abacus Data– Kyla Ronellenfitsch, Founder of Relay Strategies– Sébastien Dallaire, Executive Vice President, Eastern Canada, LégerEach will share their unique perspective on the recent election and its implications. Following their presentations, they will sit down with Robert Benzie, journalist and Queen’s Park Bureau Chief, Toronto Star, to explore what lies ahead for Canada’s new government — and what the first 100 days may reveal about the priorities of the next Prime Minister. Join us in partnership with The Niagara Roundtable for an unforgettable evening of passed canapés, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere designed to inspire and connect. *The content presented is free of charge but please note that the Empire Club of Canada retains copyright. Neither the speeches themselves nor any part of their content may be used for any purpose other than personal interest or research without the explicit permission of the Empire Club of Canada.**Views and Opinions Expressed Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the speakers or panelists are those of the speakers or panelists and do not necessarily reflect or represent the official views and opinions, policy or position held by The Empire Club of Canada.*

PlayCorruption costs the world economy around US$5 trillion each year, the equivalent of 5% of global GDP, according to Transparency International. This widespread issue hinders economic growth, deepens inequality, and siphons funds from essential public services like education and healthcare.While many view corruption as a government issue, businesses can’t afford to ignore the risks. Organizations that neglect these risks not only risk reputational damage but can also face financial penalties, regulatory scrutiny, and potential legal complications. Both businesses and governments have a vested interest in fighting corruption – and this event is crucial for businesses to learn about how to protect themselves and maintain compliance.Is worldwide corruption on the rise?On May 6, 2025, join us at the Empire Club of Canada to find out! This insightful discussion will feature key business leaders and experts on the critical role of the private sector in combatting corruption.Our panel will explore the potential impact of changes in U.S. policies, such as eliminating beneficial owner disclosure and the Trump administration’s decision to halt enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act — which has been the linchpin of global anti-corruption efforts — on Canadian businesses operating in the U.S. and abroad.The event will also cover new international anti-corruption initiatives, how the private sector can support them, and provide insights on identifying red flags of corruption and money laundering, as well as enhancing due diligence on customers’ wealth sources.Panelists include Hentie Dirker, Chief ESG and Integrity Officer at AtkinsRéalis; Peter German, President of the International Centre for Criminal Law Reform; Allan Rock, World Refugee & Migration Council Member and former Minister of Justice & Attorney General of Canada, and moderated by Rita Trichur of The Globe and Mail.The results of a public opinion survey by Angus Reid Institute on the prevalence of corruption in Canada will be shared at the event, and an action plan for the private sector will provide a unique perspective on how businesses can safeguard their operations and reputation.*The content presented is free of charge but please note that the Empire Club of Canada retains copyright. Neither the speeches themselves nor any part of their content may be used for any purpose other than personal interest or research without the explicit permission of the Empire Club of Canada.**Views and Opinions Expressed Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the speakers or panelists are those of the speakers or panelists and do not necessarily reflect or represent the official views and opinions, policy or position held by The Empire Club of Canada.*

The average life expectancy of a Canadian has grown over the past 200 years from below 40 to over 82 years. Canadians are living longer, but for many, it is not long enough.The pursuit of longevity is further evolving – becoming a passion feeding a booming industry promoting preventative and personalized health care strategies to increase not only our lifespans but our health spans as well. From cold plunges to red-light therapy – from sleep-tracking rings to biohacking practices, there have been many varying methods that have been featured by celebrities in the news and social media, that are claimed to promote life extension.But are any of these treatments grounded in science?Longevity also has “side effects”. When our retirement years can last longer than expected, it requires a different approach to savings and investment portfolio construction. There are insurance implications and immeasurable costs for the sandwich generation as they balance unpaid caregiving with paid employment – impacting economic productive and growth potential.This event will feature three very different approaches to longevity.On April 23, 2025, the Empire Club of Canada will first hear featured remarks from Dr. Kashif Irshad, Lifespire’s Medical Director & Co-Founder on the evolving science of longevity that impacts health vitality and well-being.We are also honoured to welcome the remarks from Dr. Samir Sinha, Geriatrician and Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto and Director of Health Policy Research at the National Institute of Ageing, on the science of ageing from his perspective of his role as a renowned clinician and research who has been known to question the scientific basis for some of the emerging longevity practices being currently promoted.And to understand how living longer should impact your personal approach to financial and estate planning, we will welcome Alex Besharat, Executive Vice President, Canadian Wealth Management of Scotia Wealth Management to join our medical experts on a panel.This discussion will be moderated by Karli Farrow, President and CEO, Trillium Health Partners.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is causing disruption in almost every sector — and the professional services sector is no exception. For those working in law, finance and accounting, AI’s influence is already here, impacting how you work and what clients expect.To stay competitive, firms must balance growth, efficiency, and service innovation with regulatory standards and ethical responsibilities. AI introduces risks that can be challenging for professions grounded in precision and trust, especially as ethical and regulatory frameworks lag in keeping up with technological advancements. The professional services workforce will also change, pushing professionals to become more adaptable, develop new skills and stay ahead of evolving client expectations.On April 15, 2025, the Empire Club of Canada will host an insightful discussion titled The AI Revolution: What’s Next for Law, Finance, and Accounting? This event will bring together a panel of experts to explore the challenges, strategies, risks, and opportunities associated with integrating AI into these key professional services. The discussion will feature Dr. Foteini Agrafioti, Chief Science Officer at RBC and SVP of RBC Borealis; Colin Lachance, Innovator-in-Residence at the Ontario Bar Association; Iliana Oris Valiente, CPA, CA, Managing Director, and NA Innovation Hubs Lead at Accenture; and will be moderated by Cameron Schuler, Chief Commercialization Officer and Vice President of Industry Innovation at the Vector Institute.

Canada and the world are facing a momentous energy challenge. With energy demand soaring, aging infrastructure, population growth, and artificial intelligence rapidly advancing, the pressure on our energy systems has never been greater.On April 10, 2025, join us at the Empire Club of Canada for an insightful conversation with Nicolle Butcher, President and CEO of Ontario Power Generation (OPG) – one of North America’s most diverse electricity generators. Nicolle will discuss how OPG plans to help grow Ontario’s economy and energy sector supply chains through first-of-a-kind technologies, new generation developments, and one of the nation’s largest refurbishment programs.This event marks Nicolle Butcher’s first address as CEO of OPG, where she will outline her vision for OPG. The fireside chat will be moderated by Amanda Galbraith, Partner at Oyster Group.Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from a leader at the forefront of shaping our energy landscape.*The content presented is free of charge but please note that the Empire Club of Canada retains copyright. Neither the speeches themselves nor any part of their content may be used for any purpose other than personal interest or research without the explicit permission of the Empire Club of Canada.**Views and Opinions Expressed Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the speakers or panelists are those of the speakers or panelists and do not necessarily reflect or represent the official views and opinions, policy or position held by The Empire Club of Canada.*

This is an Empire Nights event, proudly presented by the Empire Club of Canada.The stakes could not be higher for Canadians as we choose our next government.  With President Trump imposing tariffs to economically coerce Canada into becoming the 51st state, threats to our water and borders, and the shifting of global alliances away from post-WWII norms, Canadians have awakened to a profound sense of patriotism and resolve.Against this backdrop, Canada’s governing party has chosen Mark Carney to lead them into the election against Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives and Jagmeet Singh’s NDP at the national level.Most experts agree that the convergence of these two events has made the outcome of Canada’s 2025 election less predictable. Just a few months ago, every poll indicated that the Conservatives were heading towards a decisive victory.  With a more competitive election on the horizon, the Empire Club of Canada has brought together a group of experts who will make sense of the rapidly changing political landscape.Join Kory Teneycke, Co-founder and CEO, Rubicon Strategy; Hon. Seamus O’Regan, former Trudeau government cabinet minister; Kathleen Monk, Principal of Monk+Associates; and Laura Stone, Staff Reporter, Globe and Mail as moderator.Kicking off this event will be renowned pollster David Coletto, Chair and CEO of Abacus Data to provide special remarks and a presentation outlining polling data on the mood of the Canadian electorate.