ASAE to bring its 2026 Executive Leadership Forum to Ottawa

Ottawa Tourism has confirmed that ASAE’s 2026 Executive Leadership Forum (ELF) will take place in Canada’s capital from 28 to 30 June 2026. The event is expected to attract between 100 and 150 association CEOs and senior executives, primarily from the United States, along with selected Canadian leaders. Sessions will be hosted at The Westin Ottawa, located in the city’s central, walkable downtown.

The 2026 theme, “Leading with Audacity,” will guide a programme focused on governance, strategic innovation, and organisational resilience. Participants will engage in facilitated discussions, peer learning, and leadership dialogues designed to challenge existing approaches and inspire new thinking within the association sector.

The programme at The Westin Ottawa will combine interactive sessions with practical learning opportunities, offering executives a platform to test ideas and refine strategies. The event experience will extend across the city through receptions and activities supported by local partners, including Rogers Centre Ottawa and Fairmont Château Laurier.

American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, highlighted the value of bringing the Forum to Canada’s capital. “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,” she said. “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.”

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“Ottawa Tourism emphasised the city’s relevance for association professionals. “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. “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.”

ASAE selected Ottawa as the next Canadian host city through its partnership with Destination Canada, which highlights the country’s network of knowledge-driven urban centres. The city’s concentration of national associations, government institutions, research bodies, and sector organisations provides a strong foundation for cross-border collaboration.

Virginie De Visscher, Executive Director, Business Events, Destination Canada, reinforced Ottawa’s strategic strengths. “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,” she said. “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 2026 edition follows the Montréal-hosted 2025 Forum and continues ASAE’s engagement with Canada’s business events sector. Registration details and full programme information will be made available on the ASAE website.