As we continue to advocate for investments and programs that drive affordable, inclusive, and sustainable city building and community prosperity on behalf of the business community in Canada's Capital Region, we are pleased to see that the 2023 Ontario Budget: Building a Strong Ontario tabled by Ontario Minister of Finance, Peter Bethlenfalvy contains several key commitments that will help support our region's economic competitiveness and growth.

✅ Infrastructure

The budget includes support for redevelopment of the existing hospital and regional trauma centre on a new site for the Ottawa Hospital – Civic Campus to expand access to programs and services as well as meet bed capacity needs. 

✅ Innovation

We are pleased to see the recognition that our region continues to see growth and opportunity for innovators and entrepreneurs. We will continue to support our partners at Invest Ottawa as they are funded over the next three years to expand into a Regional Innovation Centre hub for Eastern Ontario. 

✅ Healthcare

The government will invest $3.1 million in 2023–24 for an expansion of the Ronald McDonald House Charities Ottawa. The expansion will more than double the capacity of RMHC Ottawa House from 55,000 to 115,000 overnight stays per year, for families with children being treated at CHEO.

On behalf of our members, we look forward to continuing our work with the government, local elected officials and our colleagues at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce to advance business success and our economic growth agenda as outlined in OBOT's pre-budget recommendations, which you can find here: https://bit.ly/42FCygc.

Thank you to our colleagues at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce

for this important policy analysis.

Are you a future thinker who is passionate about our city? 

The Ottawa Board of Trade is looking to expand our Advocacy Council. We are seeking members to help impact our advocacy and policy priorities to build up Ottawa to create an affordable, inclusive, and sustainable world class capital city. 

The Advocacy Council works with OBOT staff to design an annual advocacy plan that recommends and implements policies and programs to reduce barriers to business and create a thriving and competitive business environment.

Council volunteers must be a member in good standing.

Please contact Lynn at lynn.ladd@ottawabot.ca. 

Save the Date

2023 City Building Summit: Build Up Ottawa

April 25, 2023 | 8 am to 4 pm | Shaw Centre

An inclusive conversation about the future of Canada’s Capital Region. Together, we will create a diverse and vibrant community with a thriving economy and high quality of life for all. Connect with city builders, learn about what is on the horizon and share your ideas about the future of our city. Everyone welcome.

REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 27, 2023

Keynote by Dr. Mike Moffatt

Dr. Mike Moffatt is the Senior Director of Policy and Innovation at the University of Ottawa's Smart Prosperity Institute and an Assistant Professor in the Business, Economics and Public Policy group at Ivey Business School, Western University. Mike’s research at SPI focuses on the intersection of regional economic development, building child-friendly, climate-friendly housing and communities, and clean innovation.

Special Thanks to our Community Partners!