Empire Club of Canada

Empire Club of Canada
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The Empire Club of Canada is Canada’s go-to forum for conversations that matter. Established in 1903, as a response to Canadian political unrest, the Empire Club of Canada quickly became a leading speakers’ forum. Beginning with speeches to address Canada’s relationships with the British Empire and the United States, the ECC continues to tackle issues that affect the lives of Canadians.

  1. Oct 23

    Stage Zero: The Future of Cancer Detection and Prevention

    What if the future of cancer care is not simply treating cancer earlier, but detecting and preventing cancer before it even occurs? We’re living in an extraordinary era that experts are calling the “golden age” of cancer research. Advances in genomics, early detection research, AI-driven diagnostics, blood-based screening, and precision medicine are moving healthcare toward a new frontier: “Stage Zero” – identifying the risk of cancer or cancer recurrence at its earliest possible point, before symptoms emerge and costly, life-changing treatment is required. Canada is playing an outsized role in this transformation. Institutions like Princess Margaret Cancer Centre are conducting world-leading research in early cancer detection, genomics, and personalized medicine, advanced by scientists whose work is setting the international standard in this field. Governments and health systems are increasingly focused on how innovation can improve outcomes, reduce system burden, and fundamentally change what a cancer diagnosis means for us and for the people we love. On Thursday, October 22, 2026 the Empire Club of Canada was joined by the esteemed lineup of speakers who explored the future of cancer detection and prevention, and how Canada can lead the world in reshaping cancer care from reactive treatment to proactive intervention — and how this work will change lives: Dr. Raymond Kim, Medical Geneticist, Scientific Lead, Peter Gilgan Centre for Early Cancer Detection Research, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, and Head of the Provincial Genetics Program, Ontario HealthDr. Keith Stewart, Vice President, Cancer, UHN and Director, Princess Margaret Cancer CentreAfter we heard from our experts, Teri Hart, Journalist and host of The Hart of it All will spoke with Luana Locke a cancer patient representative to ask what Stage Zero means to them — before sitting down with Dr. Kim and Dr. Stewart. This is a conversation few of us come to at a distance. The most consequential cancer breakthrough of our lifetime may be the one that prevents the diagnosis entirely. Join us at the Empire Club of Canada to understand the strides being made and what they mean for the people, families and communities touched by cancer.

  2. Oct 15

    State of the Province: Our Plan to Protect Ontario in Action; The Honourable Doug Ford

    As Canada faces a more uncertain trade relationship with the United States — including the cessation of CUSMA negotiations amid newly imposed tariffs on Canada — Ontario is at a defining moment.  The Ontario Government must take critical decisions to defend its economic interests, protect jobs and strategic industries, and support Canada’s broader growth trajectory. The moment also underscores the importance of reducing internal barriers, expanding international trade relationships, and advancing a strong commitment to fair, rules-based global commerce. On October 14, 2026, the Empire Club of Canada welcomed The Honourable Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, for a keynote address outlining Ontario’s strategy to protect key sectors, build economic resilience, and advance the province’s interests amid heightened trade uncertainty and evolving economic challenges. The keynote was followed by a fireside conversation with Dr. Andrew Furey, Former Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador and Vice Chair, National Bank, exploring how decisive provincial leadership can support economic growth, deepen interprovincial cooperation, attract strategic investment, diversify markets, and build a stronger, more self-reliant Canadian economy.

  3. Oct 8

    Empire Nights: A United Canada? — A Country at an Inflection Point

    At a time of global uncertainty and changes in Canada’s relationship with the United States—our largest trading partner—the need for national unity has never been more urgent. As economic pressures, geopolitical shifts, and questions about Canada’s place in the world intensify, unity is once again at the forefront of Canadian public discourse in 2026. This Empire Nights event will take place at a pivotal moment: just days after a Quebec election in which the Parti Québécois is leading in the polls, and on the eve of an Alberta referendum amid heightened debate over foreign influence in provincial politics. At the same time, the notwithstanding clause and questions surrounding its constitutional use have re-entered mainstream Canadian discourse, prompting leaders across the country—including Premier Wab Kinew, who recently spoke to this issue at the Empire Club of Canada—to exchange views on this topic. Yet this moment is not defined by division alone. Canada’s premiers are working closely to reduce long-standing east-west trade barriers, while the federal government is focused on strengthening Canadian supply chains, advancing a national electricity strategy, bolster Transportation corridors, and securing new energy infrastructure. Together, these efforts point to a renewed opportunity to bridge regional divides and rethink how Canada builds shared prosperity. On October 7th, 2026, The Empire Club of Canada was pleased to welcome The Honourable Jason Kenney, Premier of Alberta (2019-2022) and Senior Advisor at Bennett Jones and The Honourable Jean Charest, Premier of Québec (2003-2012), and Partner at Therrien, Couture, Joli-Coeur, for a timely conversation on the future of Canadian unity. Both Premiers laid out their thoughts on national unity before sitting down for a discussion with The Honourable Seamus O’Regan, Vice-Chair at Global Public Affairs and Senior Business Advisor at Stewart McKelvey. The evening opened with a polling presentation by David Coletto, Founder, Chair and CEO at Abacus Data, who offered insight into national public opinion trends and the forces shaping Canadian’ views on unity, federalism, and the country’s future.  Join us for a candid and timely discussion on national unity and the path to a stronger Canada.

  4. Oct 6

    CUSMA and the Future of North American Trade

    Just weeks after Canada’s counter-tariffs on $27.6 billion in U.S. imports take effect, following the breakdown of Canada–United States trade negotiations and the imposition of new U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods, it is time to reflect. Canada is entering a consequential period for its trading relationship with the United States—one that calls for a clear-eyed assessment of the country’s economic interests, resilience, and future direction. Canada’s countermeasures, which take effect September 8, are designed to match U.S. tariff levels across affected products. The future of Canada’s trading relationship with its largest partner is now at the centre of the national conversation. Canadian business leaders who depend on this relationship are preparing for the impact of new 50 percent U.S. tariffs affecting key Canadian sectors and products. As a result, business leaders and Canadians alike are focused on what these changes will mean for competitiveness, investment, energy security, supply chains, and long-term economic growth—as well as the immediate pressures facing workers, businesses, and communities. This moment also reinforces the importance of strengthening Canada at home and abroad: reducing internal trade barriers, securing strategic supply chains, supporting Canadian industry, and expanding international trade relationships rooted in fair, open, and rules-based commerce. While the Canada–U.S. relationship remains vital, Canada’s long-term prosperity depends on the capacity to defend its interests, diversify its economic reach, and compete with confidence in a changing global economy. On October 5, the Empire Club of Canada, in partnership with the American Chamber of Commerce in Canada (AMCHAM), will convene this timely conversation on the future of trade among Canada, the United States, and Mexico—and on the practical paths toward restoring stability and predictability for businesses on both sides of the border. Bringing together experts from all three countries, this discussion will examine the way forward, the implications of the current dispute, and how Canadian businesses can prepare. Please join The Empire Club of Canada for this high-impact panel discussion featuring David MacNaughton, Canadian Ambassador to the United States (2016-2019), Chairman of Therme Ventures and Strategic Advisor in CIBC’s Office of the CEO; Sergio Gómez Lora, Mexico’s Business Coordinating Council (CCE), U.S. Representative Office; and Dan Ujczo, Associate General Counsel, Cenovus Energy, and AMCHAM Board Member. The panel will be moderated by Hannah Thibedeau, Executive Communications Officer, Global Public Affairs, and award-winning veteran journalist.  The event will kick off with a brief presentation from Dr. David Colleto, Founder Chair, and CEO Abacus Data, on the views of American and Canadians regarding the U.S. — Canada relationship, and contextual remarks from Christopher Sands, Director of the Center for U.S.-Canada Studies at Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies. Hear from leading experts on Canada’s approach to CUSMA, the future of North American economic cooperation, and the choices that will determine whether Canada is positioned to protect its interests, seize new opportunities, and maximize its long-term success.

  5. Oct 4

    Ana Bailão: Building What Canada Needs — The Partnerships, Investments, and Innovations Shaping Build Canada Homes’ New Approach to Affordable Housing Delivery

    Housing affordability remains one of Canada’s most pressing challenges. Meeting it will require more than funding alone. It will require new partnerships, new approaches, and a renewed focus on delivery.  As Canada’s newest federal Crown corporation, BCH was established to help unlock affordable housing supply by activating public land, deploying flexible financing, supporting modern methods of construction, and building stronger partnerships across the housing ecosystem. Its first year has been focused on creating the foundations for long-term impact and identifying the barriers that continue to stand in the way of building more homes, faster.  On October 2nd, 2026, The Empire Club of Canada was proud to host Ana Bailão, CEO of Build Canada Homes for a keynote address followed by a fireside chat moderated by Benjamin Tal, Deputy Chief Economist, CIBC, on the future of affordable housing delivery in Canada, the lessons emerging from BCH’s first year, and the actions needed to translate ambition into homes.

  6. Oct 2

    One Canada, Built Together: United to Secure Our Energy Future

    Ontario's electricity demand is forecast to grow 65 percent by 2050. Canada has built at this scale before. The question now is whether it can build again, quickly, affordably and together, across nuclear generation, transmission, storage and cleaner fuels. At One Canada, Built Together: United to Secure Our Energy Future, James Scongack, Chair of the Green Ribbon Panel and Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of Bruce Power, launched the Green Ribbon Panel's fourth report at the Empire Club of Canada. He called on leaders to act as Canadians first, to keep federal measures such as investment tax credits and Indigenous loan guarantees in place to 2050, and to commit to rigorous front-end planning and design completion. He described the build-out ahead as a people undertaking, not a technical one. A panel moderated by Alan Carter, Municipal Affairs Reporter at City TV, followed. Megan Telford, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hydro One, explained why the utility spends over 90 percent of its supply chain in Canada and Ontario, and described its 50-50 ownership model with First Nations. John MacQuarrie, President, Commercial Operations, BWXT Canada, showed how a long-term demand signal from Bruce Power let the company grow its plant capacity by more than 25 percent. Victoria Mancinelli, Director of Public Relations, Marketing and Strategic Partnerships at LiUNA, made the case for proactive recruitment and training, and argued that labour can never be an afterthought. Daniel Tisch, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, shared new Business Confidence Survey data and the case for stronger links between learning and work. The panel discussed supply-chain capacity, workforce pipelines, community engagement, Indigenous partnership and the role of AI in making every dollar and every worker more effective. Thank you to our Lead Event Sponsors Candu Energy and Westinghouse, with remarks from John Gorman, President of Westinghouse Canada, and Sandy Taylor, CEO of Candu Energy. Subscribe for more thought leadership from Canada's go-to forum for conversations that matter. Explore membership at empireclub.org.

  7. Sep 30

    Empire Nights: Politics in a Shifting World — Will Toronto, Ontario and Canada Meet the Moment?

    Toronto is entering another defining political moment. With the next mayoral race already taking shape, voters, city-builders, community leaders, and business voices are asking what kind of leadership Canada’s largest city needs now. From Queen’s Park to Parliament Hill, questions of affordability, infrastructure, immigration, wildfires, taxation, trade, and public trust are shaping political landscape at all three levels of government. At the same time, Canada’s political agenda is becoming more complex: the future of the USMCA agreement, renewed debates about Canada’s economic sovereignty, Global political shifts, and questions about the durability of Canada’s National Unity, are all adding new dimensions to how parties, leaders, and voters think about the year ahead. Against this backdrop, the Empire Club of Canada brought together some of the country’s most seasoned political observers and strategists for a fast-paced evening of insight, candour, and analysis — exploring the campaigns, policy choices, public moods, and strategic calculations that are shaping municipal, provincial, and federal politics. Join Kory Teneycke, one of Canada’s most influential conservative strategists, Cofounder and CEO Rubicon Strategy Inc.; Peter Donolo, veteran Liberal strategist and communications advisor; Jordan Leichnitz, Canada Director, Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung; and Robert Benzie, Queen’s Park Bureau Chief for the Toronto Star, for a lively conversation on the campaigns, personalities, policies, and power shifts that will shape the city, the province, and the country. Kicking off this event was renowned pollster Nik Nanos, Chief Data Scientist and Founder, Nanos Research to provide special remarks and a presentation outlining polling data — and more importantly — incites on the mood of the Toronto, Ontario and Canadian electorate.

  8. Sep 26

    The Honourable Evan Solomon — AI for All: Building Canada’s AI Future

    In June 2026, the Government of Canada launched Canada’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy: AI for All. It is a plan to move Canada from invention to impact by building the trust Canadians need, expanding opportunity for workers, students and businesses, and strengthening Canada’s ability to control its own technological future. On  September 25th, please join the Empire Club of Canada for a keynote by The Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation entitled, AI for All: Building Canada’s AI Future. This will be followed by a fireside chat moderated by Sean Speer, Co-Founder and Editor-at-Large of the Hub Three months after the launch of AI for All, Minister Solomon will discuss how the government is translating the strategy into action: helping Canadian businesses adopt AI, equipping people with the skills and access they need, protecting Canadians and building public trust, and strengthening the talent, infrastructure and domestic capabilities Canada needs to compete. As countries race to harness the potential of AI, Canada faces a fundamental choice: whether to be primarily a consumer of technologies built elsewhere, or a country that builds, adopts and shapes AI on its own terms. This conversation will examine the progress underway, the choices ahead and what it will take to make AI for All real for Canadians.

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About

The Empire Club of Canada is Canada’s go-to forum for conversations that matter. Established in 1903, as a response to Canadian political unrest, the Empire Club of Canada quickly became a leading speakers’ forum. Beginning with speeches to address Canada’s relationships with the British Empire and the United States, the ECC continues to tackle issues that affect the lives of Canadians.

Information

  • Creator
    Empire Club of Canada
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    461
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Empire Club of Canada
  • Show Website
    Empire Club of Canada

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