The Empire Club of Canada
The Empire Club of Canada is working on curating more #ConversationsThatMatter. Please check back soon. In the meantime, scroll down to Watch and Listen to past events.
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 will be released with details of upcoming projects involving highways, hospitals and other critical assets. The event will also include 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 will be 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.
Established in 1903, as a response to Canadian political unrest, the Empire Club of Canada quickly became a leading speakers’ forum.
The club invites speakers to present various perspectives—including those that may not be popular but should be heard. Since its inception, the Empire Club has hosted 3500 prominent Canadian and international leaders, including Prince Edward, the Prince of Wales (later Edward VIII), Winston Churchill, Ronald Reagan, Audrey Hepburn, Margaret Mead, Christopher Plumber, Roberta Bondar, Maureen Forrester, Adrienne Clarkson, Margaret Thatcher, Vladamir Putin and Bill Gates, to name but a few. Topics encompass business, politics, education, trade, labour, culture, international issues, as well as, other relevant topics that emerge.
