As one of Canada’s fastest-growing hubs for innovation and research, Ottawa is rapidly gaining international recognition as a leader in life sciences. The city’s thriving ecosystem, fuelled by cutting-edge institutions, world-leading talent, and collaborative spirit, is attracting a wave of global associations, cementing Ottawa’s status as a premier destination for life sciences conferences.
Between 2025 and 2027, Ottawa will host seven major life sciences association events, welcoming nearly 5,000 delegates.
“Ottawa is home to groundbreaking research and vibrant cross-sector collaboration that makes it a natural hub for global dialogue in life sciences,” says Stephanie Seguin, Vice President, Business & Major Events at Ottawa Tourism. “We’re thrilled to see a growing number of associations and international leaders choosing Ottawa for their events.”
This momentum was demonstrated at the recent Innovate Canada 2025 event, where Ottawa Tourism’s Business Events team partnered with Invest Ottawa to showcase the city’s deep strengths in the life sciences. Representing the city, Sophie Chen, Life Sciences Sector expert with Invest Ottawa, highlighted Ottawa’s unique blend of expertise, infrastructure, and innovation.
Ottawa’s advantages include world-leading education institutions like the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, a robust network of hospitals and research centres, as well as government agencies that help shape national health policy.
The city also boasts a highly educated workforce and seamless access from North America and Europe, bolstered by recent airline expansions and a multi-award-winning congress centre.
Two winners of the Think Ottawa Leader Awards, Santina LeBrun and Eric Rancourt, demonstrate the impact of local champions in bringing major events to Ottawa. LeBrun and Dr. Vivian Welch were honoured for the What Works Global Summit, while Rancourt led the successful International Statistical Institute World Congress. Their achievements underscore Ottawa’s capacity to host impactful, high-level events across the life sciences sector and related fields.
“Ottawa’s collaborative ecosystem empowers us to not just host events, but to create lasting legacies,” said Santina LeBrun. “There’s a genuine willingness across academia, government, and industry to work together to advance health innovation on the global stage.”
“As we continue to grow our life sciences conference portfolio, we’re not just welcoming visitors,” adds Seguin. “We’re fostering partnerships, sparking innovation, and helping shape the future of global health right here in Ottawa.”
Editors’ Notes: Ottawa Tourism
Ottawa Tourism is the official destination marketing organisation for Canada’s capital city and the surrounding region. A not-for-profit and membership-based organisation, it works with more than 450 member businesses to showcase the best of the region.
Ottawa prides itself on being a vibrant, welcoming, and diverse business event and tourism destination. A hub of culture, history, politics, and natural beauty, the city offers a unique blend of experiences, from world-class museums and galleries to outdoor adventures along the scenic Ottawa River.
With a range of state-of-the-art venues, the city is well-equipped to host events of all sizes and scales. Ottawa Tourism offers convention support services to planners and promotes the city as a premier destination for leisure travel, business events, and conferences.
