The Franco-Ontarian Business Forum focuses on opening up markets.
The Franco-Ontarian Business Forum focuses on opening up markets.
In an economic context marked by the need for businesses to diversify their activities, the Fédération des gens d’affaires francophones de l’Ontario (FGA) will hold the 4th edition of the Franco-Ontarian Business Forum on April 30th at the Ottawa Art Gallery.
Bringing together more than 150 entrepreneurs, public decision-makers, and experts, the event aims to serve as a strategic space for reflection and exchange, with the goal of stimulating the growth of Francophone businesses and strengthening their access to new markets.
The recent announcement by the Ontario government of a $100 million investment to support business expansion and resilience gives this edition particular momentum. The Forum thus aims to help participants maximize these new economic opportunities.
Interprovincial trade and market diversification will be at the heart of the discussions. Participants will be invited to identify existing barriers, propose concrete solutions, and formulate structured recommendations to support the development of Francophone businesses.
“In a context where businesses must diversify their markets and strengthen their resilience, it is essential to create conditions that facilitate economic exchanges across the country,” said Dominic Mailloux, President of the FGA. He emphasized that the Forum’s objective goes beyond the exchange of ideas to encourage concrete actions in support of the Francophone economy.
The day, hosted by Sarah Bouchkhi, will include conferences, panels, and presentations focusing in particular on market diversification, transformations in the transportation sector, and issues related to finance and investment.
Several prominent figures will speak, including Ontario’s Minister of Francophone Affairs, Caroline Mulroney, Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, and federal MP Marie-France Lalonde. The opening keynote will be delivered by Bernard Lord, former Premier of New Brunswick and CEO of Medavie.
Representatives from major organizations, such as the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, Bombardier, and the Business Development Bank of Canada, will also take part in the discussions.
Beyond the conferences, the Forum will place strong emphasis on networking, particularly through the Connexion Express activity, designed to foster business connections. The day will conclude with a cocktail reception marking the FGA’s 5th anniversary, as well as the presentation of the Ontario–Quebec Francophonie Trade Award.
The event will take place from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Ottawa Art Gallery.
