Summit 2026

Friday, November 20, 2026

Join us for a day focused on Economic Development and Leadership.

The Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office, in partnership with MP Michael Barrett, MPP Steve Clark, the 1000 Islands CDC, CF Grenville, Valley Heartland CFDC, and the Eastern Workforce Innovation Board invite you to the region’s top Economic Development event of the year.

Schedule: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. On-site check-in opens at 8:15 a.m.

Location: North Grenville Municipal Centre, 285 County Road 44, Kemptville

Questions? Contact Joanne Poll at 613-342-3840 ext. 5362 or e-mail.

Agenda & Speaker Announcements

• Rick Tachuk, President & CEO of the American Chamber of Commerce in Canada (AmCham Canada) - With more than 30 years of experience in international trade, investment, business leadership and cross-border issues, Rick brings valuable insight into the Canada–U.S. business relationship and the opportunities and challenges facing businesses on both sides of the border.
• Rhiannon Iles President, HFI Pyrotechnics Inc., -  Federal defence spending is seeing significant increases from $41 billion in 2025 to a projection of $63 billion in 2026, and an estimate of $159 billion by 2036.  HFI Pyrotechnics has positioned itself for future growth and opportunities.  Learn about the company’s journey and what Leeds Grenville businesses can do to explore opportunities in defence sector or indirectly supporting its supply chain.
• The Honourable Kinga Surma, President, Ontario Treasury Board - Amid unwarranted U.S. tariffs and global economic uncertainty, Ontario’s Treasury Board is responding with a careful, thoughtful and strategic approach to the province's finances. The session will highlight the government’s fiscal priorities and the plan to drive sustainable growth, protect jobs, strengthen economic resilience, and modernize procurement. 

More speakers will be announced in our next eNewsletter—stay tuned!

Bill Thake Memorial Economic Development Leadership Award

Introduced in 2011, this annual award, also called the Warden's Award, recognizes and celebrates a volunteer who has shown outstanding commitment and leadership resulting in the growth and vitality of the Leeds Grenville economy.

The winner of this award will be announced prior to the Economic Development Summit, and will be officially honoured at the event on November 20th, 2026.