Ottawa Board of Trade CEO Update: Spring 2025

Dear Ottawa Board of Trade Members,

 

I wanted to take a moment to share a few important updates and reflections as we move through a busy and pivotal time for our business community.

 

We’ve just returned from a successful trade mission to London, UK, where we joined forces with our Ottawa Unlimited partners, Ottawa Tourism and Invest Ottawa, as well as key partners and members, the Ottawa Airport Authority and Air Canada. Together, we promoted our city on the international stage. The energy was high, and the interest in Ottawa’s economic and innovation ecosystem was clear. With Air Canada resuming non-stop service between Ottawa and Heathrow, this renewed connection will make it even easier to attract investment, talent, and visitors to our region.

 

On the trade front, we continue to monitor and respond to the growing uncertainty related to tariffs and cross-border tensions. We’re working closely with our colleagues at the Ontario and Canadian Chambers of Commerce - many of whom are actively engaged with partners on the ground in the U.S. - and we’re aligned in advocating for strong, strategic policy that protects Canadian businesses. Locally, we are working with key stakeholders and the Mayor’s Economic Council to respond proactively and strengthen our own economy from the inside out. We encourage all members to get involved in buy local campaign led by the city and attend upcoming events and roundtables to stay informed and involved.

 

We also want to invite you to be part of shaping the bigger picture. Join us for the upcoming Ottawa City Building Summit, a powerful opportunity to learn, connect, and influence the direction of our city. We’ll bring together business, government, and community leaders to tackle the big questions about housing, energy, transportation, and more. It’s your chance to play an important role in building the future of Ottawa.

And with a federal election on the horizon, there’s more reason than ever to stay engaged. The decisions made in the coming months will shape our business climate for years to come. That’s why we’re hosting Pints & Politics, a member-exclusive evening featuring great conversations, an expert panel, and a live viewing of the leaders’ debate. It’s a casual, fun, and meaningful way to connect and reflect on what matters most.

 

Thank you, as always, for being an engaged and valued member of the Ottawa Board of Trade community. Together, we’re building something stronger - for Ottawa, and for Canada.

 

Sincerely,

 

Sueling Ching

President and CEO

Ottawa Board of Trade