“As I wrap up my first month at OBOT as Executive Vice President, Advocacy & Strategy, I’ve been energized by both the scale of opportunity ahead for Ottawa and the depth of advocacy activity taking place across our organization. In leading this portfolio, my immediate focus has been on building on the strong momentum OBOT has established – connecting issues, relationships, policy priorities, and community leadership to advance how we engage decision-makers and amplify the voice of Ottawa’s business community at every level of government.
Across our policy pillars – Downtown Transformation, Business Competitiveness, Defence, Energy, and Infrastructure – there is significant activity underway: convening leaders, advancing key discussions, and deepening partnerships that help influence the decisions defining Ottawa’s next chapter. The greatest opportunity I see is the incredible potential our community represents when business, institutional, and civic leaders align around a shared vision for the region – and the momentum that becomes possible when ideas transition to coordinated action.
That momentum is already happening. On June 2, I joined business leaders and chamber colleagues from across the province at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s Advocacy Day at Queen’s Park. The conversations with provincial decision-makers reinforced the importance of ensuring Ottawa’s voice is heard in discussions about economic growth, competitiveness, talent attraction, investment, and innovation. As Canada’s capital and a globally recognized hub for technology, research, and entrepreneurship, Ottawa plays a critical role in Ontario’s economic success.
At the federal level, I also had the opportunity to appear before the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage to discuss how independent businesses can impact Canada’s live music ecosystem. Independent venues are often where artists launch their careers, audiences discover new talent, and communities come together through shared cultural experiences. These businesses are essential contributors to both our economy and our quality of life, and they require a policy environment that supports their continued success. The discussion underscored a broader principle that informs much of our advocacy work: thoughtful public policy can strengthen local economies, support entrepreneurship, and help communities thrive.
This perspective is reflected in the Downtown Ottawa Action Agenda, where arts, culture, entertainment, and experiential destinations are recognized as critical components of a vibrant downtown. A thriving city centre is about more than buildings and infrastructure. It is about creating places and experiences that attract visitors, support local businesses, foster community, and position Ottawa as a destination for talent, investment, and creativity.
As we look ahead to major moments like our upcoming municipal election and advancing broader economic priorities for the region, there will be important opportunities for members to engage alongside us and contribute directly to the priorities that will define Ottawa for years to come. Some of the most important discussions about our city’s future are already underway – and in the months ahead, being close to this work will matter more than ever. Stay tuned.” – Erin Benjamin