Statement from Sueling Ching, CEO, Ottawa Board of Trade, on Ontario’s 2026 Fall Economic Statement
The Ottawa Board of Trade welcomes the Ontario government’s continued focus on business competitiveness, productivity and economic resilience at a consequential time for our province and country. We thank Premier Doug Ford, Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy, and the Government of Ontario for their continued partnership with Ottawa’s business community.
The Fall Economic Statement’s proposed investment tax relief, expanded support for research and development and measures to support small businesses are important steps toward helping Ontario businesses modernize, compete, and grow. At a time of ongoing economic uncertainty, these measures can support productivity, attract investment, and create the high-value jobs Ontario needs to strengthen its economy.
We recognize the provincial commitments highlighted in the statement, including support for OBOT member Ross Video’s expansion, the new Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus, and the completion of the Highway 417 midtown bridge improvements. These demonstrate how strategic investments in our region create jobs, improve connectivity, and deliver long-term economic value for the province.
The statement acknowledges Ottawa’s significant strengths in defence technology and innovation. As a global defence and innovation hub, Ottawa–Gatineau is actively pursuing the headquarters of the proposed Defence, Security and Resilience Bank, a concrete opportunity to turn Ontario’s economic ambitions into action and strengthen its leadership in defence and security.
Our region brings together the federal decision makers, defence companies, researchers, financial institutions, and allied partners that the bank needs to succeed. While Toronto brings significant financial-sector strengths, Ottawa–Gatineau offers unique proximity to Canada’s defence and security institutions, procurement expertise, and international partnerships. Locating its headquarters in Ottawa would connect capital with the expertise and relationships required to scale Canadian companies, create skilled jobs, strengthen Ontario’s industrial base, and deliver lasting economic value for the province and the country.
A competitive capital region requires reliable, sustainable infrastructure. The Board of Trade continues to support Mayor Sutcliffe’s efforts regarding the provincial upload of Ottawa’s light-rail transit system. We will continue to advocate for this provincial investment that would support a more connected, reliable, and competitive region. During our Queen’s Park Lobby Day on November 24, our members will be meeting with Premier Ford and Ontario MPPs to advance the upload and a firm path forward.
Ontario has a direct stake in Ottawa’s ability to turn opportunity into results. A stronger Ottawa means more investment, more jobs, a broader tax base, and greater economic strength for communities across the province. Provincial action on these fundamentals will help Ottawa reach its full potential and ensure that the benefits are felt across Ontario.
A stronger Ottawa means a stronger Ontario.
Together, we can build More Ottawa: more investment, more jobs, and more opportunities for our city and our province.