Capital Context

BY SUELING CHING

IN EVERY ISSUE of CAPITAL, we aim to tell the real story of Ottawa—not just as the seat of government, but as a city where ideas turn into action, and ambition finds common ground in community. This Spring/Summer 2025 edition is no exception. The theme Ottawa United: Business Success. Community Strength. reflects not only where we are as a city but who we are—and more importantly, who we are becoming.

This issue is packed with powerful examples of how Ottawa is evolving with purpose. You’ll read about leaders from every sector rising to meet this moment with clarity and courage, whether navigating economic transition, building resilient infrastructure, or launching groundbreaking collaborations in health, energy, and innovation.

Our feature on Building Ottawa Better explores the conversations and commitments sparked at the annual City Building Summit. From transportation and housing to policing and public spaces, the summit made clear that progress depends on cross-sector cooperation—and that the private sector has a pivotal role in co-creating solutions that are both equitable and efficient.

You’ll also find a compelling spotlight on our health care ecosystem in Global Health Leadership: Made in Ottawa. In this piece, we see how organizations like CHEO, Montfort, The Royal, and The Ottawa Hospital are working not only to deliver care, but to transform it. These institutions are proving that economic growth and social impact can go hand-in-hand—and that global leadership often begins with local partnerships.

Energy also features prominently in this issue, with Hydro Ottawa, the Kanata North Business Association, and the Ottawa Climate Action Fund outlining bold initiatives for a greener, more resilient energy future. From battery storage and district energy systems to net-zero innovation campuses, these are the projects that will shape our competitiveness and climate leadership for decades to come.

Cultural capital and quality of life are also front and centre. Whether it’s the NCC’s investments in waterfront revitalization, the expansion of Ottawa’s festival and music scene, or the City’s work to enhance safety and accessibility in the ByWard Market, we are reminded that a vibrant city is built not just on infrastructure—but on identity and inclusion.

And speaking of identity, we continue to celebrate the entrepreneurs and enterprises that define our economy. From tech startups transforming logistics to established leaders in construction, finance, and hospitality, Ottawa’s business community is as diverse as it is driven. What they share is a deep commitment to this city—and a belief that business success and community strength are not competing goals, but shared ones.

Across these pages, one message comes through loud and clear: Ottawa works best when we work together. That’s not just a slogan—it’s a strategy.

And it’s a strategy we’ll need to lean into as we face the future. As our city recovers from years of disruption and adapts to rapid economic and technological shifts, we must continue to lead with unity. We must champion innovation while protecting inclusivity. We must accelerate growth while safeguarding sustainability. And we must push for policy that supports confidence, competitiveness, and collaboration across sectors.

This is the approach that will distinguish Ottawa on the national stage—and it’s the foundation of the Board of Trade’s work as your voice of business. Through events, partnerships, and advocacy, we are convening the leaders and conversations that move our city forward. But we know this work cannot happen in silos. It takes all of us—businesses, educators, health care providers, elected officials, and everyday citizens—rowing in the same direction.

So, as you read this edition of CAPITAL, look beyond the headlines and into the heart of the stories. These are not just updates or announcements—they are blueprints for a more connected, competitive, and compassionate city.

Ottawa continues to lead with purpose, partner with intention, and celebrate the progress we are making together. The people of Ottawa should be proud of what we’re building, today and for the future