2638 Steeles Ave E, Brampton, ON L6T 4L7
Entrepreneur Member Ticket – $280
Exclusively available to OFNEDA Entrepreneur Members.
Regular Conference Ticket – $560
Conference registration for non-members.
Additional Gala Guest Ticket – $100
For non-conference attendees and additional guests attending the Gala only.
IMPORTANT: Complimentary conference registration is limited to one designated
representative per First Nation member community. Any additional attendees from the same
community must register at the regular conference rate of $560 per person.
Get Conference Updates
For 15 years, the Ontario First Nations Economic Developers Association (OFNEDA) has supported First Nations economic growth through advocacy, education, networking, and capacity building. As First Nations Economic Advancement Conference (FNEAC) celebrates its 15th anniversary, this milestone event brings together leaders, businesses, entrepreneurs, Economic Development Officers, and partners to explore opportunities, share knowledge, and strengthen relationships that support First Nations prosperity.
The conference features an exhibitor marketplace, interactive workshops, plenary and breakout sessions, networking events, and optional tours showcasing local initiatives and success stories. Attendees will also enjoy a Gala Dinner and Awards Celebration recognizing excellence in First Nations economic development.Onsite registration opens September 14, followed by an opening reception that evening. Throughout the conference, participants will engage in meaningful discussions, strategic networking, and practical learning opportunities designed to advance economic development across First Nations communities.
The FNEAC Awards recognize outstanding achievements in economic development, entrepreneurship, partnerships, and community advancement.
View the 2026 nominees and discover the inspiring leaders and organizations shaping the future.
The conference welcomes First Nations entrepreneurs, First Nations community leaders, and businesses, with a strong emphasis on First Nations Economic Development Officers (EDOs) as a primary audience.
It also includes First Nations entrepreneurs and businesses without restriction, as well as non First Nations entrepreneurs, organizations, industry professionals, and government representatives who are interested in exploring meaningful partnership opportunities and building relationships. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about current and emerging economic development initiatives that support First Nations communities across Canada, while gaining insight into best practices, innovation, and collaboration in the First Nations and First Nations economic landscape.
Our dynamic agenda features keynote speakers, panel discussions, workshops, success stories, and networking opportunities focused on economic growth, leadership, sustainability, innovation, and community development.
For fifteen years, we have built capacity, delivered training, and mentored First Nations Economic Development Officers while supporting economic growth across Ontario. FNEAC brings together First Nations entrepreneurs, community leaders, businesses, and EDOs, along with partners from industry, government, and the public sector.
To help make your visit enjoyable and memorable, we have put together a curated list of local venues, sightseeing attractions, restaurants, and points of interest for FNEAC attendees. Whether you're looking to explore the city, enjoy local cuisine, or discover nearby attractions, this guide provides useful information to enhance your overall experience during your stay.
We hope you take the opportunity to experience the best that Brampton has to offer and enjoy your time both at the conference and throughout the community. Click here to explore Brampton.
Hear from respected leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and industry experts who are shaping the future of Indigenous economic development through business, investment, tourism, governance, technology, and community growth.
OFNEDA’s annual conference is an important gathering for First Nation leadership, Economic Development Officers, and youth. It creates space to celebrate Indigenous economic development success stories and to learn from one another through shared experience and best practices. The conference also brings together regions from across the province, helping us understand the diverse issues and opportunities shaping Indigenous economic development in Ontario. Congratulations to OFNEDA on its 15th annual conference!
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Jordan Hatton, Director of Economic Development
Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek (Sand Point First Nation)
I have attended three OFNEDA First Nations Economic Advancement Conferences and have found them to be valuable opportunities to connect with my peers in ways that teleconferences and emails cannot provide. They have also been great learning opportunities, especially for learning about various funding programs, and a chance to build relationships with representatives from the federal and provincial governments. But the most important aspect of the conferences has always been hearing what other First Nations have done. Just knowing that something is possible, that someone else has succeeded in an endeavour that you are considering, is hugely important.
Padraic Taaffe, Community Economic Development Officer
Chapleau Cree First Nation
Tessa Lavoie, Event Coordinator at events@ofneda.ca
Reema Chopra, Marketing & Training Director at marketingdirector@ofneda.ca
The First Nations Economic Advancement Conference (FNEAC) is OFNEDA’s annual gathering focused on economic development, capacity building, and strategic collaboration for First Nations across Ontario. FNEAC 2026 marks the 15th anniversary of the conference.
Entrepreneur Member Ticket – $280
Exclusively available to OFNEDA Entrepreneur Members.
Regular Conference Ticket – $560
Conference registration for non-members.
Additional Gala Guest Ticket – $100
For non-conference attendees and additional guests attending the Gala only.
IMPORTANT: Complimentary conference registration is limited to one designated representative per First Nation member community. Any additional attendees from the same community must register at the regular conference rate of $560 per person.
This is an exceptional opportunity to meet:
No. FNEAC is an in-person event only and will not be offered virtually, recorded for later viewing, or as a hybrid conference. We encourage all attendees to join us on-site to take full advantage of the networking, learning, and relationship-building opportunities available throughout the event.
The 15th anniversary of the First Nations Economic Advancement Conference (FNEAC) celebrates a legacy of collaboration, resilience, and economic leadership. It reflects the progress made by First Nations communities and highlights the continued commitment to advancing prosperity and opportunity across Ontario.
The Conference welcomes First Nations entrepreneurs, First Nation community leaders, and businesses, as well as non‑First Nations entrepreneurs, organizations, and industry professionals interested in exploring business opportunities and learning about new economic development initiatives that support First Nations communities and businesses across Ontario.
Sponsoring or exhibiting at FNEAC 2026 provides direct access to First Nations communities, leaders, and key decision‑makers from across Canada. You will increase your brand visibility, connect with 300+ engaged attendees, and build meaningful relationships that support long‑term partnership opportunities. Exhibitors can also showcase their products and services to a targeted audience and position their organization as a trusted partner in First Nations economic development.
FNEAC 2026 will take place at the Pearson Convention Centre, 2638 Steeles Avenue East, Brampton, Ontario.
Registrations are open now. You can click here to reserve your spot now.
Yes. For sponsorships, trade show booths, or event inquiries, please contact:
Each booth includes a 10’ x 10’ space, black draping, one optional 8’ table, up to two chairs, and two exhibitor badges.
No, unfortunately, we do not provide a shuttle service between the airport and the conference centre. Attendees are responsible for arranging their own transportation. Options may include rental cars, taxis, ride-sharing services, or local transportation providers.
Click here to learn about available transportation options.
Yes. Complimentary shuttle service will be available between the FNEAC designated hotels and the Pearson Convention Centre.
Participating Hotels:
Hilton Garden Inn Toronto/Brampton
2648 Steeles Avenue East, Brampton
(Directly beside the Pearson Convention Centre)
Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Brampton West / Home2 Suites by Hilton Toronto Brampton
200 Steelwell Road, Brampton
(Located a short distance from the Pearson Convention Centre)
Shuttle schedules and pickup details will be shared with registered attendees closer to the event.
• Exhibition Booth: $1,200 + door prize
• Artisans: $100
• Includes 2 exhibitor badges
OFNEDA has secured preferred hotel options for FNEAC 2026 attendees. Both locations are close to the Pearson Convention Centre.
Hilton Garden Inn Toronto/Brampton Address: 2648 Steeles Avenue East, Brampton (Directly beside the Pearson Convention Centre)
Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Brampton West / Home2 Suites by Hilton Toronto Brampton Address: 200 Steelwell Road, Brampton (Located a short distance from the Pearson Convention Centre)
Yes. The Pearson Convention Centre is a fully accessible facility. It offers accessible entrances, washrooms, parking, and barrier‑free pathways throughout the venue to ensure all attendees can participate comfortably.