After three consecutive sold‑out years, OFNEDA is proud to announce the dates for FNEAC 2026.
2638 Steeles Ave E, Brampton, ON L6T 4L7
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For 15 years, the Ontario First Nations Economic Developers Association (OFNEDA) has advanced First Nations economic growth through advocacy, education, networking, and capacity building for communities and businesses across Ontario. The 15th anniversary of the First Nations Economic Advancement Conference (FNEAC) marks a milestone in collaboration, resilience, and economic leadership, while setting the stage for the next generation of First Nations prosperity and opportunity.
For 15 years, the Ontario First Nations Economic Developers Association (OFNEDA) has driven First Nations economic growth through advocacy, education, networking, and capacity building for communities and businesses across Ontario. The 15th anniversary of the First Nations Economic Advancement Conference (FNEAC) marks a defining moment in collaboration, resilience, and economic leadership, setting the foundation for the next generation of First Nations prosperity and opportunity. Attendees can expect a comprehensive experience that includes a dedicated exhibitor area, interactive workshops, plenary and breakout sessions, and curated networking opportunities designed to foster meaningful connections. The program will also feature a gala dinner and awards celebration recognizing excellence in First Nations economic development, along with optional tour experiences that showcase local initiatives, partnerships, and success stories. Onsite registration will open on September 14, followed by an opening reception that evening, setting the stage for relationship-building and collaboration. Over the following days, participants will engage in insightful discussions, knowledge sharing, and strategic networking, all designed to support long-term partnerships and advance economic opportunity across First Nations communities.
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.
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.
Attendees learn about emerging initiatives, best practices, and collaborative opportunities that strengthen First Nations economies because FNEAC is where leaders come to learn, connect, and create real impact.
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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)
Tessa Lavoie, Event Coordinator at events@ofneda.ca
Reema Chopra, Marketing & Training Director at marketingdirector@ofneda.ca
We featured a dynamic lineup of sessions designed to help businesses and communities identify, analyze, and seize economic opportunities. With a focus on sustainable business success – ensuring ventures thrived for years to come – topics included business development, strategic partnerships, economic recovery, growth planning and leadership, entrepreneurship financing access, business start-ups, and project management readiness.
VIEW AGENDAWe welcome all of the following:
Some OFNEDA Memberships come with a complimentary or discounted FNEAC Ticket - please see our Ticket & Admittance Policy for more information.
If you're looking to become an OFNEDA Member, you can use our Membership Comparison Chart to determine which plan is right for you.
If you need to renew your OFNEDA Membership, please log in to your account. For assistance with renewing your membership, logging in, or have questions about membership perks, please contact Monica Lister, Research/Member Support Specialist at membersupport@ofneda.ca.
This conference will feature fulsome discussions on a variety of topics related to seizing economic opportunities, with different streams to meet the varied needs of all delegates in attendance. You can also expect:
Our Tradeshow participants and Artisan Vendors will be available for the duration of the conference!
Absolutely. The benefits of becoming a SPONSOR or TRADESHOW EXHIBITOR include increased visibility with indigenous communities, leaders, and decision-makers. You'll have the ability to network with over 300+ attendees and participants will have the opportunity to speak in front of conference delegates, presenting an invaluable chance to showcase their products and services to potential Indigenous buyers.
There is a room block available at the Valhalla; availability is first come, first serve. Alternative local hotels are available, and a complimentary shuttle bus to and from the event venue will be available to those who book at either of the other options listed on our Hotel Booking page.
We have a graduated refund policy based on how close to the event the cancellation takes place. Please see our Cancellation Policy for more information.
.For questions about sponsorship, the venue, or the event as a whole, please reach out to Peggy Domingue at (705) 542-6276 or ed@ofneda.ca.
For inquiries about OFNEDA Membership, please contact Monica Lister our Research/Member Support Specialist at membersupport@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.
This is an exceptional opportunity to meet:
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.
Registration will open soon. You can sign up for updates on the OFNEDA website to be notified when registration goes live.
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.
• 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.