Sunday, June 15, 2025

For the first time in its history, the(HAC) is hosting its annual conference in Ottawa, the nation’s vibrant capital. Set to take place from 2025, this landmark event is more than a gathering—it’s a defining moment for Canada’s hotel and tourism industry as it responds to a rapidly evolving hospitality landscape. Delegates from across the globe, including , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , and many more will converge in Ottawa to discuss pressing industry challenges and innovative solutions. The hospitality industry in Canada is valued at and employs individuals, with businesses represented across the country.

From coast to coast to coast, the conference will welcome hoteliers, executives, innovators, and policy influencers from every corner of the country. Attendees will explore the pressing challenges facing the industry—labor shortages, sustainability demands, rising guest expectations—and discover how bold leadership and fresh thinking can turn disruption into opportunity.

Choosing Ottawa as the host city carries symbolic significance. As the political and cultural heart of Canada, Ottawa provides the ideal backdrop for high-level discussions on policy, recovery, and transformation. The city’s modern hospitality infrastructure, thriving hotel scene, and walkable downtown core make it a strategic location for business events of national importance.

This move also underscores HAC’s commitment to decentralizing major industry conversations and tapping into the full potential of Canada’s diverse regional markets.

This year’s dynamic program is packed with visionary keynotes, panel discussions, and interactive sessions tailored to every level of hotel leadership—from general managers and franchisees to regional executives and brand strategists.

Participants can expect:

But beyond the sessions, what sets this event apart is the spirit of collaboration and innovation that permeates every aspect—from the networking lounges to the closing celebration.

The 2025 conference is proudly supported by an impressive roster of industry-leading partners, each playing a vital role in shaping Canada’s hospitality future. These include:

Industry Champions:

Executive Partners:

Association Members:

City Hotel Associations:

These partnerships help ensure the conference delivers value, depth, and actionable tools to its attendees, while also creating space for strategic industry collaboration.

The hospitality sector in Canada, while showing signs of robust recovery post-pandemic, still faces a number of headwinds: rising operational costs, recruitment challenges, new guest behaviors, and climate-driven pressures on infrastructure and service delivery.

HAC’s 2025 conference arrives at a pivotal time. It offers a national platform to align the industry’s voice on government advocacy, sustainable practices, Indigenous tourism partnerships, and innovation in hospitality services.

In addition to the formal sessions, attendees can take advantage of several exclusive networking events:

These events aim to spark conversations, foster partnerships, and reinforce Canada’s hospitality ecosystem.

Getting to Ottawa is easy thanks to its well-connected Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW). Located just 10 km from downtown Ottawa, YOW serves as the main gateway for domestic and international visitors. The airport offers direct flights to and from major Canadian cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, as well as international destinations such as New York, Chicago, and London.

Key airlines serving YOW include Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter Airlines, all of which offer frequent flights to and from Ottawa. For international travelers, YOW also hosts a range of international carriers, making it a convenient point of arrival for delegates traveling from abroad.

The accessibility of Ottawa’s airport ensures that participants can quickly arrive and immerse themselves in the conference’s offerings without delays, setting the stage for a productive and seamless experience.

Ottawa offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious five-star hotels to budget-friendly accommodations for those seeking a more economical stay. Several hotels in the downtown area are located just a stone’s throw from the conference venue, ensuring attendees can stay within walking distance of the event.

Some notable hotels include:

For those seeking more budget-conscious options, there are several boutique hotels and chains such as Holiday Inn Express and Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre, offering comfort and convenience at a more accessible price point.

Ottawa is not just a conference hub—it’s a city steeped in history and culture, offering plenty of sightseeing opportunities for attendees during their downtime.

• The Rideau Canal: Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal offers scenic boat rides in the summer and an iconic winter skating experience.