Ottawa Turns Civic Expertise into an International Conference Win

24th August 2026
Parliament Hill and Centennial Flame

Ottawa has secured the 2029 Annual Conference of the International Institute of Municipal Clerks, strengthening the Canadian capital’s pipeline of international association meetings.

Taking place from 20 to 23 May 2029, the conference is expected to attract 1,000 delegates, generate 2,991 hotel room nights and contribute an estimated CAD 2.8 million to the local economy.

The bid from Ottawa Tourism received support from Destination Canada’s International Convention Attraction Fund, which helps Canadian destinations compete for high-value international events.

The IIMC supports municipal clerks through education, professional development, networking and the exchange of good practice. Its selection of Ottawa creates a natural connection between the association’s work and a capital city shaped by government, public policy and civic administration.

Chris Shalby, Executive Director of IIMC, said: “Ottawa provides a unique stage for IIMC’s annual conference; its status as Canada’s capital delivers both professional relevance and global profile for municipal clerks.” He also highlighted the city’s accessibility, sustainability efforts and collaborative approach.

Virginie De Visscher, Executive Director, Business Events at Destination Canada, said the win reflects Ottawa’s strong value proposition and Canada’s reputation for delivering sustainable, high-impact meetings.

IIMC 2029 follows other fund-supported wins for Ottawa, including the International District Energy Association Annual Conference & Trade Show, which attracted around 750 delegates in June 2026 and generated an estimated CAD 2.9 million in economic impact.

Beyond its tourism value, the IIMC conference is expected to connect delegates with Ottawa’s municipal, federal and community expertise, supporting professional development and knowledge exchange with lasting relevance for local government.

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