Applications now open for the 2026 Governor General's Canadian Leadership Conference

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Applications now open for the 2026 Governor General's Canadian Leadership Conference

The Rideau Hall Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2026 Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference (GGCLC). The two-week conference will bring together 240 emerging leaders from across Canada to explore real-world leadership while building the networks and perspectives needed to shape Canada’s future.

This hands-on approach to leadership development has earned recognition from prominent alumni, including former Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi, who participated in 2008. “I learned so much from the people we met, and from my fellow travelers. I can’t recommend it highly enough,” he reflects.

In a time of global uncertainty, the GGCLC offers something unique: leadership development through action, dialogue, and discovery. Participants from business, labour, government, and community organizations join cross-sector teams to visit communities across Canada, hearing directly from citizens and exploring the complexities facing the country today.

“There is no other opportunity in Canada where emerging leaders get to test their skills, build their awareness… and meet other engaged individuals from across the country.”
Alissa Barton, 2015 participant, Vice-President of Human Resources at Infrastructure Ontario

Key details

Dates: May 22 – June 5, 2026

Opening Plenary: May 22-24 (Québec City, QC)

Study Tours: May 25-June 2 (Across Canada)

Closing Plenary: June 3-5 (Ottawa, ON)

Eligibility: Canadian citizens able to attend the full 2-week conference with endorsement from their employer or organization (unless self-employed)

All travel, meals, and accommodations during the conference

Participants are responsible only for travel to Québec City and return from Ottawa

Who should apply?

You are an emerging leader with a track record of impact, expected to move into a senior role in the next decade.

You want to better understand Canada, and contribute to its future.

You are ready to listen, challenge ideas, and grow.

Application Deadline: September 30, 2025. Emerging leaders ready to take their place among Canada’s next generation can apply at leadershipcanada.ca.

Applications now open for the 2026 Governor General's Canadian Leadership Conference