Canada–Africa International Business Relations (Advancing Trade, Innovation and Cross-Border Collaboration)

The Canada–Africa International Business Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Canada–Africa International Business Relations event. If you are serious about building stronger links between Canada and African markets, this is where the right conversations happen. You will hear what is working now, what challenges businesses face, and how to move forward with clear next steps.

Each year, this gathering creates space for relationship building between both regions. Entrepreneurs, SMEs, investors, policymakers, and professionals will find it especially useful. So, if you are interested in trade, innovation, or business relations, this event gives you a chance to meet the right people. Join the discussion and take part in building meaningful business connections.

Event Details:

Title: Canada–Africa International Business Relations (Advancing Trade, Innovation, and Cross-Border Collaboration)

Date: Thursday, May 21, 2026

Time: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Venue: Hampton Inn by Hilton Ottawa Airport
2869 Gibford Drive, Ottawa, Ontario

Registration: Free (Advance registration required)

Who Should Attend?

This event is for individuals and organizations involved in, or exploring, business and institutional connections between Canada and Africa. It is especially relevant for those looking to understand market opportunities, build partnerships, and engage in meaningful cross-border collaboration. Here is who can attend and benefit most from this event.

Government officials and policymakers

Ambassadors and diplomatic representatives

Business leaders and corporate executives

Entrepreneurs, startups, and SME founders

Investors and venture capital professionals

Trade and investment advisors

Technology and innovation professionals

Academics and researchers in international business

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)

Media professionals and industry voices

What Does the Program Include?

For real discussion, shared learning, and meaningful connections, this Canadian event brings together focused sessions and interactive activities. From keynote speeches to networking sessions, every part of the event supports clear conversation and useful takeaways. Here are the sessions and activities the program includes.

Keynote Address: Keynote sessions will highlight the importance of Canada–Africa international business relations. With a focus on business, technology, culture, and economic cooperation, the session sets the tone for the day. Speakers will share perspectives drawn from real experience to add value in every moment.

Expert Panel Discussion: Experienced professionals from different sectors will discuss real opportunities and challenges faced by SMEs and start-up businesses working between Canada and African markets. The panel encourages open conversation, shared experiences, and practical viewpoints that help participants better understand cross-border business dynamics.

Interactive Workshops: Small group workshops provide a space for hands-on discussion around market entry, partnership building, and collaboration strategies. Participants can ask questions, exchange ideas, and learn from real examples that reflect everyday business situations across international markets.

International Business and Management Sessions: These sessions explore topics such as trade readiness, leadership, innovation, and managing growth across borders. Discussions are grounded in real-world experience and aim to support better decision-making for professionals involved in international business.

Structured Networking Opportunities: Planned networking time allows participants to meet business leaders, investors, diplomats, and institutional partners. Conversations are encouraged in a relaxed setting, helping attendees build connections that may lead to future collaboration, partnerships, or professional engagement.

Event Schedule

The day is planned to flow smoothly from one session to the next, keeping the experience engaging and easy to follow. Time is balanced between learning, discussion, and interaction, with regular breaks that allow participants to reflect, connect, and stay energized throughout the program. Take a look at the schedule before joining the event.

Registration and Lunch | 12:00 PM – 12:15 PM

Participants arrive, complete registration, and enjoy a light lunch while settling in and connecting informally with other attendees.

Opening Remarks | 12:15 PM – 12:40 PM

Opening remarks by the Conference Chair on the importance of the Canada–Africa relationship, setting the context for the day’s discussions and objectives.

Feature Session | 12:40 PM – 1:10 PM

Connecting Canada and Africa – Empowering Business, Technology, Culture, and Beyond.

Keynote address by Dr. Afzalur Rahman, focusing on cross-border collaboration and shared opportunities between Canada and Africa.

Break | 1:10 PM – 1:20 PM

Executive Track

Workshop | 1:20 PM – 2:20 PM

Building Cross-Border Partnerships Between Canada and Africa.

This practical workshop focused on partnership development, collaboration models, and real-world approaches to working across markets.

Panel Discussion | 2:20 PM – 3:20 PM

Empowering SMEs and Startups in Canada–Africa Markets

Panelists share insights on growth challenges, funding, and market access for small and growing businesses.

Break | 3:20 PM – 3:30 PM

Academic Track

Technical Session 1 | 3:30 PM – 3:50 PM

International Business and Marketing

Author presentation by Diallo Alhassane, focusing on research and practical perspectives in international business.

Technical Session 2 | 3:50 PM – 4:10 PM

International Business and Marketing

Continuation of academic discussions and research insights.

Break | 4:10 PM – 4:20 PM

Keynote Sessions

Keynote Speech 2 | 4:20 PM – 4:40 PM

Accounting and Financial Management

Keynote address by Ananya Chakraborty, covering financial planning and management in international business contexts.

Keynote Speech 3 | 4:40 PM – 5:00 PM

Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Environmental Sustainability

Keynote address by Dawn John Mullassery, focusing on sustainability, agriculture, and environmental responsibility across global markets.

Closing Segment

Photo Session and Certificate Ceremony | 5:00 PM – 5:20 PM

Group photos and certificate distribution to mark participation.

Closing Remarks | 5:20 PM – 5:30 PM
Testimonials and Reflections | 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Participants share feedback and experiences from the day.

Why Attend the Canada–Africa International Business Relations Event?

You’re coming to learn what’s working right now, meet people who are actually doing cross-border business, and walk away with clearer direction. So, you can expect useful insight, real conversation, and connections that can turn into something practical after the event. Here are the reasons why you should attend this event.

Cross-Border Trade and Investment

Want to understand where the real opportunities are between Canada and Africa? You’ll hear how trade and investment work in practice, what blocks progress, and what helps deals move forward. Take away ideas you can apply when exploring partners, markets, and investment paths across both regions.

SME and Startup Growth

If you run a small business or a startup, this event speaks your language. You’ll learn how others are growing across borders, what mistakes to avoid, and what support can make expansion easier. Meet people who can open doors, share lessons, and help you think bigger.

Knowledge Exchange and Innovation

Fresh ideas come from real stories, not just slides. You’ll hear practical examples of innovation, technology use, and new approaches shaping Canada–Africa business relations. Ask questions, compare experiences, and pick up insights you can take back to your work, your team, or your next project.

Long-Term Partnerships and Collaboration

Good partnerships start with the right conversations. You’ll meet decision-makers, industry experts, and professionals who value long-term cooperation, not quick wins. Use the networking time to build trust, find aligned goals, and start relationships that can grow into lasting commercial or institutional collaboration.

Want to Attend or Have a Question?

Seats are limited, so it’s best to register early, even though entry is free. If you’re unsure about anything or you’d like to learn more before signing up, just reach out. Our team will guide you and share the details you need.

Phone: +1 236 477 8411
Email: contact@canadaafricachamber.ca.

Registration Form:

If you’re interested in joining, fill out the registration form below to confirm your attendance. We are not providing any invitation letter for this event right now. So, make sure to reserve your spot through the registration before seats fill up.