The Guelph Chamber of Commerce will host its 2026 Economic Summit on January 22, 2026, at Cutten Fields in Guelph, aiming to give local business owners a clear road map amid shifting interest rates, housing shortages and shifting industrial markets. Announced more than a year in advance on the Chamber’s event listing, the summit marks a shift toward long-term planning for the region’s private sector. Organizers say the event will blend expert analysis with networking to help businesses navigate the year ahead.
Key leadership will include incoming board member Jonathan Cohen, President at Benmet Steel & Metal Inc., and a yet-to-be-named successor to outgoing President & CEO Shakiba Shayani, who is stepping down after five years. Sponsors such as RBC Wealth Management and BI Worldwide Canada have already signed on to support the gathering, which follows a series of “Business After 5” evenings in late 2025.
Summit sessions will feature economists, municipal officials and industry experts presenting on topics that include regional growth trends, municipal and provincial policy impacts, and strategies for supply-chain resilience. The City of Guelph Economic Development Office often supplies recent employment and construction data to frame discussions, while panel discussions and networking opportunities aim to spark new partnerships.
“Supporting our members through the challenging economic climate is top priority for the Chamber Board and team,” said Andy Veilleux, President & CEO of the Guelph Chamber, in the 2025-2026 Board announcement. Mayor Cam Guthrie has also warned that recent tariffs “threaten our local economy and the hardworking businesses that are the backbone of our great city,” underscoring the need for a collective response at the summit.
Local businesses say they look to the summit for actionable policy guidance, a clearer market outlook and fresh contacts to bolster growth. Organizers expect the event to set the tone for Guelph’s economic recovery, offering both private-sector priorities and a preview of themes in the Mayor’s annual State of the City address in February.
