Canada is at a pivotal moment. Communities across the country are navigating interconnected challenges related to housing affordability, infrastructure renewal, economic resilience, climate adaptation, and quality of life. The decisions made today will shape the competitiveness, prosperity, and resilience of Canada’s communities for decades to come.

While these challenges may be national in scope, their impacts are felt locally and many of the most promising solutions are already emerging in communities across Canada. Addressing these issues will require stronger collaboration across governments, industry, Indigenous communities, researchers, practitioners, and civil society.

On November 12–13, 2026, the Canadian Urban Institute will convene the fourth State of Canada’s Cities Summit, bringing together leaders from government, business, academia, Indigenous communities, non-profits, and civil society to identify practical solutions to Canada’s most pressing urban and community challenges.

Building on insights gathered through regional roundtables across the country, the Summit will translate local experiences into a national conversation focused on action, investment, and implementation. Participants will explore the policies, partnerships, and innovations needed to strengthen communities, grow local economies, build more housing choices, modernize infrastructure, and improve quality of life across Canada.

Join 500+ leaders from more than 200 organizations and 40+ municipalities as we explore what it will take to create better places for a better Canada.