In the world of professional growth, one thing remains constant: the power of networking. Whether you’re looking to expand your connections, find a mentor, or secure your next career opportunity, attending the right events can make all the difference. As the nation’s capital, Ottawa offers a wide array of networking opportunities across different industries. From business expos to tech meetups, there’s something for everyone in 2025.
Here’s a curated list of seven beneficial networking events happening in Ottawa during the first half of 2025.
1. Building Our Future: Celebrating Black Innovators, Founders and Leaders
Date: February 28th, 2025
Location: Brookstreet Hotel (Kanata)
Organized by Invest Ottawa, this event honours Black History Month with an in-person roundtable discussion from key leaders and an audience Q&A focused on celebrating the talent and achievements of Black innovators, entrepreneurs, and businesses. This is a free event but does encourage registration.
2. International Women’s Day on the Hill 2025
Date: March 6th, 2025
Location: Parliament Hill – Sir John A. Macdonald Building
Celebrate International Women’s Day by attending a truly exceptional event hosted by Elevate International and presented by RBC. Our team at LRO Staffing has attended this event multiple times over the past few years and can speak first-hand to the quality of the speakers who share their inspirational stories. This is a free event but tickets must be acquired beforehand.
3. Global Conference on Business Management and Economics
Date: March 30th, 2025
Location: Best Western Plus Gatineau, 131 Rue Laurier
The Global Conference on Business Management and Economics brings together entrepreneurs, business leaders, and industry experts for a day of knowledge-sharing and networking. This year’s theme is “Driving Innovation and Resilience in Global Business and Economic Systems” and explores particularly relevant topics such as inflation, trade dynamics, ESG practices and the impact of AI and big data on business. This event does have an associated cost, and tickets must be purchased beforehand.
4. Tech Tuesday Meetups
Date: Monthly (First Tuesday of Every Month)
Location: Varies depending on the month/event
If you’re in the tech industry – or want to break into it – these casual yet impactful events are perfect for you! Taking place on the first Tuesday of each month, Tech Tuesday aims to connect employees, employers, investors, students and new graduates. The events typically include presentations by local tech startups, Q&A sessions, and plenty of time for mingling. Spots fill up fast so make sure that you register in advance.
5. OCA Construction Symposium and Tradeshow
Date: April 16th, 2025
Location: EY Centre
Hosted by the Ottawa Construction Association, the 5th annual Construction Symposium and Tradeshow is a stellar opportunity for attending educational sessions, meeting exhibitors, and networking with a wide range of expert builders, suppliers, designers and purchasers. You can learn more and register here.
6. SocialHRCamp Ottawa: Think Like An Owner
Date: April 30th, 2025
Location: Invest Ottawa (Bayview Yards)
An event tailored for Human Resources and business leaders, this Think Like An Owner session aims to improve overall business acumen by broadening perspectives, deepening business acumen, and connecting like-minded professionals. This interactive event involves break-out sessions, a panel of experts, and plenty of networking opportunities with individuals committed to influencing all aspects of business operations. To secure your tickets, follow the link.
7. Canadian Bar Association IP Day and Federal Courts Judges’ Dinner
Date: May 29th, 2025
Location: Delta Hotels Ottawa City Centre
A premier event for intellectual property lawyers across Canada, this event is a unique opportunity to learn from an expert panel of speakers about current IP topics and includes group rates for firms/organizations. Taking place that evening is also the CBA Federal Courts Judges’ Dinner which is an opportunity for junior and senior members of the bar to meet and mingle. Registration is required for both.
Networking is more than exchanging business cards – it’s about building meaningful relationships that can open doors to new opportunities. Whether you’re just starting your career or are a seasoned professional, attending events like these can help you grow your network and elevate your career.
For additional job market insights or to speak with one of our expert recruitment professionals, contact us today.
