Canada to host first global investment summit as government targets $1 trillion in capital inflows

The Canada Investment Summit, scheduled for September 14-15 in Toronto, will bring together top global investors, chief executives and business leaders to channel funding into key sectors, including clean energy, critical minerals and artificial intelligence.

The initiative forms part of Ottawa’s broader strategy to catalyse up to $1 trillion in total investment over the next five years, combining public spending, private capital and institutional funding.

The summit will be hosted in partnership with major institutional investors, including the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and the Public Sector Pension Investment Board.

Government officials say the move comes as global competition for capital intensifies amid shifting supply chains and geopolitical uncertainty.

Canada is positioning itself as a stable destination for foreign direct investment, citing its strong fiscal position, skilled workforce and access to international markets.

Over the past year, Canada has secured more than $97 billion in foreign investment commitments and signed over 20 economic and defence partnerships, according to government data.

The summit will focus on financing large “nation-building” projects, particularly in energy, mining and advanced technologies.

Officials said recent referrals to the government’s Major Projects Office include investments in nuclear energy, liquefied natural gas and critical minerals such as nickel, graphite and tungsten, with a combined value exceeding $126 billion.

Canada also aims to leverage its trade network, spanning 51 countries and 1.5 billion consumers, to attract investors seeking market access and supply chain diversification.

Speaking ahead of the summit, Carney said the initiative is designed to “drive billions in new investments,” creating high-paying jobs and strengthening economic resilience.

Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu said the event signals Canada’s intent to play a larger role in shaping global investment flows at a time of “unprecedented trade disruption.”

The government said its own capital commitments, estimated at $280 billion over five years,are expected to unlock significantly larger private and institutional investments as part of the broader strategy.