Theme and Focus Areas

Central Theme: “Connecting Subnational Leadership, Investment Diplomacy, and Sustainable Prosperity Between Canada and Africa.”

This theme highlights the urgent global demand for decentralized investment diplomacy, with subnational leaders such as Premiers, Governors, and Regional Executives acting as agents of change toward shared prosperity. It reflects a collaborative approach that combines Africa’s significant growth prospects with Canada’s established innovative governance and sustainable industrialization strategies.

The theme focuses on mutual prosperity through local-global coordination, highlighting that future growth depends on provinces and states collaborating across borders to attract investment and build resilient, inclusive economies.

Sub-Themes and Strategic Pillars

1. Infrastructure and Industrial Hubs Development

• Enhancing public-private partnerships for investments in roads, ports, railways, and smart infrastructure.
• Fostering sustainable industrial clusters across African subnational regions in collaboration with Canadian provinces.
• Enhancing capacity development for infrastructure financing and project implementation.

2. Climate-Smart and Green Investments

• Incorporating environmental governance, renewable energy, and sustainable technologies into local economic planning.
• Mobilizing climate finance and promoting clean energy collaborations between Canada’s and African subnational governments.

3. Cross-Border Trade and Export Promotion

• Connecting provincial trade missions, chambers of commerce, and export promotion councils throughout Canada and Africa.
• Developing policy frameworks that facilitate trade corridors, resource exchanges, and value chain connections.

4. Regional Partnerships and Resource Management

• Developing cooperative strategies for sustainable regional natural resource management.
• Facilitating the exchange of knowledge in the areas of mining governance, agriculture, and water management.

5. Smart Cities, Digital Economy, and Youth Employment

• Encouraging digital innovation, governance based on data, and entrepreneurship led by youth.
• Integrating technology transfer initiatives and innovation hubs across Canadian and African provinces.

6. Investment Facilitation and Subnational Diplomacy

• Establishing trade and investment offices at the provincial and state levels.
• Enabling direct investor engagement and streamlining deal flow via the “CA-PGIR-DMF Deal Room.”

Objectives and Expected Outcomes

The Canada–Africa Premiers & Governors Investment Roundtable and Deals Matchmaking Forum seeks to position subnational leaders as key drivers of bilateral economic partnerships between Canada and Africa, emphasizing practical, measurable, and transformative outcomes.

Core Objectives

1. To establish a framework for Canada–Africa Subnational Economic Cooperation that facilitates direct trade and investment connections between provinces and states.
2. Aim to enhance provincial and regional investment diplomacy by enabling Premiers and Governors to steer development negotiations and draw in cross-border investments.
3. Implement the AfCFTA and CA-ECS at subnational levels by adapting continental and bilateral frameworks to local contexts.
4. To facilitate signing MoUs, investment agreements, and technical cooperation deals via the organized Deal Room.
5. To establish a multi-sectoral platform for dialogue, networking, and innovation exchange among policymakers, investors, and industry leaders.
6. To initiate the formation of the Canada–Africa Premiers and Governors Network (CAGPN) to promote ongoing collaboration and oversee the progress of project.
7. Aim to position Africa’s and Canada’s subnational economies as credible, stable, and globally competitive hubs for investment and industrial collaborations.

Expected Outcomes

At the conclusion of the Forum, it is expected that the CA-PGIR-DMF will produce the following measurable outcomes:

1. High-Level MoUs and Investment Agreements Signed

• Established formal partnerships between Canadian provinces and African countries in sectors like agriculture, energy, mining, and infrastructure.

2. Creation of a Sustainable Canada–Africa Subnational Cooperation Framework

• The Canada–Africa Governors & Premiers Network (CAGPN) has been institutionalized to facilitate post-event coordination and monitoring.

3. Increased FDI Commitments and Trade Facilitation Initiatives

• Mobilized over $3 billion in investment pledges through direct negotiations in the Deal Room.

4. Enhanced Subnational Policy Frameworks

• Enhancement of legal and institutional frameworks that support trade, public-private partnerships (PPPs), and cross-border business facilitation.

5. Establishment of the CA-PGIR-DMF Investment Secretariat

• A permanent entity responsible for coordinating, verifying deals, and tracking partnerships throughout subsequent CASP cycles.

6. Expanded Access to Technology, Innovation, and Technical Assistance

• Partnerships have been formed between Canadian institutions and African subnational governments focusing on smart governance, innovation hubs, and human capital development.

7. Positive Global Media Impact and Branding of Participants

• Increase visibility of involved provinces, states, and private companies via international media coverage, publications, and strategic storytelling.

8. Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063 Implementation

• Tangible contributions to SDGs 8, 9, 11, and 17 via economic inclusion, industrialization, sustainable infrastructure, and partnerships for the goals.

Roles of Strategic Stakeholders

The success of the CA-PGIR-DMF depends on the collaborative efforts of various governance levels and institutional stakeholders, whose strategic roles are both complementary and transformative.

Premiers and Governors (Lead Stakeholders)

Premiers and Governors are the principal drivers and lead advocates of subnational economic transformation. Their participation in the CA-PGIR-DMF is essential to creating a politically enabling environment for investment and partnerships.

Roles include:

• Promoting the display of subnational investment portfolios and bankable projects.
• Negotiating and finalizing investment MoUs with Canadian partners and global investors.
• Coordinating the alignment of policies and cooperation frameworks among relevant MDAs.
• Acting as goodwill ambassadors for their provinces and states to promote trade and investment.
• Establishing subnational investment promotion desks for follow-up after events and project execution.

Under their leadership, the CA-PGIR-DMF will act as a catalyst for regional industrialization, innovation ecosystems, and inclusive prosperity on both continents.

Canadian Premiers and Provincial Governments

Canadian Premiers and their provinces serve as essential hosts, facilitators, and investment partners within the CA-PGIR-DMF framework. As leaders of provincial governments, their involvement is crucial in connecting Canada’s sophisticated innovation ecosystem, industrial infrastructure, and trade capabilities with Africa’s developing markets.

Roles include:

• Showcasing successful Canadian provincial models and partnership opportunities.
• Facilitating knowledge exchange and technical support programs between provinces and African partners.
• Hosting investment tours, trade missions, and provincial exhibitions during the Forum.
• Collaborating with African regional governments on green economy initiatives and industrial technology exchange.

Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs)

The MDAs serve as the policy backbone and technical facilitators of the Forum. Their involvement guarantees institutional coherence, provides regulatory guidance, and helps sustain partnerships.

Roles include:

• Establishing policy frameworks and ensuring coordination between national and subnational levels.
• Facilitating the formalization of signed agreements and aligning them with national development priorities.
• Providing institutional support to the participating Governors and Premiers.
• Managing visa facilitation, logistics, and diplomatic clearances for delegates.
• Participating in thematic policy roundtables to shape future investment strategies.

Organized Private Sector (OPS) and Industry Leaders

The private sector acts as the engine for innovation, productivity, and deal-making. Their involvement shifts the Forum from mere dialogue to actual transactions, making sure the event stays focused on business and impact.

Roles include:

• Presenting investment opportunities, partnership proposals, and financing options.
• Participating in the “Deals Matchmaking Forum” and networking events.
• Collaborating with subnational governments to create PPP infrastructure models.
• Sponsoring themed sessions, exhibitions, and deal room activities.
• Facilitating follow-up actions via joint ventures and international enterprise collaborations.

Development Partners and Financial Institutions

International development agencies, multilateral institutions, and financial organizations play vital roles in facilitating deal financing, providing guarantees, and ensuring project sustainability.

Roles include:

• Providing financing options and risk mitigation strategies for investment projects.
• Helping subnational governments develop bankable project portfolios.
• Offering technical support, capacity development, and advisory services.
• Working together to evaluate and monitor the results of MoU implementation.

Chambers of Commerce, Business Councils, and Trade Promotion Bodies

These institutions act as the connecting points among the private sector, government, and investors.

Roles include:

• Organizing trade missions and B2B matchmaking activities during the Forum.
• Assisting member companies with deal preparation and negotiations.
• Organizing sector-specific exhibitions and product showcases at the Investment Pavilion.
• Maintaining business connections through post-event networking platforms.

The CASP Secretariat and CA-PGIR-DMF Investment Secretariat

The CASP Secretariat, in partnership with the CA-PGIR-DMF Investment Secretariat, acts as the main coordinating body responsible for organizing events, curating content, facilitating partnerships, and conducting post-forum follow-up.

Core Functions:

• Handling logistics, registration, and coordination of senior delegates.
• Overseeing the Deal Room process, including pre-screening projects, pairing partners, and coordinating MoU signings.
• Drafting the official post-forum communiqué and outcome documentation.
• Tracking the implementation of impact via the CASP Follow-Up Mechanism.

Program Components and Activities

The Canada–Africa Premiers & Governors Investment Roundtable & Deals Matchmaking Forum (CA-PGIR-DMF) is a complex, multi-faceted event. It combines high-level policy discussions, executive networking, structured deal-making, and diplomatic receptions, all focused on turning dialogue into tangible action and commitments into concrete economic results. The program is carefully organized to promote policy consistency, attract investments, and foster cultural diplomacy over six days.

Opening Ceremony and Keynote Plenary

The Opening Ceremony officially begins the CA-PGIR-DMF and establishes the tone for the week-long event.

It will feature:

• Keynote speech delivered by a prominent Canadian Premier and an esteemed African Governor.
• Special speeches delivered by heads of government, high commissioners, and representatives of development partners.
• Opening remarks by the CASP Secretariat, outlining the week’s agenda, objectives, and expectations.
• Flag Presentation Ceremony representing Canada–Africa partnership and regional unity.
• Cultural performances celebrating Canada’s multicultural heritage and Africa’s rich traditions.

Leading international media outlets will cover this session to ensure broad visibility and diplomatic recognition.

Thematic Roundtable Sessions

The Thematic Roundtables will focus on key policy and investment topics influencing the Canada–Africa subnational cooperation agenda. Each session will be co-chaired by a Canadian Premier and an African Governor, involving MDAs, private sector leaders, and development partners.

Roundtable Themes include:

1. Infrastructure, Industrialization, and Urban Transformation
2. Green Economy, Climate Resilience, and Clean Energy Transitions
3. Agribusiness, Food Security, and Export Diversification
4. Mining, Solid Minerals, and Sustainable Resource Management
5. Digital Economy, Smart Cities, and Innovation Partnerships
6. Women and Youth Inclusion in Subnational Economic Development

The outcomes of the roundtables will be compiled into a Canada–Africa Subnational Cooperation Declaration, which will serve as the foundation for future MoU frameworks and policy alignment.

The Deals Matchmaking Forum (DMF)

The Deals Matchmaking Forum (DMF) is the main investment platform of the CA-PGIR-DMF, a structured, results-driven space where subnational governments and investors directly participate in deal negotiations, project evaluations, and MoU signings.

The DMF is meant to make sure each participating province, state, or regional government leaves the Forum with real partnership results.

Key Features of the DMF include:

• Pre-Screened Project Catalog: Participating governments will submit pre-vetted, bankable project profiles across sectors for inclusion in the official CA-PGIR-DMF Investment Portfolio.
• Investor-Government One-on-One Sessions: Held within the Deal Room to enable private discussions between investors and project owners.
• Financial Closure and MoU Signing: On-site documentation and ceremonial signing of agreements, organized by the CASP Investment Secretariat.
• Expert Advisory Panels: Internal legal, technical, and financial specialists will deliver real-time guidance to both parties throughout negotiations.
• Deal Tracking and Documentation: A dedicated post-forum team will monitor and record all finalized deals for inclusion in the CASP 2026 Official Investment Compendium.

This part of the Forum is what earns it the prestigious title – “Deal-Closing & MoU-Signing Marathon.”

Executive Workshops and Policy Dialogues

A series of targeted workshops and policy dialogues will take place alongside the main sessions, focusing on:

• Strengthening subnational capacity for project development and PPP management.
• Enhancing governance frameworks for sustainable investment.
• Facilitating the transfer of knowledge between Canadian and African public institutions.
• Addressing policy bottlenecks to improve trade and investment facilitation.

Networking Receptions and Business Dinners

The CA-PGIR-DMF understands that relationships foster investments. Therefore, several networking activities will be incorporated throughout the event, enabling delegates to connect, build trust, and discover synergies in a relaxed yet professional setting.

Highlights include:

• Welcome Cocktail Reception: An exclusive networking event for early arrivals and VIP delegates.
• Business-to-Business (B2B) Mixer: A focused session bringing together corporate executives, project financiers, and business council leaders.
• Regional Focus Receptions: Including sessions for Canada-West Africa, Canada-East Africa, Canada–Southern Africa, and Canada–North Africa to facilitate region-specific matchmaking.
• Premier’s Gala Dinner: A distinguished banquet that brings together Heads of Delegations, senior officials, and investors to celebrate the partnerships formed throughout the week.

Cultural Night and After Party

To celebrate cultural diplomacy, the Cultural Night and After Party will showcase performances by Canadian and African artists, fostering social connections and emphasizing the role of cultural identity in uniting economies. The event will provide a laid-back but purposeful space for delegates to network outside formal environments, promoting enduring friendships and collaborations.

Exhibition Pavilion: The Trade & Investment Showcase

A parallel Exhibition Pavilion will feature:

• Subnational Investment Booths: Presenting regional projects, policy documents, and trade opportunities.
• Corporate Showcases: Exhibitions by banks, developers, technology companies, and manufacturing giants.
• Innovation Labs: Showcases of startups and digital solutions from both continents.

This pavilion will act as a living showcase of Canada–Africa collaboration, highlighting innovation, sustainability, and opportunity.

Closing Ceremony

The Closing Ceremony will summarize the week’s results, reveal the MoU signings, and present the Ottawa Declaration on Canada–Africa Subnational Cooperation.

Awards will be given to outstanding delegates and provinces or states that showcased exceptional partnership innovation, followed by a press conference and farewell reception.

Concept and Functionality

The Deal Room serves as the core feature of the CA-PGIR-DMF, offering a secure, confidential, and goal-oriented space where actual transactions are started, negotiated, and completed.

Unlike traditional investment summits that merely conclude with pledges, the Deal Room redefines the CA-PGIR-DMF as a proactive, deal-focused platform that prioritizes execution and tangible economic results.

Structure of the Deal Room

The Deal Room will function under the CA-PGIR-DMF Investment Secretariat, organized as follows:

1. Deal Intake Desk: Handles and classifies pre-screened project submissions from participating governments and private entities.
2. Investor Engagement Unit: Connects submitted projects with suitable investors or financing partners.
3. Negotiation Chambers: Private suites for one-on-one or small group discussions with legal and technical advisory support.
4. MoU Drafting and Signing Station: Features document preparation tools and notarization desks for immediate documentation.
5. The Deal Validation Committee: It will include financial analysts, PPP specialists, and CASP technical officers who ensure compliance and bankability.
6. Monitoring and Evaluation Unit: Handles follow-up after events, tracking deal progress, and preparing reports.

Strategic Benefits of the Deal Room

1. Direct Access to Decision-Makers: Investors connect directly with Premiers, Governors, and institutional leaders, speeding up project approval processes.
2. Transparency and accountability: The process guarantees traceability and oversight via official validation and documentation protocols.
3. Investment Confidence: Operating under the CASP Secretariat, the Deal Room boosts investor confidence and maintains institutional credibility.
4. Outcome-Driven Results: Each session ends with concrete deliverables, MoUs, LOIs, joint venture frameworks, or funding agreements.
5. Streamlined Bureaucracy: Negotiations avoid administrative delays, allowing quick decisions on project funding and technical partnerships.
6. Enhanced Regional Branding: Participating subnational governments receive international recognition as attractive investment destinations.
7. Legacy Continuity: Agreements signed at the Forum contribute to CASP’s yearly follow-up processes, ensuring lasting implementation.

The Deal-Closing & MoU-Signing Marathon

This key event in the Forum is called the “Deal-Closing & MoU-Signing Marathon.” It highlights the CA-PGIR-DMF’s move from policy discussion to active implementation.

During this session:

• All validated deals and partnership agreements are officially signed in front of media, officials, and CASP Secretariat representatives.
• The ceremony will be broadcast worldwide, highlighting tangible results of Canada–Africa collaboration.
• Official reports will outline total investment amounts, key sectors, and beneficiary regions.

This session will mark the culmination of the CA-PGIR-DMF, ushering in a new era of subnational investment diplomacy and operational collaboration.

Planning Guidelines and Coordination Framework

Implementing a program of this size demands a strategic, inclusive, and multi-agency planning framework. The CA-PGIR-DMF will be managed by the CASP Secretariat and supported by various strategic committees and institutional partners.

Planning and Coordination Committees

1. Central Planning Committee (CPC):

• Oversees overall coordination, approvals, and stakeholder engagement under the CASP Secretariat leadership.

2. Program Design and Technical Committee:

• Responsible for thematic session planning, speaker selection, and content curation.

3. Investment and Deal Room Committee:

• Manages project screening, investor engagement, and deal documentation.

4. Protocol and Logistics Committee:

• Handles delegate invitations, visas, hotel arrangements, transport, and on-site logistics.

5. Media, Communications, and Branding Committee:

• Manages publicity, press coverage, visual identity, and branding of the event.

6. Sponsorship and Partnerships Committee:

• Mobilizes corporate sponsors, institutional partners, and donor support.

Implementation Timeline

Communication and Reporting Lines

All correspondences, coordination, and official engagements will be handled by the CA-PGIR-DMF Secretariat, which is based within the CASP Secretariat in Ottawa.

Each government and institution involved will designate Focal Representatives to promote effective communication and engagement.

Participation Framework and Delegation Composition

The CA-PGIR-DMF is crafted as a strategic hub bringing together subnational policymakers, private investors, financial institutions, and international partners, all focused on promoting subnational economic diplomacy and deal-oriented collaboration.

Participation is designed to promote inclusivity, fairness, and representation across governance levels, while upholding the forum’s high standards.

Delegation Categories

1. Premiers & Governors:

Acting as the primary delegates, they represent provincial or state administrations with decision-making power over trade, infrastructure, and investment portfolios.

Each Premier or Governor delegation is responsible for leading their government’s investment presentations and deal negotiations.

2. Deputy Premiers/Deputy Governors & Commissioners:

Deputies and commissioners responsible for economic planning, finance, works, or industry accompany the delegation leader to manage sector-specific sessions.

3. Municipal/Regional Council Leaders:

Mayors, local government leaders, and regional development authorities taking part in the subnational synergy sessions

4. Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs):

Key MDAs involved in trade, investment promotion, energy, infrastructure, and public-private partnerships are invited to co-facilitate discussions and present investment frameworks.

5. Organized Private Sector (OPS) Delegates:

The private-sector delegation will be composed of corporate leaders, chambers of commerce, manufacturing associations, and business councils.

6. Financial Institutions & Investors:

Development finance institutions (DFIs), commercial banks, venture capital groups, and sovereign funds that are interested in bankable projects.

7. Academic & Research Institutions:

Universities, policy think tanks, and technical partners offering research-driven insights into regional investment opportunities.

8. Development Partners & Multilateral Agencies:

Representatives from international organizations like UNDP, AfDB, IFC, and Global Affairs Canada will offer strategic guidance and support for partnerships.

Expected Representation

Each participating province or state is expected to assemble an official delegation of 5–10 members, led by:

• The Premier or Governor
• Commissioner/Minister for Economic Development or Investment
• Director-General of Investment Promotion Agency
• Private sector representatives
• Technical and advisory officers

This guarantees a well-rounded combination of policy authority, technical expertise, and investment readiness.

Participation Fees and Cost Implications (USD)

Participation in this high-level international forum requires payment of the specified subscription and facilitation fees through official CASP channels, due to the necessary logistical, organizational, and diplomatic infrastructure.

All fees are listed in United States Dollars (USD) and cover forum materials, access to all sessions, official receptions, and participation in the Deals Matchmaking Forum and Exhibition Pavilion.

Note: Fees do not include international travel and accommodation costs, but the CASP Secretariat will provide a list of accredited hotels, visa support documentation, and local transportation arrangements.

Programme Timeline and Structure

The CA-PGIR-DMF will take place over six days of organized activities as part of the larger Canada–Africa Strategic Programs (CASP), scheduled from June 22 to 27, 2026, at the EY Centre in Ottawa, Canada.

Day-by-Day Program Flow

Expected Outcomes and Impact Dimensions

The CA-PGIR-DMF aims to achieve transformative outcomes that support the objectives of the Canada-Africa Economic Cooperation Strategy (CA-ECS) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) subnational implementation plan.

Tangible Deliverables

1. Investment & Trade Agreements: At least $2–5 billion USD in MoUs, project commitments, and joint ventures across key sectors.
2. Subnational Partnership Frameworks: More than 20 provincial or state partnerships between Canada and Africa have been established or enhanced through direct cooperation agreements.
3. Publication of the Ottawa Declaration: An official statement outlining new directions for Canada–Africa subnational cooperation.
4. Launch of the Canada–Africa Subnational Cooperation Platform (CASCP): A permanent framework for intergovernmental exchange, research, and project support.
5. Official CASP 2026 Investment Compendium: Documentation of all validated deals, highlighting investment success stories and collaboration models.

Strategic Impact Areas

1. Policy Convergence: Standardization of regional economic frameworks for trade, investment, and innovation.
2. Economic Diplomacy: Enhancing the role of Premiers and Governors as primary economic diplomats in global engagement.
3. Job Creation & Industrialization: Speeding up the development of industrial hubs, growth of SMEs, and job opportunities across participating provinces and states.
4. Technology & Knowledge Transfer: Improved collaboration between Canadian institutions and African agencies for digital innovation and smart city development.
5. Gender & Youth Inclusion: Connecting women and young entrepreneurs to investment networks and deal pipelines.
6. Climate and Green Investment: Supporting renewable energy, waste-to-wealth initiatives, and sustainable urban development.
7. Cultural Diplomacy: Leveraging cultural exchange and creative industries to promote mutual understanding and boost tourism growth.

Legacy and Sustainability Framework

The CA-PGIR-DMF is not a one-time event; it is an ongoing institution-building process integrated into the broader Canada–Africa Strategic Programs (CASP) framework.

The outcomes will feed into:

• The Canada–Africa Annual Subnational Investment Review.
• A Joint Canada–Africa Investment Observatory Portal, tracking partnerships and project performance.
• The creation of Regional Investment Desks in select African and Canadian provinces for continuous engagement.

The long-term objective is to establish the CA-PGIR-DMF as a biennial, officially institutionalized forum, ensuring regular collaboration between Canada’s provinces and subnational entities in Africa.

Media Visibility and Branding

Due to its diplomatic and investment significance, the Forum will be covered by:

• CBC Canada, CTV, Reuters, Bloomberg Africa, CNBC Africa, and other leading African national media.
• CASP Media Centre offers real-time updates, live streaming, and a digital press room.
• An official event documentary will be released after the event, showcasing highlights, interviews, and key deal milestones.

Strategic media partnerships will highlight the Forum as an important milestone in Canada–Africa subnational diplomacy, emphasizing Ottawa’s role as a hub for global investment collaboration.

The Canada–Africa Premiers & Governors Investment Roundtable & Deals Matchmaking Forum (CA-PGIR-DMF) marks a significant step forward in fostering practical and sustainable subnational cooperation between Canada and Africa. By integrating trade, governance, and investment diplomacy, it aims to transform how regional leaders connect with global markets, converting ideas into investments and commitments into tangible results.

The CASP Secretariat encourages Premiers, Governors, MDAs, and institutional partners to actively embrace this transformative agenda, fostering connections of shared prosperity between Canada and Africa.

Sponsorship and Partnership Architecture

The CA-PGIR-DMF provides an unmatched opportunity for institutions, corporations, and development partners to gain maximum brand visibility, policy access, and investment prospects within a prominent diplomatic environment. Sponsorships are tailored to strategically align with corporate goals while delivering measurable brand and partnership outcomes.

Sponsorship Categories and Benefits

Institutional Partnership Opportunities

Strategic partnerships will be open to the following entities:

• Multilateral and Bilateral Development Agencies (e.g., Global Affairs Canada, UNDP, AfDB, IFC)
• Financial Institutions and DFIs (e.g., EDC Canada, Afreximbank, AfDB)
• Corporate Entities and Industry Associations (in infrastructure, energy, trade, and manufacturing)
• Academic and Research Collaboratives (policy think tanks, innovation hubs)
• Media Partners and Communication Agencies

These institutions will serve in advisory, technical, or promotional capacities, supporting the sustainability and ongoing operation of the CA-PGIR-DMF beyond its first year.

Institutional Endorsements and Advisory Support

Considering its multi-tiered and diplomatic structure, the CA-PGIR-DMF will aim to secure endorsements and advisory involvement from key governmental, intergovernmental, and corporate institutions on both sides of the Atlantic.

Expected Institutional Endorsers

• Government of Canada (Global Affairs Canada)
• African Union Commission (AUC)
• Pan-African Parliament (PAP)
• Council of the Federation – Canada (Premiers’ Council)
• Forum of African Governors and Regional Chairpersons (FAGRC)
• African Development Bank (AfDB)
• Export Development Canada (EDC)
• UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA)
• Canadian Chamber of Commerce & Industry
• Africa Industrialization Group Inc. (AIGI)
• Pan-African Trade, Investment and Export Promotion Council (PATIEPC)
• Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM)
• Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC)

These endorsements will strengthen the CA-PGIR-DMF’s reputation as a prominent subnational investment diplomacy platform with worldwide importance.

Advisory Council Composition

An Advisory Council will be formed to guide the implementation, oversee activities, and ensure compliance with diplomatic standards and deliverables. The Council will include:

• Co-Chairs: A Canadian Premier and an African Governor
• Members: Representatives from CASP Secretariat, AfDB, Global Affairs Canada, UNDP, PATIEC, and AI-Group Inc. Holdings, etc.
• Secretariat: Managed by the CASP International Coordinating Office (Ottawa)

The Council will convene quarterly, either virtually or in person, to assess progress, endorse strategies, and review partnerships ahead of the 2026 Forum.

Implementation and Coordination Plan

The CA-PGIR-DMF will be carried out under the direct oversight and coordination of the Canada-Africa Strategic Programs Secretariat, which operates through its International Coordination Bureau in Ottawa and liaison offices throughout African subregions.

Organizational Structure

Implementation Phases

1. Phase 1: Pre-Event Coordination (Oct 2025 – April 2026)

• Stakeholder mapping, registration, and pre-deal alignment.
• Sponsorship and institutional endorsement drive.
• Media and branding rollout.
• Confirmation of MoU templates and investment frameworks.

2. Phase 2: Event Implementation (June 22–27, 2026)

• Six-day program as outlined (Roundtables, Deal Room, Gala Dinner, etc.).
• On-site coordination, media coverage, and partnership facilitation.
• Signing of “Ottawa Declaration” and MoUs.

3. Phase 3: Post-Event Follow-Up (July–Dec 2026)

• Documentation and dissemination of results.
• Launch of monitoring dashboard and virtual Deal Room portal.
• Implementation review and annual cooperation roadmap.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Sustainability Mechanism

To promote accountability and sustainability, the CASP Secretariat will create a Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Framework based on three key pillars:

1. Performance Metrics: Monitoring partnerships established, deals closed, and follow-up activities.
2. Impact Assessment: Evaluation of the socio-economic, institutional, and environmental outcomes of projects after completion.
3. Sustainability Loop: Incorporating lessons learned into future CASP cycles to ensure ongoing improvement and replication of successful models.

A Quarterly Progress Bulletin and an Annual Subnational Investment Report will record the overall results of all deals and policy alignments under the CA-PGIR-DMF framework.

Communication and Public Engagement Plan

To ensure transparency, visibility, and engagement, the communication strategy will include:

• Official Website & Digital Portal: For registration, MoU tracking, and investment profiling.
• Media Partnerships: Through global and continental news outlets (CBC, Reuters, CNBC Africa, Channels TV).
• Social Media Integration: Across LinkedIn, X, and YouTube for daily updates and feature interviews.

Brand Publications:

• The Canada–Africa Investment Review Journal (CAIRJ)
• The CASP Digest
• The Governors & Premiers Investment Bulletin

Each publication will act as a strategic communication tool, increasing visibility for sponsors, delegates, and partner institutions.

Institutional Benefits and Legacy Value

The CA-PGIR-DMF’s legacy will extend beyond conferences; it will establish subnational investment diplomacy between Canada and Africa. Its long-term benefits include:

1. Establishment of permanent bilateral economic desks across participating provinces and states.
2. Establishment of a Canada–Africa Subnational Investment Observatory to monitor emerging opportunities.
3. Establishment of the Canada–Africa Subnational Leaders Network (CASLN) for peer-to-peer collaboration.
4. Institutional Memorandum Series: Outlining and sharing official partnership frameworks for replication.
5. Capacity Building and Training Modules are delivered through CASP academies and specialized retreats focused on subnational investment.

Risk Mitigation and Strategic Alignment

Given the scale and scope of the Forum, a comprehensive risk management strategy will be applied, addressing:

• Logistical and diplomatic coordination risks.
• Financial accountability and sponsor transparency.
• Political or institutional disengagement is addressed through MoUs and advisory oversight.
• Data security and confidentiality during deal negotiations.

Strategic alignment will also be ensured with:

• AfCFTA Subnational Implementation Frameworks
• Canada–Africa Economic Cooperation Strategy (CA-ECS)
• UN SDGs (Goals 8, 9, 11, and 17)
• Agenda 2063 of the African Union

Provisional Timeline (2025–2026)

• Oct–Dec 2025: Stakeholder consultations, partnership confirmations
• Jan–Mar 2026: Delegation registration, sponsorship confirmation
• April–May 2026: Media campaigns, visa facilitation, logistics coordination
• June 2026: Event implementation
• July–Dec 2026: Post-event reporting and follow-up

Why is the CA-PGIR-DMF Important?

The Canada–Africa Premiers & Governors Investment Roundtable & Deals Matchmaking Forum (CA-PGIR-DMF) is more than just an event; it serves as a pivotal platform that transforms current Canada-Africa engagement. It unites subnational leaders and private investors, indicating a new economic phase where provinces and states spearhead prosperity, support industrial growth, innovation, and sustainable development through collaborative diplomacy. Led by Prof. Carl Oshodi-Isibor, the CASP Secretariat encourages visionary Premiers, Governors, Ministers, and investors to join this historic high-level investment forum, the Deal-Closing & MoU-Signing Marathon, designed to redefine Canada–Africa relations for future generations.

“The real strength of a partnership isn’t in the contracts we sign, but in the shared success we achieve together.” 

— Prof. Carl N. Oshodi-Isibor, Ph.D., DBA,
Executive Director, CASP Secretariat
Group CEO, Africa Industrialization Group Inc. (AIGI)