Sixteen Toronto leaders were honoured at the 6th Annual Leaders Circle Recognition Celebration at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on March 26, 2025. Their efforts helped secure seven international meetings across industries such as life sciences, business, and transportation — events expected to bring nearly 8,000 delegates to Toronto and generate an estimated $25 million in economic impact for Ontario.
Through prospecting and research, the Leaders Circle, supported by Destination Toronto and the MTCC, collaborates with industry experts to win international meeting bids. International conventions are powerful economic drivers for Toronto, Ontario, and Canada, leaving lasting legacies while showcasing Canada’s strong economic sectors and its position as a global hub for innovation and opportunity.
“The Metro Toronto Convention Centre is a world-class business and major event venue, hosting events and conventions that play a vital role in Ontario’s tourism industry and economy,” said Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming Stan Cho. “We’re proud to support the collaborative efforts of the Leaders Circle and the MTCC in attracting events from across the globe and elevating the province’s reputation as a destination of choice for large-scale gatherings of every kind.”
Over the past decade, the Leaders Circle program has helped secure 66 international conventions for Toronto, generating more than $435 million in economic impact. This year’s celebration underscored the economic and social value of international meetings and honoured the experts whose efforts have contributed to Toronto’s success.
“Toronto’s reputation as Canada’s top destination for international meetings reflects our city’s status as a global hub for innovation and opportunity,” said Kathy Haley, president & CEO of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. “Collaboration is key to ensuring these events continue to deliver meaningful contributions to Canada’s future. As a proud partner of the Leaders Circle, the MTCC remains committed to attracting more international events that create lasting benefits for our city, region, and country.”
See full list of winners here.
