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CANADA’S DEMOCRACY SUMMIT

April 16–18, 2026 | Toronto

DXC connects, celebrates and equips people who are taking action to strengthen democracy. Co-produced by OCAD University, The Open Democracy Project and the Dais at TMU, Canada’s premier democracy summit offers three days of dynamic programming that includes inspiring keynote speakers, thought‑provoking expert panels, and hands‑on participatory workshops; created to both examine and tackle today’s most urgent civic issues.

NEWS

Cory Doctorow to Open DemocracyXChange 2026 on April 16

Acclaimed author, activist and journalist Cory Doctorow will open the 7th annual DemocracyXChange Summit on April 16. Doctorow will share his keynote titled Disenshittification Nation, exploring how Canada can turn the upheaval of U.S.A./Canada relations over the past year ​​into a strategic opportunity to rebuild its tech sector, strengthen digital sovereignty and position itself as a global technology leader.

DXC25 By The Numbers

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Integrity of Information

How and where people get their sources of information continues to evolve. We’ll examine the latest tools that people are turning to, the ongoing policy debates and the chaos that ensues in this quickly moving space.

2026 THEME

Side By Side

Building an economy that serves democracy

DXC26 invites changemakers to reimagine the role of the economy in strengthening democracy.  When people see the economy working for them, confidence in democracy grows. In this defining moment, we'll explore how we can work together to secure economic sovereignty, grow opportunity and deepen civic trust in Canada and beyond. 

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Democracy Futures Workshop

 

Unbound: Canada’s Sovereignty and Democracy Futures
 

How might Canada break free from outdated assumptions and chart bold paths for its cultural, economic, and digital independence? This immersive 5-hour Democracy Futures Workshop uses foresight tools and scenario planning to uncover vulnerabilities, imagine preferred futures, and co-create strategies for resilience. Through dynamic breakout sessions and plenaries, participants will craft a Civic Sovereignty Charter for 2035. 

Emerging Leaders

Workshop

 

The Emerging Leaders Workshop is designed to equip changemakers with the skills, confidence, and networks to drive meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. Through real-world examples, mentorship, and interactive activities, participants will explore the evolving landscape of leadership.

Now more than ever, we need civic engagement and concrete action to protect democracy, not only here in Canada as we face threats to our economy and sovereignty, but around the world.

Ana Serrano

OCAD University President and Vice-Chancellor

Partners

Gold Partner
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Silver
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Bronze
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Arts Partner
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Community Partners
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Balsillie Family Foundation

Presented by

DemocracyXChange is a collaboration of:
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Connecting, celebrating and equipping people who are taking action to strengthen democracy and civil society.

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© 2026 Open Democracy Project

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