Dear RIA Community,
As we approach the summer months, I’ve been reflecting on the remarkable evolution of responsible investment in Canada and the role our community has played in shaping that journey.
This year marks the 35th anniversary of the organization that would eventually become today’s Responsible Investment Association. Over the past three and a half decades, our industry has grown from a niche area of interest into an increasingly important part of Canada’s financial ecosystem. Along the way, the conversation has expanded, matured and adapted in response to changing market conditions, new evidence, evolving client expectations and a rapidly shifting global landscape.
That process continues today.
Responsible investment practitioners are navigating a world characterized by economic uncertainty, geopolitical tension, technological disruption and growing demands from clients, beneficiaries and stakeholders. The questions facing investors have become more complex. The solutions require broader perspectives. And the need for thoughtful dialogue has never been greater.
These realities are reflected throughout the program for the 2026 RIA Conference, taking place September 15-17 in Toronto. As we developed this year’s agenda, our goal was not simply to revisit familiar conversations. Instead, we sought to create a program that reflects the practical realities of being an RI practitioner in Canada today. The sessions explore how investors are balancing long-term sustainability objectives with the realities of today’s markets, policy environment and investment landscape. They examine where progress is being made, where challenges remain and how the industry continues to evolve in pursuit of better outcomes for investors and society.
The program also widens the aperture of conversations that are relevant to responsible investment. Alongside topics that remain foundational to the field, we are creating space for new perspectives, emerging opportunities and conversations that connect responsible investment to broader questions of economic resilience, competitiveness, innovation, impact and long-term value creation.
Importantly, we are also bringing together voices from across the investment ecosystem. Meaningful progress rarely happens within an echo chamber. Some of the most valuable insights emerge when investors engage with perspectives that challenge assumptions, introduce new ideas or approach familiar issues through a different lens. The conference is designed to foster exactly those kinds of conversations.
At its core, the RIA Conference is about connection. It is an opportunity to learn from peers, share experiences, explore new approaches and strengthen the relationships that help move our industry forward.
As part of our 35th anniversary celebrations, we are pleased to offer a special 15% registration discount until July 1 (code: RIACan15). We hope you’ll take advantage of this opportunity and join us in Toronto this September for what promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking event.
Thank you for your continued support of the RIA and for the important work you do every day. Whether you have been part of this community for many years or are newer to the responsible investment journey, your participation helps strengthen the collective impact of our industry.
I wish you a wonderful summer and look forward to seeing many of you at the conference.
Warm regards,
Patricia Fletcher,
Chief Executive Officer
Responsible Investment Association
