OES 2008

OES Grand Opening Reception

To follow-up on this highly successful event in 2007 that featured former U.S. President Bill Clinton as our keynote speaker, the OES will begin with a similar, high-profile reception. The OES Grand Opening Reception is the perfect opportunity to hear from some of the world’s leading thinkers and visionaries about the state of the global economic and social landscape and what it all means for Ontario. Additional information will be made available as details for this key OES component are confirmed.

2008 Discussion Areas

I. Reinventing Workforce Development
Perhaps the most important contributing factor in ensuring a sustainable, globally-competitive economy for Ontario lies in the capabilities of our people. Indeed, the 2007 OES survey of economic leaders revealed that “investment in people” was the most important issue for respondents when thinking about Ontario’’s economic prosperity.

In addition to well-documented issues such as skilled-trades shortages and an aging workforce, Ontario is clearly undergoing a significant period of workforce transition. As Ontario’s industrial base evolves and becomes increasingly knowledge-intensive, our strongest asset – our people – will require new skills and knowledge. Are Ontario’s colleges, universities and training institutes sufficiently seized with the challenges of the evolving labour market and the evolving economy? Is industry sufficiently engaged in the development of curriculum that will meet our future needs and position Ontario for continued foreign investment? What role do these institutions play in their regional economies – many of which are facing an increasingly difficult local economic climate?

II. Rethinking Trade Markets
For several years, Ontario has benefited from strong, open trade ties with the United States and a low dollar that has supported strong export revenues for Ontario firms. Notwithstanding any significant change in U.S. policy, this close trading relationship with our American friends will continue to be a very important component of Ontario’s export market portfolio. However, a much stronger Canadian dollar, intense competition from developing markets and a weakened U.S. economy are impacting Ontario’s ability to grow export revenues and enhance our prosperity and economic growth.

Our panel will examine the importance of market diversification in bolstering Ontario’s economic resiliency. How can a more globally-oriented export culture be fostered in Ontario while continuing to enhance our strong trade and investment ties with the United States? What about opportunities for Ontario within Canada?

III. Renewing Competitive Advantage
In an era of a much higher Canadian dollar, soaring energy and fuel costs and unprecedented competition worldwide, this dynamic session will involve debate about what Ontario’s value proposition should be going forward.

What should our economy look like in 20 years? In what strategic areas should emphasis be placed and what is the best way to get there? How can industry and other stakeholders leverage Ontario’s world class, knowledge-intensive, creative assets to renew our global competitive advantage? The panel will also discuss opportunities associated with the fast-growing, sustainable economy. Should economic leaders in Ontario become more engaged in sustainable business practices in order to increase competitive advantage? How can Ontario position itself as a world leader in the so-called “green economy”? Finally, as we look to future growth, we will hear about Ontario’s “next generation industries” such as design services and gaming technology that are moving from niche to mainstream at an increasing pace.

Spotlight Issue: Soaring Oil and Energy Costs
Higher prices for oil and other key commodities are now a long-term reality and the effects can be felt throughout the economy. These effects are forcing businesses to adapt their practices – and, at the same time, are opening the door to new thinking and new technologies.

Our panel of experts will examine the long-term changes the cost of crude will bring to industry, to transportation, and to consumer behaviour, as well as how business, government, and labour can respond.