The Canadian Queer Chamber of Commerce (CQCC) and Canadian Aboriginal and Supplier Minority Council (CAMSC), founders of Supplier Diversity Alliance Canada (SDAC), are teaming up with WEConnect International this March to bring you DEFY Conference 2026, Canada’s supplier inclusion event. Happening March 11 – 12, 2026, at Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Toronto, ON, Canada!
DEFY 2026 is SDAC’s second biennial conference, where Canada’s inclusive supply chain ecosystem will shape the future. DEFY will bring together 450+ diverse entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, government officials, and global partners to tackle the big questions: How do we innovate, grow sustainably, and build resilient supply chains in a changing world?
With powerful keynotes, hands-on workshops, B2B matchmaking, and unmatched networking, this is the conference that helps you defy the odds and redefine what’s possible for your business. These two days are where ideas spark, partnerships thrive, and growth happens.
Early Bird pricing is ON! Save over 15% when you register by January 16, 2026.
What to expect at DEFY 2026?
- Inspirational Keynotes: Hear from industry leaders and gain insights that will help shape your growth in meaningful ways;
- Diverse Networking Opportunities: Forge connections with like-minded entrepreneurs and corporate leaders, and open the door to valuable new partnerships;
- Interactive Workshops: Sharpen your skills and stay ahead of the curve with engaging breakout sessions. Expand on topics such as AI, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and Sustainability to take your knowledge to the next level;
- Exclusive Matchmaking Sessions: Tailored specifically for certified suppliers and corporate partners, these sessions open the door to strategic collaborations across the SDAC network.
Why DEFY?
- Entrepreneurs can connect with procurement professionals through matchmaking sessions, gain actionable insights from industry leaders, and build relationships that drive business forward.
- Corporations can discover new partnerships, strengthen their commitment to inclusive supply chains, and learn best practices that make a real impact.
- Meet members of other supplier councils. DEFY replaces our individual conferences in 2026, so members are highly encourage to attend and participate in this dynamic marketplace of ideas and opportunities.
- By attending DEFY 2026, you will network with attendees from CAMSC (Indigenous, racialized groups and minority-owned and refugee–owned businesses), CQCC (2SLGBTQI+-owned companies), and WEConnect International (women-owned businesses);
- Discounted ticket rates are available for CQCC-Certified Suppliers and FAM members. To take advantage:
- If you are a Supplier, contact vanessa.ntinu@queerchamber.ca.
- If you are part of the FAM, contact shilik.hamad@queerchamber.ca.
WHO IS DEFY FOR?
- Entrepreneurs and suppliers seeking business growth and new opportunities.
- Corporate leaders and government partners committed to inclusive economic development.
- Allied businesses and organizations that support and engage with CAMSC, CQCC and WEConnect International.
- Professionals looking for networking opportunities, actionable insights, and industry-leading expertise in a collaborative and welcoming space.
DEFY aims to:
- Strengthen our community by fostering collaboration and support among businesses and partners.
- Showcase the impact of supplier inclusion initiatives for Canadian businesses.
- Create an open, engaging, and thoughtful learning environment where attendees can share knowledge and learn from industry leaders.
- Facilitate the exchange of innovative ideas and diverse perspectives, helping businesses and organizations evolve in meaningful ways.
Looking for more ways to put your company in the spotlight? For DEFY sponsorship opportunities, please contact Sabrina Uwase at sabrina.uwase@queerchamber.ca.
STILL DECIDING? Discover highlights FRom DEFY 2024
DEFY 2024 (June 12-14, 2024) was SDAC’s first time coming together to create an event like this, backed by the core belief that connecting all together gives us more power.
We came together to empower each other and #ForgeTheFuture together.
Read all about SDAC’s first-ever DEFY conference and see why this event could be a game-changer for you!
