Applications are now open for the OPBA–Canoe Scholarship, offering $20,000 in funding to support professional development and education for public procurement professionals across Canada.
Delivered through the Public Procurement Learning Lab (PPLL), OPBA’s national learning hub, this initiative is funded by Canoe Procurement Group of Canada and supports practical, career-focused learning. |
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Upcoming Coffee with Counsel & Ignite Sessions |
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Bill 194: Expectations for Cybersecurity, Privacy, and AI |
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Register by June 8, 12:00 PM
Bill 194 is reshaping expectations around cybersecurity, privacy, and AI in Ontario’s public sector—bringing new considerations for procurement professionals. Join Lise Patry (LXM Law LLP) for a practical discussion on what this means for your day-to-day procurement work. This session will highlight key impacts of the legislation and outline actionable steps to strengthen due diligence, contract terms, and vendor risk management.
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The OECM Indigenous Marketplace |
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Register by June 22, 12:00 PM
OECM’s Indigenous Marketplace reflects our commitment to social procurement and economic reconciliation, in alignment with TRC Call to Action 92. Through this initiative, 40+ qualified Indigenous suppliers have been vetted to help municipalities advance their Indigenous engagement journey in a practical and compliant way.
Join Luba Medvedeva and Derame Aodesho from OECM, as they cover: - Why and how the program was developed
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The Supplier Selection Tool and how to use it to find the right Indigenous supplier for your needs
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2026 Courses for Your Professional Growth |
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As the cornerstone of OPBA's educational offerings, PPLL provides a more comprehensive and meaningful learning experience through a blend of self-paced online modules and a virtual classroom session via Zoom in the final week. |
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PPS – RFPs: A Step by Step Guide for Public Procurement Professionals
Course Dates: May 25 + 26, 2026
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM ET
Registration Deadline is Monday, May 18, 2026
In this course, participants will uncover the secrets behind crafting successful Request for Proposals. The content is presented in an easily digestible format, providing an overview of RFP-related issues and responsibilities. Participants will have an in-depth look at all elements of the RFP process, including policies and procedures, RFP templates, methodology, communications with proponents, compliance, price proposals, contract assembly, and more. By the end of the training, participants will understand all facets of the RFP process, including how to provide relevant information during debriefings. Click here to register
Principles - Competitive Bidding (Virtual - PPLL) Course Date: June 25, 2026
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM ET
Registration Deadline is Monday, May 25, 2026
This course gives a detailed examination of the tendering & request for proposal processes. It includes concepts, issues and the resolution of issues relating to preparing and issuing the procurement documents as well as the ultimate receiving, opening and checking of bids. Participants will be given an overview of the various components comprising tenders and request for proposals documents and the differences of each. Click here to register
Principles - Procurement and the Law (Virtual - PPLL) Course Date: June 29, 2026
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM ET
Registration Deadline is Monday, May 25, 2026
In this course the mysteries of the law and the relationship of the procurement agent to it are unraveled in a concise and easy to understand format. Candidates are given an overview of the issues and responsibilities related to entering into a legal contract as well as determining what comprises a contract. Other topics discussed are the Law of Agency, Contract Law, Laws of Competitive Bidding, comments on various Acts, bonding and alternatives to bonding. Click here to register
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NIGP Pilot Course
Foundations of Sourcing and Contracting (3-day NIGP course)
Course Dates: May 27, 28 + 29, 2026
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM ET
Registration closes Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Designed to provide entry-level public procurement professionals with the tools they need to ensure the appropriate goods and services are procured, NIGP’s Foundations of Sourcing and Contracting Core Certificate empowers learners with applicable, implementable solutions to some of the procurement function’s most challenging topics. Click here to register
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CPPB and CPPO Exam Preparation 2-Day Courses |
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Complete Your Registrations Early |
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OPBA Annual General Meeting 2026 + AI in Procurement Feature |
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OPBA Members Only | Register by Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | 1 contact hour
Top 3 Reasons to Attend the Annual Meeting
1. Elect Your Leadership: Vote to elect the Board of Directors.
2. Shape the Future: Participate in important decisions on resolutions and policies. 3. Stay Informed: Get updates on key initiatives and OPBA activities.
Join Victoria Mirlocca, Chair of the Board of Directors, to:
• Review and accept the financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2025.
• Hear updates on OPBA’s work and direction for the coming year. Special 30-Minute Feature
AI in Procurement: Contracts, Vendors & Risk in a Changing Landscape Presented by: Info-Tech Research Group |
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Now Open | 2026 Conference & Tradeshow |
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This year’s conference will take place in London, Ontario, with both the conference and pre – conference sessions hosted at RBC Place London. Public procurement professionals from across the public sector will come together for learning, discussion, and connection under this year’s theme, Procuring for Tomorrow: Are You Ready for It? The program will focus on emerging trends, evolving practices, and practical insights to support today’s procurement environment. Both pre-conference workshops, including OPBA’s newest course, Contract Management, will provide in-depth learning opportunities ahead of the main conference.
Stay tuned for full program details!
Also on September 22, the Caveat Emptor Cup Golf Tournament, which will be held at Echo Valley Golf Club, London, offers a relaxed setting to connect with colleagues and start networking before the conference begins. Click here to register
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Reverse Vendor Tradeshow: Exhibitor Registration |
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Public Agencies Exhibit Free at the 2026 Reverse Vendor Tradeshow
Public agencies are invited to participate as exhibitors at the OPBA Reverse Vendor Tradeshow on October 21, 2026.
Exhibitor registration is complimentary for public agencies. Participating agencies will also be entered into a draw for a free 2026 OPBA Conference registration. Questions? Email Wendy Gan.
Register as a Public Agency Exhibitor |
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People Leaders Meetings | Free to OPBA Members |
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Send your burning questions or discussion topics to events@opba.ca at least one week before the meeting. |
Procurement Specialists Meetings | Free to OPBA Members |
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Send your burning questions or discussion topics to events@opba.ca at least one week before the meeting. |
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Judy Wilson Emerging Leader Award | Nominations Now Open |
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Nomination Deadline | Friday May 22, 2026
In 2024, the Ontario Public Buyers Association (OPBA) proudly partnered with Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (Blakes) to launch the Judy Wilson Emerging Leader Award. This prestigious award is returning for its third year, and nominations are now open. If you've ever wondered how to formally recognize a colleague's achievements, read on for more details and to submit your nomination! Click here to learn more |
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Become a Mentor or Mentee Today! |
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We’re pleased to share that OPBA’s Mentoring Program, launched last year has returned and is in full swing. All past participants are welcome to return, and we also encourage anyone who hasn’t yet participated to consider joining this year. Click the link below to read more about the program, if you have any questions please email members@opba.ca
Click here to learn more |
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Additional Professional Development |
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The NIGP Alberta Chapter is hosting its first webinar on Defensible Debriefings in Public Procurement and we would like to extend the invitation to other chapters members who may be interested in attending.
Title: Defensible Debriefings in Public Procurement Date: May 20th, 1:30-3:30 pm Mountain time Cost: $15
To register: https://nigpabchapter.ca/content.aspx?page_id=4091&club_id=622230&item_id=2922800
Description: Join Lynda Allair and Stéphanie Dion for this engaging webinar where the facilitators explain how to run effective and defensible debriefs in public procurement. They will discuss how to prepare, structure, and deliver debriefs that support transparency and reduce the risk of disputes. You will see how strong planning at the start of an RFP leads to smoother conversations at the end. The session uses real examples to show what works and what does not. This session is based on the NIGP best practice on Debriefs.
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Navigating Non‑Payment: Strategic Use of Legal Tools While Preserving Client Relationships – Hosted by McMillan LLP.
Hosted by the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies, in partnership with McMillan LLP.
Date: September 17 at 12:00 pm – 1:15 pm | Click here to register
Description: Join Jason J. Annibale and Natasha Rodrigues from McMillan LLP as they walk participants through the key mechanisms available under Ontario’s Construction Act including liens, prompt payment requirements, and adjudication. Attendees will learn what each tool is designed to accomplish, when it is appropriate to use, and how to leverage these rights without escalating conflict unnecessarily. The session will also explore the practical steps to take when payments are delayed or withheld: when to issue a letter or notice of default, how to determine whether adjudication or a lien is warranted, and how to approach disputes thoughtfully when projects still have years remaining or involve valued long term clients. The discussion will highlight when to involve legal counsel and which high risk options should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
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The Osgoode Certificate in Contract Management for Construction and Infrastructure Projects
May 25-29, 2026 | In-Person & Online (Live)
Gain valuable insights from legal and contract management experts about assessing and managing risk, and tips for minimizing risk and maximizing performance. You will gain substantive knowledge and the practical skills needed to execute an efficient, and cost-effective contract management process. This intensive, five-day certificate will give you the tips and strategies you need to address some of the most challenging and complex situations that can negatively impact your contract management process. Register today!
The Osgoode Certificate in Construction Law
Nov 4, 5, 6, 9 & 10, 2026 | In-Person & Online (Live)
Can you confidently manage risk on construction projects? Modern construction projects are complex and high-stakes, with significant legal risks for all involved. A strong understanding of the legal frameworks that govern these projects is essential to managing risk effectively. Engage with a faculty of 30+ senior legal and construction professionals in this intensive, five-day certificate program designed for both legal and industry professionals. With an emphasis on real-world examples and interactive sessions, you’ll explore key topics—from contract formation to dispute resolution—while gaining practical strategies to reduce liability. Regional distinctions for Eastern and Western Canada are included for select topics to enhance relevance across jurisdictions. Register today!
The Osgoode Certificate in Advanced Procurement Law and Practice
Dec 3, 4, 7 & 8, 2026 | Online (Live)
Navigate the legal complexities of public procurement with Osgoode's Certificate in Advanced Procurement Law and Practice. Stay current, compliant and competitive. Starting December 3, join a faculty of experienced legal and procurement professionals for four focused days of learning designed for those with 5+ years in the field. Take your skills to the next level with this in-depth, practice-oriented program. Register today!
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