May 6-7, 2026
Cities bursting with life
The 2026 Evergreen Conference will explore how public space enables the kinds of communities we need. Neighbourhoods with dense, affordable housing and green space; community hubs that support climate resilience and local economies; spaces for children of all abilities to play and expression to thrive.
Walkable neighborhoods with green public spaces, affordable housing, adequate services, and bustling local businesses are possible. We’ll explore how to get there through five main topic areas:
We need all of us to create the communities we need across Canada.
Submit your session proposal by September 5 to share your ideas and skills with people across sectors who can help enable and enrich your work.
The Evergreen Conference is not your typical conference; it embodies the public spaces we aspire to create. That means it is:
Think cutting-edge research and skill-building workshops from top practitioners. Learn from leading experts and gain professional development credits from climate resilience, policy and governance, finance and development, community building, health, democracy and more.
Expect tours, walking sessions, and hands-on workshops where we learn by doing.
We need time to talk shop, learn from each other and build new relationships. This is where the magic happens – across sectors, regions, and perspectives.
Unplug, go for walk and absorb the information that you’re getting. No need for information overload here. Expect time for discussion, networking and reflection interspersed throughout the day.
“Evergreen is setting a new standard. Well done.”
“Feeling replenished is exactly the sentiment I’m holding with me after two days of thought-provoking and enriching exchanges at the Evergreen Conference! Thank you, Evergreen, for holding space for wholesome conversations about the power of us and how essential social infrastructure is for (re)building connections.”
“This conference exuded warmth. Placing rugs, furniture, blankets, and pillows throughout the site brought a wonderful level of coziness and intimacy that’s unusual in a professional setting. I truly felt Evergreen’s intentions for us to “make ourselves at home” and fill our cup. I gushed about it in a voice note to my friend while walking the trail towards the subway, and she remarked, “It sounds like a retreat.” Indeed, what a refreshing change to leave a conference not just inspired and motivated but *nourished* (in every sense of the word!).”
“I felt a real sense of comfort during the conference – there was a balance between taking the time to connect with people, but also so many spaces to go and be more reflective on my own as I needed it. I’ve never been to a conference that was so focused on us as full people.”
“Keep up the great work in leading, lifting and partnering to make Toronto and cities better. The Evergreen team is exceptional and their understanding, care and professionalism was felt throughout the conference. Many thanks, my cup runneth over.”
“Thanks so much for organizing an incredible, insightful and well-delivered 2024 Evergreen Conference! I am thrilled to have been able to join, connect with new and likeminded practitioners, and to see our goals and vision reflected in so many individuals and organizations across the country.”
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