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About the Forum

When you imagine Canada’s future, what do you see?

From November 1-3, 2023, McMaster and the Future of Canada Project will host Imagining 2080: A Forum on Canada’s Futures where 150 possibility-minded delegates will gather to collectively explore potential futures for Canada in 2080.

Over the course of three days in Hamilton, Ontario, delegates will immerse themselves in a unique and participatory experience where they will learn from new visionary voices, contribute to new narratives about the future in 2080 and identify critical next steps in building a brighter future.

Rooted in strategic foresight, this Forum is an opportunity to imagine deeply aspirational futures of Canada while also identifying the key actions and changes needed to get there.

Want to be a part of the Forum?

1) Apply to be a delegate. The Forum will invite 150 possibility-minded delegates to come together in Hamilton this November to experiment with new ideas and approaches as we consider the possibilities for Canada in 2080. The delegate application process is now open. Please see below for more details.  

2) Attend the opening keynote on November 1, 2023. In the coming weeks we will be announcing an exciting keynote speaker. The keynote event will be open to members of the McMaster community and the public. Please stay tuned for more information.

3) Virtually attend key presentations. Some key presentations from the Forum will be livestreamed and accessible to the public. We will announce details regarding how to virtually attend presentations in our newsletter leading up to the Forum.

In order to learn details about the Forum as they are announced, please sign up for our newsletter.

 

Delegate application process

We are looking for 150 delegates to explore, discuss and imagine deeply aspirational futures for Canada at Imagining 2080. The delegate application process is now open!  

Who should apply 

Delegates are possibility-minded individuals who are currently involved in work advancing a better future for Canada. This may include (and is not limited to) research projects, public policy initiatives, or community programs. We are looking for delegates who are open to experimenting with new ideas, approaches, and experiences, and are comfortable learning from others, and embracing a diversity of perspectives.  

Imagining 2080 is committed to the principles of reconciliation, equity, diversity and inclusion. As hosts of this important conversation about Canada’s future, we are seeking delegates who represent a diversity of race, gender, age, ethnic and cultural backgrounds, political views, and regional perspectives.  

By encouraging diverse participation, we hope to surface new ideas and to stretch our collective thinking to imagine a future that we want to build—a Canada that is equitable, sustainable, resilient, and prosperous.   

How to apply 

We ask that prospective delegates fill out the application form linked below to help us select a cohort who will benefit from participation and contribute unique and diverse insights to the discussion. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, however, to ensure consideration please submit your application form by June 23, 2023. 

Access the delegate application form here

There is no cost to submit a delegate application. If your application is successful and you are offered a delegate position, there is a $250 registration fee to attend the Forum. Delegates are expected to cover their travel and accommodation expenses.  

If the registration fee or travel expenses are a barrier to your attendance, there is financial assistance available. 

All applicants will receive an email letting them know the status of their application. 

Please note that we do not provide feedback on individual applications. After being accepted as a Forum Delegate, the organizers will publish the delegate list on the Forum website.