Welcome to the Public Policy Forum

The Public Policy Forum is an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of government in Canada through enhanced dialogue among the public, private and voluntary sectors. At the Forum we believe that good government, robust public policy and strong democratic institutions depend on the contributions of all sectors of society.

We are neutral, non-partisan, non-governmental and independent. We are able to create a ‘safe space' that facilitates open and frank dialogue and discussion among leaders from all sectors.

We organize dozens of events each year on issues that are important to Canadians that address questions of vital importance to our democracy and economy.

Our publications consist of both original research and event reports. Through our publications and other activities we encourage further dialogue on public sector governance and policy issues.

We depend on our members, sponsors and event participants to sustain our active programming. Unlike some think tanks, we are not funded by an endowment or a government grant.  This compels us to focus on programmes and topics for investigation that are timely, important and relevant.

The Forum is governed by a Board of Directors whose members are leaders in their fields and represent diverse sectors and regions of Canada. The Forum's daily operations are directed from our Ottawa office.

Our roots

It was in 1987 in Calgary, Alberta that the Forum took its first steps. Believing that good government cannot be left to government alone, business leaders met with senior public servants to discuss how they could work together more effectively. From this initial discussion, strong consensus emerged to create an independent forum where leaders from the private and public sectors could meet to discuss issues of governance and public policy.

Since its creation 25 years ago, Canada's Public Policy Forum's membership has grown to include 180 organizations from business, federal, provincial and territorial governments, academic institutions, organized labour and the voluntary and not-for-profit sectors.