Chiefs of Ontario

Powering Up Data Sovereignty Conference

This website will be updated regularly. Please check back frequently for updates.

Save the Date

The Chiefs of Ontario Research and Data Management Sector will host the 2026 Powering Up Data Sovereignty Conference from May 12-14, 2026.

The three day conference will bring together First Nations Leadership, technicians, data professionals, and administrators, to reflect on the strides made since the first Powering Up Data Sovereignty conference in 2023, and to offer insight on where the movement for First Nations data sovereignty in Ontario goes next.

Date and Time:

  • May 12-13, 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

  • May 14, 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: Chelsea Hotel, 33 Gerrard St W, Toronto, ON M5G 1Z4

Who should attend: First Nations Leadership, Technicians, Data Professionals, First Nation Community Workers

Registration: http://coo.smudging.ca/Meeting/Register/7e37d68e-09fe-4fc0-88d6-f75a92b05022

  • Complimentary registration is available for First Nation individuals and delegates, First Nation students and youth, and invited guests.

  • Early bird prize: Register by March 27, 2026, to be entered into the conference draw.

Accommodations: A limited number of rooms at the Chelsea Hotel have been secured for participants at a special rate of $259.00 plus applicable taxes. To access the special rate, click the link to the Chelsea Hotel below:

Chelsea Hotel, Toronto - Reservations - Room Availability

  • Alternatively, to book your room, contact the hotel directly at 1-800-243-5732 or 1-416-595-1975.

  • Be sure to request the “Powering Up Data Sovereignty Conference” room block or provide the Reservation ID: COO051126 to receive the special rate.

  • Room block deadline: April 17, 2026.

Important notice: Please continue to check back regularly as this site will be updated with important documentation leading up to the conference.

Meeting Materials

Support Contact Information

  • For inquiries or more information, please contact Alice Longboat, Conference Coordinator, at Poweringup@coo.org.