Alongside over 1 300 exhibitors, Canadian mining industry association Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada’s (PDAC’s) upcoming PDAC 2026 convention has expanded networking opportunities and intends to broaden international participation, making the upcoming convention the largest trade show in the event’s history, says PDAC president Karen Rees.

Taking place from March 1 to 4, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, in Canada, PDAC 2026 brings the global mineral exploration and mining community together at a time when investment decisions, supply chains and policy certainty are front of mind, she says.

PDAC 2026 will focus on practical, business-focused conversations around competitiveness, responsible development and long-term investment confidence, all of which are significant in shaping where capital flows and how projects move forward.

“PDAC 2026 is where conversations, connections and capital converge at a scale you won’t find anywhere else,” says Rees, adding that PDAC 2026 presents an opportunity to meet directly with company leaders, government officials, policymakers and investors, to strike new deals and move projects forward.

She notes that, of equal importance, the convention serves as a place to advance “respectful and mutually beneficial” partnerships with Indigenous communities and other local partners.

“From students and early-career professionals to senior executives, everyone who attends PDAC 2026 can gain insight, build relationships and help shape the direction of our industry,” asserts Rees.

As opposed to treating issues in isolation, she says PDAC 2026 integrates current industry priorities throughout the convention’s programme.

This includes topics such as sustainability; environmental, social and governance practices; as well as responsible exploration reflected across technical, policy and Indigenous programming.

Further, PDAC 2026’s programme is aligned with the PDAC’s Driving Responsible Exploration framework, alongside strong coverage of exploration technology, data and innovation.

Presenters will deliver up-to-date content through panels, technical sessions, short courses and keynote presentations.

In addition to covering Indigenous partnerships and sustainability, programming will span capital markets and financing, as well as advances in geoscience and exploration techniques.

The convention’s flagship keynote themes will cover commodities, the mining industries’ outlook, technology and innovation, as well as the Discovery of the Year Award recipient.

Building Impact
The PDAC 2026 convention builds on PDAC’s year-round work, with the convention offering support to young professionals, as well as integrating industry advocacy, both of which are key priorities for the association, says Rees.

She explains that the mining industry depends on a skilled workforce across geoscience, engineering, technology, sustainability and finance. Acknowledging this significance, PDAC plays a practical role in helping students and early-career professionals connect with employers, mentors and opportunities, adds Rees.

At PDAC 2026, the Student and Early Career Programme offers direct access to industry leaders through dedicated networking and career-focused programming, including the Student-Industry Mixer, the 20-Minute Mentoring programme and guided trade show tours.

PDAC 2026 also helps reduce barriers to participation through travel and accommodation funding that supports student attendance.

“Beyond the convention, PDAC delivers hands-on initiatives such as the Student-Industry Mineral Exploration Workshop, which gives participants real-world exposure to exploration work and helps bridge the gap between academic study and industry practice,” adds Rees.

Meanwhile, as part of its advocacy efforts, the PDAC works closely with governments and policymakers to advance practical, evidence-based positions that support a competitive, responsible and sustainable minerals sector, with a strong emphasis on long-term investment confidence, she says.

Looking ahead, Rees explains that the PDAC’s advocacy priorities include securing long-term policy certainty for mineral exploration and critical minerals, improving access to capital and reducing regulatory duplication and delays.

The association also continues to advocate for stronger public geoscience activities and enabling infrastructure, along with policy frameworks that support meaningful Indigenous participation and partnerships.