Event Recap: The Courage to Transform: Business Innovation for a Climate-Resilient Economy

On June 11, 2026, Partners in Project Green brought together sustainability professionals, business leaders and innovators at the University of Toronto Mississauga for our flagship Annual Forum, The Courage to Transform: Business Innovation for a Climate-Resilient Economy.

Over 150 attendees from across the Greater Toronto Area gathered to explore how organizations can navigate climate challenges, embrace innovation, and build resilience in a rapidly changing world.

Throughout the day, participants engaged in insightful discussions, made valuable connections, and explored practical solutions for advancing sustainability across sectors.

Exploring Climate Resilience Through Innovation and Finance

The day began with opening remarks from Stefania Sottile, Associate Director, Environment at the Greater Toronto Airports Authority and Co-Chair of PPG’s Executive Management Committee, who highlighted that “courage” is at the heart of every transformative sustainability initiative.

Following that, attendees heard from experts from RBC, MSCI, and University Health Network for a panel discussion on how innovation and finance are essential to climate preparedness. They shared unique perspectives – from research, to data, to finance – how organizations can better position themselves and strengthen resilience in the face of growing environmental and economic risks.

AI & Sustainability

Keynote speaker Kulbir Colin Singh Dhillon challenged attendees to think critically about the opportunities and implications of artificial intelligence. His presentation explored how organizations can leverage emerging technologies while remaining aligned with their sustainability goals and values.

Courageous Leadership in Climate Action

The Forum concluded with a lively panel discussion on the people behind climate action. Leaders from Diversity in Sustainability, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), and CHEP Canada shared personal stories and experiences on getting organizational buy-in, overcoming setbacks, and maintaining momentum while driving change in sustainability.

Celebrating Our Partnership with UTM’s MSc in Sustainability Management Program

A special highlight of this year’s Forum was our partnership with the University of Toronto Mississauga’s Master of Science in Sustainability Management (MScSM) program. We were proud to welcome MScSM students into the room, engage with industry professionals, and gain firsthand exposure to the conversations shaping the future of sustainable business and climate resilience.

The MScSM program focuses on training up future sustainability leaders. Partnerships like this help bridge academia and industry, creating opportunities for emerging leaders to connect with practitioners and contribute to building a more sustainable future.

If you are interested in connecting with the program to hire students, support a capstone/research project, host a guest lecture, provide mentorship or share your expertise, please contact Placement & Employer Relations Manager, Linnet Kocheril (linnet.kocheril@utoronto.ca).