ONWARD 2026: Preparing for What Comes Next

More than 100 leaders from across government, industry and academia came together at Black Diamond Group’s ONWARD: A Visionary Summit 2026 to discuss the trends, opportunities, and challenges shaping the future.

While perspectives varied, one message was clear: organizations that have a clear view of the future, a defined long-range strategy, yet remain adaptable, informed, and disciplined will be best positioned to succeed in a world changing at ever-increasing speed.

At Black Diamond, that mindset is at the heart of ONWARD. More than an annual leadership summit, ONWARD provides an opportunity to explore the trends shaping our operating environments and the industries we serve. By bringing together diverse perspectives, it challenges assumptions, broadens thinking, and helps us better understand the opportunities and risks that lie ahead.

Looking Beyond the Horizon

This year's discussions focused on the economic, technological, and geopolitical forces influencing the industries and ecosystems we operate in. Speakers explored the global macroeconomic landscape, energy and infrastructure development, defence investments, and the evolving Canada-U.S. trade relationship. Several sessions and keynote addresses also examined the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and the impacts that will have on business and leadership, along with the complexities of moving people at scale.

Together, these discussions reinforced an important reality: while change creates uncertainty, it also creates opportunity.

Across the markets we serve, demand continues to grow for workforce accommodations, flexible space solutions, and our end-to-end workforce travel product. Understanding where those opportunities are emerging helps us position Black Diamond for long-term success.

Innovation and Adaptability

Artificial intelligence was a recurring theme throughout ONWARD 2026. The conversation is no longer about whether AI will influence business – it already is. The focus now is on how organizations can apply new technologies responsibly and effectively to improve decision-making, productivity, and customer outcomes.

At Black Diamond, innovation is not about technology for technology's sake. It is about creating practical solutions that strengthen our business, support our customers, and deliver long-term value.

Just as important is the culture that enables innovation. Strong organizations emphasize values, foster curiosity, encourage collaboration, and remain open to new ideas. These principles are reflected in Our Way and our commitment to Creating a Better Way.

Planning for Future Growth

“ONWARD is not about precisely predicting the future – it is about preparing for it,” said Trevor Haynes, Chairman & CEO. “The insights, conversations, and perspectives shared at ONWARD 2026 help strengthen our ability to navigate change, identify opportunities and make informed decisions for the continued success and growth of our Company.”

At Black Diamond, that starts with how we plan, collaborate, lead, execute and hold ourselves accountable. We believe sustainable success is built on a clear vision, strong values, measurable objectives, and disciplined data-driven execution. By combining bold thinking with purposeful action, we continue to differentiate ourselves and advance our commitment to excellence in everything we do.

ONWARD, Forward!