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What is the Policy Insights Forum?

The Policy Insights Forum (PIF) is a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization with a commitment to facilitating meaningful Canadian public policy discussions regarding national defence, international relations, emergent disruptive technologies, climate change, and the economy.

Inside the Forum

The Policy Insights Forum (PIF) helps improve public policy and decision-making through independent research, analysis, and engagement. The PIF is committed to facilitating meaningful public discourse on strategic over-the-horizon issues of importance to Canada and the world.

Critical Challenges: The PIF helps find policy solutions to challenging problems of critical importance to the public.

Commitment to Education: The PIF operates an independent Fellowship Program dedicated to Public Policy literacy and engagement at the university graduate level in Canada. Our commitment to education means that we are helping to shape and inspire the next generation of Policy Leaders at the forefront of innovation and academic excellence.

Policy Research & Analysis

We provide independent and in-depth policy research and analysis. Our research provides decision makers with strategic fact-based support in a variety of areas to assist government bodies, private sector organizations and other stakeholder groups improve policy decision-making.

Contact Our Team

Advancing Future Policy

We work with scholars and leaders who wish to share their in-depth research, nonpartisan policy analysis, and original perspectives on strategic policy matters. In addition to our Forum, we issue publications, organize roundtable discussions and other sponsored events in Canada and abroad.

We also partner with associations, policy think‐tanks, the media and government organizations in Canada, the U.S. and around the world.
Show me upcoming events

Leadership

Through collaboration with experts, government, and industry leaders, the PIF fosters innovative solutions to complex global challenges.

By proactively engaging with these stakeholders and driving collaborative efforts, the PIF is committed to shaping forward-thinking policies that strengthen Canada’s national security, economic prosperity and global leadership.

THE

Executive Director

Fatima Atik

Executive Director

"As the Executive Director of Policy Insights Forum, I believe we are only as strong as the company we keep. After a few years with this organization, I am confident that we are surrounded by the best people dedicated to facilitating meaningful public discourse on strategic horizon issues of importance to Canada and the world."

Welcome Video Message

PIF Impact


The Policy Insights Forum (PIF) is a significant force in Canada’s public and private policy discourse, making impactful strides in a variety of ways.

The PIF’s programming offers diverse thought-provoking conferences, insightful discussions, and interactive events that bring together thought leaders from different sectors. This collaborative platform fosters the exchange of ideas, perspectives, and knowledge, helping to inform and influence policy direction. In doing so, the PIF programming has transformed the national policy dialogue into a dynamic, inclusive, and evidence-based discourse that enhances understanding and decision-making in various critical issues.
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One of the most significant impacts of the PIF is its youth and leadership development programs. Through these initiatives, PIF is shaping the next generation of Canadian leaders, providing them with essential knowledge, skills, and opportunities to engage in policy-making. These programs stimulate intellectual growth and cultivate a deep sense of civic responsibility among the youth. By investing in the potential of young minds, the PIF is essentially ensuring the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of Canada’s policy development.

Furthermore, PIF’s industry engagement initiatives serve as a bridge between private sector insights and public policy development. The PIF collaborates with a wide range of industry stakeholders, facilitating meaningful dialogue, partnerships, and information exchange. This approach has been instrumental in aligning policy direction with industry trends and market realities, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and relevance of policy initiatives.

Our Story

2021

The Policy Insights Forum (PIF), established on November 1, 2021, is a federally registered, not-for-profit corporation of the Samuel Group of Companies, operating independently with its own Board Advisory Committee.

The Board directs activities and selects candidates for Research Associateships, Fellowships, and Internships.

As a Think Tank, the PIF’s mission is to advance independent public policy research, providing strategic, fact-based support to decision-makers in government, the private sector, and other stakeholder groups to enhance policy leadership.

The PIF hosts its First Online Event:
“Resetting the Canada-US Relationship under President Biden.”
The Strategic Thinkers Series is established under the leadership of Dr. J. Paul de B. Taillon to discuss future strategic policy implications for Canada, its Allies, and Partners with forward-thinking authors and leaders.

The PIF hosts the Digitalization of Defence and Security Summit, bringing together and Western political, military, and industry leaders to discuss the impact of digital and cyber technologies on the Alliance, the Five Eyes Community, and national defence and security.
The PIF organizes its First NATO Private Sector Engagement (NPSE) Visit Program to Brussels in February 2022. ‍Fatima Atik becomes the Executive Director of the PIF.

The PIF becomes a member of Space Canada and hosts "Advancing the New Space Frontier: Defence and Commercial Opportunities," assembling Space Industry leaders to discuss the role of commercial players and necessary policy developments.

2022

2023

The PIF organizes its 2nd Year of the NPSE Program in February 2023.
The PIF signs an MOU with the Royal Alberta United Services Institute (RAUSI).

The PIF hosts a Canadian Industry Engagement with NATO SACT to facilitate discussions between defence sector companies on topics such as, Digital Transformation, Maritime Security, Submarines, Satellites, Cloud Technologies, Secure Communications, and Cybersecurity.

The PIF and Space Canada co-host" Canada's Space Innovators' Contributions to National Defense," a Roundtable that gathered senior Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) leadership and Space Industry Executives to discuss the contributions of space innovation to National Defence.

The PIF holds its First NATO Industry Conference in Ottawa.

The PIF becomes a bilingual entity and is incorporated in French as the “Forum d’intelligence politique” (FIP)

Transatlantic Emerging Leaders-Leaders Transatlantiques Émergents (TEL-LTE) is created as a youth division of the PIF.
The PIF hosts its 3rd Annual NPSE Program in February 2024.

The PIF establishes the National Security Studies Program (NSSP). Under the leadership of Col. (Ret’d) Geoffrey St. John, the NSSP will attempt to redefine Canada’s national security and interests in the digital era.

Dr. Philippe Lagassé is appointed as the PIF’s Director of Policy Publications and Defence Research

The PIF hosts the 2024 National Security Conference: "Bridging the Gap: Balancing Canadian National Security with Economic Prosperity", assembling leaders from government, industry and academia to examine evolving national security threats, modernization, innovation and strategy development.

2024

PIF PARTNERS

Our Government Partners

The Policy Insights Forum is proud to collaborate with the Government of Canada, encompassing multiple Departments, Agencies, and Crown Corporations in our programming. Our shared objective is to actively engage diverse stakeholders, including the private sector, academic institutions, and foreign governments, in constructive dialogues surrounding crucial policy matters and issues. This collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering a whole-of-society approach to policymaking, ensuring that insights and perspectives from all sectors are considered in the policy development process.

Become a Government partner
PIF PARTNERS

Our International Partners

Collaborates with international entities, including NATO and the EU, as well as allied governments like the US and Belgium, to engage Canada’s private sector, academia, and governmental bodies on policy-related discussions and challenges.

Become an International partner
PIF PARTNERS

Our Media Partners

The Policy Insights Forum appreciates our strategic partnerships, notably with the Canadian Defence Review (CDR). Together, we engage in policy events and contribute to the CDR magazine, sharing our expertise with a broad audience. We’ve also partnered with tech leader Samuel Technologies to explore formats like online events, video casts, and podcasts, ensuring a diverse and seamless media experience. With our partners, we aim to drive impactful policy discussions.

Become a media partner

Sponsorship and Engagement

Make a difference today by donating to the PIF

The Policy Insights Forum (PIF) is fundamentally driven by our transformative private-sector engagement programmes and our growing initiatives which nurture the future leaders through internships and fellowships. These efforts form the bedrock of our mission to significantly shape Canadian policy and decision-making processes.

However, the path to this impact is deeply reliant not just on our team’s dedication, but also on the substantial inputs from private sector businesses and organizations, combined with the support of government-funded projects.

This synergy of resources empowers us to cultivate the coming generation of policy leaders, equipping them with the requisite knowledge and capabilities to instigate substantial change. The PIF heartily encourages all forms of donations and support. By pooling our resources, we can build a sturdy future for Canada that is marked by insightful policy-making and thoughtful decisions.

Investing in Our Canadian Democracy

Supporting the Policy Insights Forum is not just a donation; it’s an investment in knowledge, dialogue, and democratic resilience. Each contribution strengthens our capacity to influence policy, empower communities, and foster an informed citizenry that will help shape a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future.

Donate Today

Testimonials

Hear more about what others have to say about the PIF

Goran Samuel Pesic

Chairman and CEO of the Samuel Group

“ PIF’s role in shaping strategic policies, guiding Canada, influencing global conversations, and nurturing our future leaders has never been more crucial. Let’s not shy away but embrace the complexity of our times to create a prosperous, inclusive future for all.             

Fatima Atik

Executive Director

“PIF is more than an acronym—it’s our guide to Possibility, Innovation & the Future. Amid global challenges, its impact on Canada’s policies and leaders is key. Let’s tackle today’s     challenges for an inclusive tomorrow.                                                                                                                                                                                     

Dr. Paul Taillon

Vice Chairman

“The Policy Insights Forum plays a pivotal role in bolstering Canada's democratic foundation and vigorously promoting impactful policy measures. Furthermore, it offers indispensable insights and support to governmental bodies, academic institutions, and businesses in the private sector.

From Insights to Expertise

The PIF's core areas of expertise and organizational focus are the following:

Politics & Government

International Relations

Defence & NATO

Aerospace & Space

National Security

Public Safety & Policing

Cybersecurity

Technology & Innovation

Economy & Trade

Diversity & Inclusion

Indigenous Canada

Environment

MEET OUR

Executive Team

Our Executive Team at Policy Insights Forum is in charge of the daily operations at our head office located in Ottawa, Canada.

Jonas LeBlanc-Wilmink
Director of Group Operations and Government Relations
Aliénor Peyrefitte
Executive Office Manager
MEET OUR

Research Associates and Policy Fellows

Our Research Associates and Policy Fellows are distinguished Canadian Leaders in academia, industry and government who have been brought together to provide research, policy recommendations, and analysis on a full range of public policy issues, including defence, national security, technology, and the economy.

Rear-Admiral (Retired) Ian Mack

Jeffrey Reynolds

Senior Researcher

Dr. John G. Richmond

Senior Researcher

Christopher Ankersen

Senior Researcher

Marc Pion

Senior Researcher

Katherine Todd

Research Associate

Joshua Baker

Research Associate

Meagan Boucher-Martin

Indigenous Policy Intern 2024

Louis E. Romet

Policy Fellow 2023

What is the Policy Insights Forum?

The Policy Insights Forum is a non-partisan, non-profit organization with a commitment to facilitating meaningful Canadian public policy discussions regarding national defence, international relations, emergent disruptive technologies, climate change, and the economy.

Inside the Forum

The Policy Insights Forum (PIF) helps improve public policy and decision-making through independent research, analysis, and engagement. The PIF is committed to facilitating meaningful public discourse on strategic over-the-horizon issues of importance to Canada and the world.

Critical Challenges: The PIF helps find policy solutions to challenging problems of critical importance to the public.

Commitment to Education: The PIF operates an independent Fellowship Program dedicated to Public Policy literacy and engagement at the university graduate level in Canada. Our commitment to education means that we are helping to shape and inspire the next generation of Policy Leaders at the forefront of innovation and academic excellence.

Policy Research & Analysis

We provide independent and in-depth policy research and analysis. Our research provides decision makers with strategic fact-based support in a variety of areas to assist government bodies, private sector organizations and other stakeholder groups improve policy decision-making.

Contact Our Research Team

Advancing Future Policy

We work with scholars and leaders who wish to share their in-depth research, nonpartisan policy analysis, and original perspectives on strategic policy matters. In addition to our Forum, we issue publications, organize roundtable discussions and other sponsored events in Canada and abroad.

We also partner with associations, policy think‐tanks, the media and government organizations in Canada, the U.S. and around the world.
Show me upcoming events

Inside the Forum

The Policy Insights Forum (PIF) helps improve public policy and decision-making through independent research, analysis, and engagement. The PIF is committed to facilitating meaningful public discourse on strategic over-the-horizon issues of importance to Canada and the world.

Critical Challenges: The PIF helps find policy solutions to challenging problems of critical importance to the public.

Commitment to Education: The PIF operates an independent Fellowship Program dedicated to Public Policy literacy and engagement at the university graduate level in Canada. Our commitment to education means that we are helping to shape and inspire the next generation of Policy Leaders at the forefront of innovation and academic excellence.

Advancing Future Policy

We work with scholars and leaders who wish to share their in-depth research, nonpartisan policy analysis, and original perspectives on strategic policy matters. In addition to our Forum, we issue publications, organize roundtable discussions and other sponsored events in Canada and abroad.

We also partner with associations, policy think‐tanks, the media and government organizations in Canada, the U.S. and around the world.
Show me upcoming events

Advancing Future Policy

We work with scholars and leaders who wish to share their in-depth research, nonpartisan policy analysis, and original perspectives on strategic policy matters. In addition to our Forum, we issue publications, organize roundtable discussions and other sponsored events in Canada and abroad.

From Insights to Expertise

The PIF's core areas of expertise and organizational focus are the following:

Politics & Government

International Relations

Defence & NATO

Aerospace & Space

National Security

Public Safety & Policing

Cybersecurity

Technology & Innovation

Economy & Trade

Diversity & Inclusion

Indigenous Canada

Environment

Research Associates and Policy Fellows

Our Research Associates and Policy Fellows are distinguished Canadian Leaders in academia, industry and government who have been brought together to provide research, policy recommendations, and analysis on a full range of public policy issues, including defence, national security, technology, and the economy.

Rear-Admiral (Retired) Ian Mack

Jeffrey Reynolds

Senior Researcher

Dr. John G. Richmond

Senior Researcher

Christopher Ankersen

Senior Researcher

Marc Pion

Senior Researcher

Katherine Todd

Research Associate

Joshua Baker

Research Associate

Meagan Boucher-Martin

Indigenous Policy Intern 2024

Louis E. Romet

Policy Fellow 2023
PARTNERSHIPS

Become a Partner

The Policy Insights Forum (PIF) partners with policy think-tanks and government organizations in Canada, the U.S. and abroad.

Influence and Shape Policy Decisions

As a partner, your organization would gain a direct line to policymakers and thought leaders. By actively participating in the PIF, you have the opportunity to voice your perspectives, share research findings, and influence policy proposals. Engaging at this level ensures that your organization’s concerns and priorities are addressed and integrated into policy discussions and decisions.

Access to Diverse Knowledge and Expertise

PIF typically brings together a broad range of stakeholders, including experts, researchers, government officials, and industry leaders from various fields. This provides partner organizations with a unique opportunity to gain insights from diverse viewpoints, understand emerging trends, and access cutting-edge research. This not only broadens the knowledge base of the partner organization but also aids in making well-informed decisions in their respective fields.

Enhanced Credibility and Visibility

Affiliation with PIF can bolster an organization’s reputation. By actively contributing to policy dialogues and initiatives, a partner organization can position itself as a thought leader and advocate in its sector. This can lead to increased trust from stakeholders, potential collaborations with other institutions, and better visibility in both local and global arenas. Engaging with PIF can, therefore, significantly elevate an organization’s standing in the policy ecosystem and beyond.

By partnering with us organizations can stay at the forefront of policy discussions, leverage a rich network of experts and influencers, and make meaningful contributions to shaping the future of their respective sectors.

PIF PARTNERS

Our Government Partners

The Policy Insights Forum is proud to collaborate with the Government of Canada, encompassing multiple Departments, Agencies, and Crown Corporations in our programming. Our shared objective is to actively engage diverse stakeholders, including the private sector, academic institutions, and foreign governments, in constructive dialogues surrounding crucial policy matters and issues. This collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering a whole-of-society approach to policymaking, ensuring that insights and perspectives from all sectors are considered in the policy development process.

Become a Government partner
PIF PARTNERS

Our International Partners

Collaborates with international entities, including NATO and the EU, as well as allied governments like the US and Belgium, to engage Canada’s private sector, academia, and governmental bodies on policy-related discussions and challenges.

Become an International partner
PIF PARTNERS

Our Media Partners

The Policy Insights Forum appreciates our strategic partnerships, notably with the Canadian Defence Review (CDR). Together, we engage in policy events and contribute to the CDR magazine, sharing our expertise with a broad audience. We’ve also partnered with tech leader Samuel Technologies to explore formats like online events, video casts, and podcasts, ensuring a diverse and seamless media experience. With our partners, we aim to drive impactful policy discussions.

Become a media partner

Become a Partner

We partner with Policy Think Tanks the US and Abroad. If your organization is seeking professional partnerships with Canadian Think-Tanks and NGOs, we would like to hear from you.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Sponsorship and Engagement

Make a difference today by donating to the PIF

The Policy Insights Forum (PIF) is fundamentally driven by our transformative private-sector engagement programmes and our growing initiatives which nurture the future leaders through internships and fellowships. These efforts form the bedrock of our mission to significantly shape Canadian policy and decision-making processes.

However, the path to this impact is deeply reliant not just on our team’s dedication, but also on the substantial inputs from private sector businesses and organizations, combined with the support of government-funded projects.

This synergy of resources empowers us to cultivate the coming generation of policy leaders, equipping them with the requisite knowledge and capabilities to instigate substantial change. The PIF heartily encourages all forms of donations and support. By pooling our resources, we can build a sturdy future for Canada that is marked by insightful policy-making and thoughtful decisions.

Investing in Our Canadian Democracy

Supporting the Policy Insights Forum is not just a donation; it’s an investment in knowledge, dialogue, and democratic resilience. Each contribution strengthens our capacity to influence policy, empower communities, and foster an informed citizenry that will help shape a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future.

Donate Today

Testimonials

Hear more about what others have to say about the PIF

Goran Samuel Pesic

Chairman and CEO of the Samuel Group

“ PIF’s role in shaping strategic policies, guiding Canada, influencing global conversations, and nurturing our future leaders has never been more crucial. Let’s not shy away but embrace the complexity of our times to create a prosperous, inclusive future for all.             

Fatima Atik

Executive Director

“PIF is more than an acronym—it’s our guide to Possibility, Innovation & the Future. Amid global challenges, its impact on Canada’s policies and leaders is key. Let’s tackle today’s     challenges for an inclusive tomorrow.                                                                                                                                                                                     

Dr. Paul Taillon

Vice Chairman

“The Policy Insights Forum plays a pivotal role in bolstering Canada's democratic foundation and vigorously promoting impactful policy measures. Furthermore, it offers indispensable insights and support to governmental bodies, academic institutions, and businesses in the private sector.

Inquiries

The Policy Insights Forum is open for media interviews on topics related to our core areas of expertise and organizational focus. Journalists and other media representatives seeking knowledgeable perspectives are encouraged to reach out to us for engaging discussions.
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You may contact the PIF through our Media and Press Point of Contact using the contact information listed below.
‍
We endeavour to respond to media inquiries as quickly as possible.

Aliénor Peyrefitte
Chief of Staff
alienor.peyrefitte@policyinsights.ca
If you are not a member of the media and have an inquiry about the Policy Insights Forum, please fill out our Contact Us page. A member of our staff will contact you during regular business hours.
PIF Associateships

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Get hands-on experience with experts in the field.
See Our Associateship Programs

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Latest on the Forum

An Open Letter to the New Prime Minister of Canada on Military Procurement
Mark Carney’s Victory: Renewing Canada’s Defence and Sovereignty Commitments
Stephen S. Poloz to Be Honoured at the North Star Award Gala Dinner

Contact Info

Business Hours
Monday-Friday
8:30am - 5:00pm
350 Sparks St, Suite 901
Ottawa, ON
K1R 7S8
(613) 292-3936
info@policyinsights.ca

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