Across Ontario, non-profit housing providers are pushing boundaries, solving problems, and proving that community housing is central to a stronger, more affordable future. This fall, nearly 1,000 housing professionals will gather at the 2025 ONPHA Conference to share bold ideas, build new partnerships, and shape what comes next. 

As we get ready for one of our sector’s biggest events of the year, here are three big ideas our team is bringing into the space, and the big questions we’re ready to explore together. 

Big idea #1: An acquisition fund is critical infrastructure 

We’re losing affordable rental homes faster than we can build new ones.  Dedicated national and provincial acquisition funds would give non-profits the capital and speed they need to buy existing buildings and keep them affordable. It’s a long-term solution that protects the housing we already have and builds resilience into the system. 

Key question we’re asking: 
How can we design an acquisition fund that allows non-profits to compete with private buyers at the speed and scale needed to preserve affordable housing? 

Big idea #2: Building resilience means rethinking the way we work 

Our world is changing and so are the needs of the people we serve. The community housing sector has shown incredible strength, but we know we can’t rely on outdated systems and legacy models to meet today’s challenges. 

To thrive in this new environment, we need to think differently. That means letting go of systems that no longer serve us and embracing new ways of working. 

Whether it’s rethinking how we fund and operate housing or building stronger, more diverse leadership, the time to evolve is now. The community housing sector is ready to lead that transformation with the right tools, partnerships, and policies in place. 

Key question we’re asking: 
What shifts (big or small) will help us build a more resilient and responsive housing system for the future? 

Big idea #3: Community housing is a solution to more than just the housing crisis 

Community housing does more than provide shelter. The sector helps address some of the toughest challenges we face today, from climate change and health to equity and economic stability. When we invest in community housing, we’re investing in stronger, more connected communities. 

Key question we’re asking: 
How do we shift the story from “community housing as a last resort” to “community housing as a smart investment”? 

What’s your big idea? 

What do you want to ask, share, or challenge at this year’s ONPHA Conference? You’re invited to be a part of the conversation!  

Come ready to learn and connect with sector leaders, policymakers, and innovators and be part of shaping what comes next. 

Join us in Toronto, October 30 to November 1.  

Visit conference.onpha.on.ca to learn more and register. 

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