KPMG Canada‘s latest outlook predicts that Canada’s 2026 M&A activity will be driven by nation-building in infrastructure, energy, and critical minerals. These are consequential sectors that will shape our country’s economic future—and many boards currently lack the governance competencies they require.

Having served on boards through complex M&A transactions, I know the specialized skills these deals require. Boards need ESG and sustainability expertise to meet tightening climate disclosure requirements. They need sophisticated financial oversight for complex deal structures. And they need AI and technology literacy to govern digital transformation.

I’m concerned that these sectors—infrastructure, energy, and critical minerals—are the very ones where women’s board representation lags behind the overall average. The Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP 2025 Diversity Disclosure Practices report confirmed that momentum toward gender parity has slowed, with women holding 29.8% of TSX-listed board seats.

Women leaders with finance, ESG, and technology expertise are ready for board service. At Women Get On Board Inc. (WGOB), our 850+ members bring exactly the competencies nation-building demands.

I encourage nominating committees and executive search firms to expand their search beyond traditional networks. The qualified candidates exist. Deliberately broadening where you look will help you find the diverse expertise these boards need.

As we approach 2026, I encourage boards preparing for nation-building opportunities to look beyond familiar sources. The talent pool is ready.

Learn more about the KPMG outlook here: Nation-building to spur Canadian M&A in 2026 poll shows