As the 2026 municipal and school board elections approach, prospective candidates, third-party advertisers, youth, and community members have several free opportunities to learn about the election process, campaign planning, and leadership development.
Local opportunities include:
- Grey County Information Session for 2026 Election Candidates and Third-Party Advertisers on Wednesday, April 22
Hosted jointly by lower-tier municipalities throughout Grey County, this in-person and virtual session provides an overview of the municipal and school board election process, candidate responsibilities, and third-party advertising requirements. Learn more or register to attend in person or virtually at https://www.grey.ca/government/special-projects/2026-municipal-elections.
Additional free training opportunities available through the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) include:
- AMO: Stronger Leaders, Stronger Communities Program
Offered by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, this online leadership series supports first-time candidates and those considering re-election, with a focus on leadership skills, well-being, and values-based campaigning. Register at https://www.amo.on.ca/amos-healthy-democracy-leaders-series-stronger-leaders-stronger-communities.
- AMO: Workshops for Underrepresented Candidates
Facilitated by former municipal elected officials, these workshops focus on campaign fundamentals, messaging, and community engagement, with an emphasis on supporting individuals from underrepresented communities. Register at https://www.amo.on.ca/running-municipal-office-everything-you-need-know-underrepresented-candidate.
- AMO: Youth Information Sessions
Led by currently elected officials, these sessions support young people interested in running for office by covering candidate requirements, campaign basics, and voter engagement strategies. Register at https://www.amo.on.ca/information-session-youth-considering-running-municipal-office.
- AMO: Urban Indigenous Peoples’ Information Sessions
Facilitated by Indigenous leaders with electoral experience, these sessions provide guidance on running for municipal office while leading with cultural integrity and community connection. Register at https://www.amo.on.ca/information-session-urban-indigenous-peoples-considering-running-municipal-office.
