Shaw Centre
17,837 sqm
Indoor Space
6,000
Plenary Capacity
4,640
Banquet Capacity
28
Breakout Rooms
1
Exhibition Halls
About this Venue
The Shaw Centre, formerly known as the Ottawa Convention Centre, is an architectural icon and state-of-the-art convention facility located in the heart of Canada's capital. It features a sweeping glass façade offering panoramic views of the Rideau Canal (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Parliament Hill, and other Ottawa landmarks. The fully accessible facility boasts 17,837 sqm (192,000 sq ft) of usable event space, equipped with leading-edge technology infrastructure and environmentally sustainable features. It is recognized for its modern, minimalist interior design, combining form, function, and flexibility for conventions, meetings, trade shows, galas, receptions, banquets, and entertainment.
Images
6 photos
Venue at a Glance
Venue Type
Convention Centre
City
Ottawa
Country
CA
Total Indoor Space
17,837 sqm
Max Plenary
6,000
Max Banquet
4,640
Breakout Rooms
28
Exhibition Halls
1
Airport Distance
20 min
Full Address
55 Colonel By Dr, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 9J2, CA
Event Spaces & Rooms
8 configurable spaces
| Space Name | Type | Theatre | Classroom | Banquet | Reception | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Big Event Hall (Level Three) | exhibition_hall | — | — | — | — | — |
| Trillium Ballroom | ballroom | — | — | — | — | — |
| Room 101 | meeting_room | — | — | — | — | — |
| Room 102 | meeting_room | — | — | — | — | — |
| Room 103 | meeting_room | — | — | — | — | — |
| Room 105 | meeting_room | — | — | — | — | — |
| Canada Hall | multi_purpose_hall | — | — | — | — | — |
| Colonel By Foyer | foyer | — | — | — | — | — |
Sustainability
The Shaw Centre is committed to environmental responsibility, evidenced by its LEED Gold certification. Its sustainable practices include using Green Seal or EcoLogo certified cleaning products, an ORCA waste management system that converts food waste into environmentally safe water, and a comprehensive recycling program for metals, paper/cardboard, glass, plastics, batteries/bulbs, and electronics. The building incorporates low-VOC materials, low-flow plumbing, a cistern system for stormwater recycling, and a high reflective roof. Energy-saving features include double-glazed, low-e coated windows, daylight sensors, and CO2 sensors to adjust ventilation. The Centre also uses materials from the former Ottawa Congress Centre in its construction and purchases renewable energy. It encourages clients to participate in a 'Leave a Legacy Program' for donating leftover goods.
Certifications
Notable Past Events
5 events hosted
Subvention & Funding Support
The Shaw Centre (formerly Ottawa Convention Centre) is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Crown in the Province of Ontario. Its construction was funded by a multi-tiered government investment, including $50 million from the Canadian government, $50 million from the Ontario government, and $40 million from the City of Ottawa, with the Centre borrowing the remaining $30 million.
Plan Your Event Here
Submit an RFP to get a customized proposal for your event at Shaw Centre.
Quick Facts
- Airport
- 20 min drive
- Exhibition Halls
- 1
- Breakout Rooms
- 28
- Indoor Space
- 17,837 sqm
Contact Information
Destination
Ottawa, Canada
North America — North America
View destination profileData Quality
Bronze
Last Verified
27 Mar 2026