Election Resources
Supporting your Run for Municipal Office in 2026
Lead Where You Live is AMO’s comprehensive guide for anyone considering running in the 2026 municipal election. This resource walks you through what municipal councils do, what it means to serve your community, and the steps involved in launching a successful campaign. Whether you’re exploring the idea or preparing to file your nomination, this guide provides practical information, tools, and insights to support your journey.
AMO’s Free Workshop Series and Leadership Programs
AMO is offering programs designed to support aspiring candidates and returning elected officials. Whether you are considering your first run for office, seeking re-election, represent an underrepresented community, or a youth, we have a program tailored for you. View details of the free workshops below. Currently in development is a session for Indigenous candidates-stay tuned for more information.
AMO's Healthy Democracy Leadership Series: Supporting Local Leadership in run up to the 2026 Municipal Elections
AMO's Healthy Democracy Leadership Series: Supporting Local Leadership in run up to the 2026 Municipal Elections
Join AMO’s new online workshop series for leaders seeking re-election or first-time aspiring candidates— offered at no charge for participants.
As Ontario heads toward the 2026 municipal elections, elected officials and aspiring candidates are being tested like never before. From navigating divisive politics and social media toxicity to maintaining personal wellbeing under constant public scrutiny, the demands of leadership can feel overwhelming.
Developed in partnership with Nominee, Stronger Leaders, Stronger Communities is designed to equip you with the tools, resilience, and confidence to meet these challenges head-on — and to rediscover the purpose that brought you to public service in the first place.
This workshop series is being offered for no charge in two streams:
- Stream 1: For elected officials at the municipal level across Ontario who are considering re-election in 2026 and preparing their path forward.
- Stream 2: For community members considering a run for municipal office in 2026—first-time candidates who want to build confidence before launching a campaign. Civic-minded leaders who want to explore whether elected office is right for them.
Workshop dates: each workshop runs 6:30 - 8:00pm
- Stream 1:
- February 25, 2026
- March 25, 2026
- Stream 2:
- March 4, 2026
- April 1, 2026
New dates available for Stream 1 and Stream 2:
- Stream 1:
- February 19, 2026
- March 26, 2026
- April 23, 2026
- May 7, 2026
- Stream 2:
- March 10, 2026
- April 7, 2026
- April 28, 2026
- May 19, 2026
Running for Municipal Office-Everything You Need to Know as an Underrepresented Candidate
Running for Municipal Office-Everything You Need to Know as an Underrepresented Candidate
This workshop will prepare you for municipal office and equip you with what to expect running as an underrepresented candidate as well as key strategies for running a successful campaign.
Date:
- April 8, 2026 - 10:00am - 11:30am
Registration: FREE
An Information Session for Youth Considering Running for Municipal Office
An Information Session for Youth Considering Running for Municipal Office
If you are a youth interested in running for municipal council in October 2026, we have a workshop for you! The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is offering a series of workshops for young people thinking about running for municipal office in the October 2026 elections.
These sessions will provide insights and strategies to build your understanding and confidence around how to become a candidate and running a campaign.
Facilitated by three current municipal leaders, Natasha Salonen-Mayor of the Township of Wilmont, Cam Wales-Councillor City of Brockville and Aidan Kallioinen-Councillor Town of Espanola, you will gain firsthand insight into
- What to expect running as a candidate and as young person
- Critical strategies for successfully campaigning for municipal office
- Understand what it takes to become a candidate
- Strategies for engagement including communication
- And more!
Dates:
- Wednesday, February 18, 6:30-8:00PM
- Wednesday, March 11, 6:30-8:00PM
- Wednesday, April 15, 6:30-8:00PM
Registration: FREE