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Report on the Procurement Seminar & Luncheon with Defence Construction Canada (DCC)

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Latvia (CanCham) hosted the third seminar in its “Making the Connection” series on Monday, February 16th, 2026, bringing together 144 registered participants at the Radisson Blu Daugava Hotel & Spa in Riga.

This session focused specifically on infrastructure and construction-related services, featuring Defence Construction Canada (DCC), which is leading a major Canadian military infrastructure investment program in support of Task Force Latvia (TFL).

DCC is a Crown corporation of the Government of Canada responsible for delivering infrastructure and environmental projects in support of Canada’s national defence.

This seminar was organised in collaboration with the Latvian Construction Association (LBA).

This seminar:

• Provided detailed information on DCC’s procurement process for infrastructure and construction-related services
• Identified DCC’s immediate and longer-term procurement requirements in Latvia
• Explained how to apply to DCC’s Vetted Vendor List, including security clearance requirements
• Shared best practices for successful participation in DCC tenders
• Facilitated direct contact between participants and DCC representatives

The program included presentations from DCC officials and focused on DCC-issued tenders for infrastructure projects and construction-related services.

Participants had the opportunity to briefly introduce themselves and their organisations. This helped those in attendance — particularly DCC representatives — identify potential partners, contractors, and suppliers.

Canada has made a crucial commitment to Latvia’s security by renewing the mandate of Operation REASSURANCE until 2029. This operation is currently the Canadian Armed Forces’ (CAF) largest overseas military deployment, through which the CAF contributes to NATO deterrence and defence measures in Central and Eastern Europe. Under this mission, Canada is the Framework Nation for the NATO multinational brigade in Latvia.

Task Force Latvia (TFL) is the National Command Element that supports the Canadian contribution to NATO in Latvia. This includes investment in military infrastructure and coordination of the requirements needed to deliver this effort through local procurement.

H.E. Brian Szwarc, Ambassador of Canada to Latvia, provided an overall review of the Canadian contribution to TFL and the continued commitment of Canada to the security in Latvia and the Baltic region. Nicolas Forget, Vice-President, Operations – Procurement, Defense Construction Canada outlined the overall DCC approach and strategy.

Presentations were then provided by LCol Samantha Van De Kracht, Commanding Officer – Engineer Support Unit, Task Force Latvia who addressed operational infrastructure priorities, and Melanie Pouliot, National Director, Contract Services, Defense Construction Canada who provided practical guidance on DCC contracting procedures.

Presentation materials and contact information were made available to event participants following the seminar.

The seminar was followed by a luncheon and intensive networking session, allowing participants to engage directly with DCC and TFL representatives.

This event marked a continuation of the cooperation process between CanCham members and friends, Task Force Latvia, and Defence Construction Canada. Similar events are expected to take place annually in the coming years to further strengthen this cooperation. These complement the annual engagement activities organised by TFL’s service procurement group.