Call for Papers 

The Global Initiative for Governance and Sustainability (GIGS) is pleased to announce the call for papers for the Sustainability, Natural Capital, ESG, & Value Creation Conference, to be held in the spectacular setting of Niagara Falls, Canada, on October 10-11, 2026.

We invite original research contributions that offer fresh insights and advance the understanding of sustainability natural capital, and value creation. 

This conference is highly selective and will feature six to eight curated academic paper presentations and a distinguished panel discussion with internationally renowned scholars and practitioners.

Designed to foster rigorous academic exchange and cross-sector collaboration, the conference will bring together leading researchers, industry experts, and policymakers to engage in meaningful dialogue and shape the future of sustainable finance and governance. In keeping with the spirit of focused interaction, the small number of presentations will allow for in-depth feedback, critical engagement, and scholarly discussion around each selected paper.

We especially encourage submissions that explore the integration of natural capital into financial and policy decision-making, including but not limited to how natural capital accounting, ecosystem services valuation, and biodiversity considerations contribute to corporate strategy, ESG metrics, and long-term value creation.

Relevant topics include (but are not limited to):

• Innovative sustainable finance mechanisms
• ESG performance and corporate financial outcomes
• The role of natural capital and ecosystem valuation in financial reporting
• Green bonds: structure, impact, and effectiveness
• Sustainable investing and shareholder value
• Illicit financial flows and their implications for sustainable development
• Climate risk assessment and financial disclosure
• The role of governance in driving sustainability and resilience
• Disruptive technologies and their impact on sustainability and value creation
• Sustainability reporting standards, greenwashing, and regulatory oversight

Submission must contain an abstract of 500 words maximum, and the full paper, including any appendices and references. The submission can be made in PDF or Word format. Submission will be accepted until Sept 4, 2026 at 23:59 Toronto Time (UTC-4)

Join us in shaping critical conversations at the intersection of sustainability, natural capital, and financial innovation. We look forward to your submissions and to welcoming you to what promises to be a landmark event in the field. 

Submission Closed

Conference Accomodation

We have negotiated a competitive rate with Four Points by Sheraton St. Catharines Niagara Suites for $199 CAD for Oct 9-10 and $179 for Oct 11-12. The hotel is walking distance from the conference venue at the Goodman School of Business of Brock University.

Hotel booking link: https://app.marriott.com/resview2?id=1788466585092&key=GRP&app=resvlink