Blog: Six Predictions for 2026: A More Connected Waterloo Region
In a world of constant change and uncertainty, Waterloo Region has the opportunity to become stronger and more connected in the year ahead. But how? At Waterloo Region Community Foundation (WRCF), we believe the answer lies in how we embrace social infrastructure – the spaces, experiences, and resources that help people build trust and connection in meaningful ways. As we begin 2026, I thought I’d risk making some New Year’s predictions, anticipating six ways social infrastructure will shape our region.
1) Civic priorities will spotlight connection
With municipal elections on the horizon, expect candidates and councils to elevate issues of belonging, inclusion, and shared spaces. Social infrastructure, places for gathering and interacting including parks, libraries, cultural hubs, and community programs, will become part of the conversation about what makes Waterloo Region livable and welcoming. This is an opportunity for residents, donors, and community leaders to advocate for investments that strengthen trust and connection.
2) Small projects make a big impact
More block events, community gardens, and shared tool sheds. More walking clubs, pop-up dinners, and parklets. More community murals, porch parties, and little libraries. The number of neighbourhood-scale investments will grow because they deliver quick wins and tangible benefits. Donors will start looking beyond large capital projects to fund more of these grassroots ideas that make daily life more connected.
3) Shared spaces become more flexible and more welcoming
Libraries, arts venues, faith spaces, and recreation centres will open their doors wider, offering multi-use programming and extended hours. More will become “third places” that bridge generations and cultures, doubling as warm, low-barrier hubs during challenging times, like extreme weather or economic stress.
4) Co-creation and collaborations become the norm
When solutions are co-designed with residents, especially youth, newcomers, and Indigenous-led partners, trust and participation soar. Expect more partnerships with community and collaborations across government, health, education, business, and philanthropy sectors that rethink how we give and give back.
5) We lean into “connection equity”
Community institutions and funders will pay closer attention to who has access to social infrastructure, and who doesn’t. If the goal is to ensure that all our residents have the opportunity to fully participate in community life, we will design our social infrastructure to supersede the various cultural, economic, and physical barriers that separate us.
6) Digital tools will complement in-person connections, not replace them
Technology will play a bigger role in helping people discover local events, volunteer opportunities, and shared spaces. The emphasis will shift toward using digital platforms to spark real-world interactions, not as a substitute for them. Expect more tools that make it easier to find activities and connect—while keeping the focus on real-world engagement.
Admittedly, the future can’t be predicted via a blog. The future is something we will create together. Residents, donors, charities, and civic leaders all have a role to play in shaping a region where trust and connection thrive. If you’re ready to invest, advocate, or simply share your ideas, WRCF is here to make it easier to do more good with insights, partnerships, and catalytic grants that make a difference. Let’s make 2026 the year Waterloo Region leads in building spaces and experiences where everyone feels they belong, a year when connection becomes our strongest infrastructure.
Eric Avner
WRCF President & CEO
eric@wrcf.ca