Where the World of
Seeds Comes Together
The biggest global platform for the seed sector
The ISF World Seed Congress is the annual meeting point for the global seed industry, bringing together business leaders, policy makers, scientists, and partners from across the value chain. Established in 1924, the Congress serves as a unique platform for dialogue, trade, collaboration, and knowledge exchange.
Each year, it provides unparalleled opportunities to connect, share expertise, and shape the discussions that drive innovation and sustainability in the seed sector. Through plenary sessions, panel discussions, and thousands of business meetings, the Congress fosters partnerships and collective action toward a more resilient and food-secure future.
The Voice of the Global Seed Sector
Seed is life
Since 1924, the International Seed Federation (ISF) has represented the global seed industry as a non-governmental, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing sustainable agriculture and food security. Widely recognized as the voice of the international seed sector, ISF brings together members from across the world to promote collaboration, innovation, and responsible growth.
ISF’s vision is a world where the best quality seed is accessible to all, supporting sustainable agriculture and ensuring food security for future generations. Its mission is to create the best environment for the global movement of seed and to promote plant breeding and innovation in seed. Guided by values of collaboration, integrity, innovation, and sustainability, ISF works to foster cooperation and trust within the seed community and beyond.
In close partnership with its members, ISF drives forward its Strategic Objectives 2026–2030, focusing on key priorities that strengthen the seed sector’s contribution to society. The Federation advocates for science-based and fair regulations that facilitate the free movement of seed, promotes the protection of intellectual property rights for plant varieties and technologies, and establishes internationally recognized rules for seed trade and licensing.
Through its work, ISF enhances recognition of the seed industry’s vital role in global food systems. It provides platforms for dialogue, dispute resolution, and strategic collaboration, and partners with international organizations shaping agricultural policy. By connecting people, ideas, and innovation, ISF continues to build a sustainable and resilient future for the world of seeds.
Discover Toronto, A City of Energy, Culture, and Connection
The 2027 Host City
The Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) is Canada’s largest convention facility, located in the heart of downtown Toronto at 255 Front Street West. Opened in 1984 and expanded over the years, the MTCC offers over 64,000 square metres of flexible event space across two interconnected buildings — the North and South Buildings. The facility is purpose-built to host world-class congresses, trade shows, and international conferences, and has welcomed millions of delegates from around the globe.
The venue is equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual and telecommunications infrastructure. Accessibility is a core commitment, with the facility fully compliant with Ontario’s accessibility standards to ensure a welcoming experience for all attendees.
Ideally situated in Toronto’s downtown core, the MTCC is within walking distance of Union Station — Toronto’s central transit hub — providing direct access to the TTC subway, GO Transit, and the UP Express airport train to Toronto Pearson International Airport. Guests will find hundreds of hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions within easy reach, including the CN Tower and the vibrant Lake Ontario waterfront. The MTCC’s central location makes it one of North America’s most conveniently accessible convention destinations.
Address
Metro Toronto Convention Centre
255 Front St W
Toronto, ON M5V 2T6, Canada
www.mtcc.com
From Union Station: 5-minute walk
From city centre: TTC Streetcar 509/510 (10 mins)
How to get to the congress venue?
Airport
The Toronto Pearson International Airport is located 27 km from the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC), providing flights to more than 180 national and international destinations.
Taxi & Ridesharing
Taxis are available at the airport; a trip to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre takes 25–35 minutes (traffic dependent) and costs CAD 55.00 – CAD 80.00. Uber and Lyft are convenient alternatives.
Public Transport
The MTCC is well served by the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission). Take the UP Express train from Pearson Airport to Union Station (25-28 mins), then walk via the indoor SkyWalk directly to MTCC. Trains depart every 15 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes off-peak, running daily from early morning to late evening. Fares start at CAD 12.35 with a PRESTO card or CAD 17.00 for a standard single ticket.
Car Rental
All major car rental companies (Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National) are available at Toronto Pearson Airport’s Ground Transportation Centre. We recommend booking in advance to secure the best rates. For parking near the MTCC, the venue has its own underground garage, and several public lots are available within walking distance. Please note that downtown Toronto parking rates can be high, and availability is not guaranteed during peak event periods. We recommend using public transit where possible.
Public transportation
The TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) subway operates daily from approximately 6:00 AM to 1:30 AM, including weekends and holidays, with additional night bus services.
Ticket options
TTC Single Journey: CAD 3.30 (cash) or CAD 3.20 (PRESTO card), valid for 2 hours across TTC subway, streetcar, and bus networks.
TTC 24-Hour Ticket
Day Pass (unlimited travel): CAD 13.50
PRESTO Card (reloadable): recommended for convenience and savings
GO Transit (regional rail to suburbs and airport area): CAD 6.00+
For detailed maps, journey planning, and the latest updates, please visit the official website
UP Express – Airport Train
The Union Pearson Express (UP Express) is the fastest way to travel between Toronto Pearson International Airport and downtown Toronto. Trains depart every 15 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes off-peak, running daily from early morning to late evening. Fares start at CAD 12.35 with a PRESTO card or CAD 17.00 for a standard single ticket. Union Station is directly connected to the TTC subway and is just a short walk from the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
For schedules and tickets:
Useful facts
Health and Medical Services
- Canada has a public health system. Visitors are not covered by provincial health insurance and should arrange private travel health insurance before arrival. Many hospitals and walk-in clinics are available in Toronto.
- In emergencies, call 911 (emergency number).
- Pharmacies: Widely available; major chains include Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall, many with 24-hour locations.
Time Zone
- Eastern Time (ET) / Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
- Standard time: UTC−5.
- Daylight saving: UTC−4 in summer (typically second Sunday of March to first Sunday of November).
Language
- English is the primary language in Toronto.
Climate in May
- Mild spring weather, typically 15–20°C daytime, cooler evenings; occasional rain.
Electricity
- 120 V / 60 Hz.
- Plugs: Type A (two flat parallel pins) and Type B (two flat pins + round grounding pin). Visitors from Europe and most other regions will need a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter. Bring a universal adapter if needed.
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD, $).
Visa
Participants are responsible for ensuring they meet all entry requirements for Canada. Depending on your nationality, you may require a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter the country. We strongly encourage all delegates to verify the applicable requirements with the nearest Canadian embassy, consulate, or official Government of Canada immigration website and to begin the application process as early as possible, as processing times may vary. Upon request, we can provide an invitation letter to support a visa application; however, such a letter does not guarantee visa approval. We strongly recommend starting the procedure at the latest 3 months before the Congress.
What do US citizens need?
A valid passport is sufficient. No visa or eTA required.
What do citizens from visa-exempt countries need?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required when travelling by air. An eTA is quick and easy to obtain online via smartphone or computer. Most applications are approved within minutes, but we recommend applying a few months before your travel date in case additional documents are requested. Apply for your eTA here.
For citizens of other countries
A visitor visa must be obtained before travelling to Canada. Check whether your country requires a visa: visa-required countries list.
Biometric Requirements
Travelers from countries that require a visa must also provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) as part of their visa application. Biometrics must be collected in person at one of the 139 Visa Application Centres (VACs) located in 53 countries worldwide. Please note:
The information provided above is for general guidance purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the event organizers cannot be held responsible for any changes to visa regulations, entry requirements, or the outcome of any visa or eTA application. Delegates are solely responsible for obtaining the necessary travel documents and are advised to consult the official Government of Canada website or their nearest Canadian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.
Enjoy warm hospitality and a pleasant stay
Toronto is one of North America’s premier congress destinations, offering over 35,000 hotel rooms in the downtown core alone, with properties ranging from internationally renowned luxury brands to boutique and value-priced options. The city’s vibrant hotel scene includes award-winning properties steps away from the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, connected by Toronto’s extensive PATH underground walkway network. With world-class service standards and a welcoming multicultural atmosphere, Toronto consistently ranks among the top cities for international delegate experience.
Hotel reservations will be handled by our Core PCO, K.I.T. Group GmbH, through a dedicated online portal accessible only to registered participants.
Bookings for individual guests can be made by clicking on the button below.
Should you wish to place a booking for larger groups of more than 9 delegates, please contact K.IT. Group directly.
Email: isfwsc-hotel@kit-group.org
Contact person: Mrs. Anita Ernst
