The National Capital Commission is embarking on a bid to win the hearts and minds of Canadians across the country.

It commissioned a survey by Ipsos-Reid that revealed that only 46 to 51 per cent of Canadians feel that the capital region is relevant to them, and even fewer said they felt any ownership of the capital.

While the survey revealed that 73 to 87 per cent of those who had visited the city left with positive perceptions, the NCC’s CEO, Marie Lemay,  said it’s not in the tourism business.

“We want to promote the region’s value as a capital, people should care about the capital component which is not easy to explain,” said Lemay.

The survey which cost $86,000 showed that Canadians see the capital’s strengths its history, beauty, and its welcoming nature.

On the other hand, the survey said that Canadians expect their capital to be more environmentally friendly, reflective of the whole country, and inspiring.

To bridge this gap the NCC has hired brand consultants at the cost of $2.5 million over 5 years.

The NCC will incorporate its new pan-Canadian brand into its Plan for Canada’s Capital which will outline a vision for the Ottawa-Gatineau region for the next 50 years.

In other business the commission discussed the potential site of a monument commemorating the Canadian Navy at Nepean Point.