Support the export mobilization of Canadian small- and medium-sized enterprises and ensure maximization of Canada's comparative advantage with its vibrant diversity and diaspora communities.

What success looks like

Canadians SMEs, from high growth firms trying to achieve export readiness, to under-represented businesses, to more established ones seeking to diversify export markets, are supported through access to information, direct financial assistance (for export ready companies), and government-led trade missions.

Government's narrative on progress

The 2018 Fall Economic Statement announced the government’s intention to launch an Export Diversification Strategy, with a target of increasing Canada’s overseas exports by 50% by 2025. In total, the Export Diversification Strategy will invest $1.1 billion over six years, starting in 2018-19, to help Canadian businesses access new markets The Strategy will focus on three key components: 1) Investing in infrastructure to support trade by accelerating infrastructure spending and improving transportation data ($787.5 million); 2) Providing Canadian businesses with resources to execute their export plans ($198 million); and 3) Enhancing trade services, including the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) and other federal capacity at home and around the world ($184 million). With new funding having been earmarked by Budget 2018, through the Women’s Entrepreneurship Strategy, to enlarging the Business Women in International Trade missions program and to expanding dedicated resources, there will be enhanced Trade Commissioner Service capacity to promote opportunities for under-represented client groups in international trade and to respond to the unique barriers faced by this business segment.

Note: this is the government's own description, not an independent assessment.