Small businesses are the backbone of Canada's economy, driving innovation, creating good jobs and strengthening communities across the country. That's why the federal government is taking concrete steps to ensure they have better access to federal procurement opportunities.
Today, the Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism), on behalf of the Honourable Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant, and the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, highlighted the first measures launched under the new Small Business Procurement Program (SBPP), which aim to reduce barriers to federal contracting and expand opportunities for Canadian small businesses. Minister Valdez was joined by the Honourable Bardish Chagger, Member of Parliament for Waterloo, and Tim Louis, Member of Parliament for Kitchener-Conestoga.
The measures will simplify procurement processes, help Canadian small businesses navigate federal contracting, and expand access to government opportunities. The federal government is also investing $79.9 million over five years through Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's Innovative Solutions Canada program to help Canadian small businesses develop, test and demonstrate innovative products and technologies, including through federal procurement opportunities.
Together, these efforts will help more Canadian businesses compete for federal contracts, grow their operations and create good jobs, while putting federal purchasing power to work for Canadian businesses and communities.
