The federal government is investing more than $3.2 million in the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade and its subsidiary World Trade Centre-Vancouver to help British Columbia businesses expand into domestic markets across Canada.
The funding, announced recently by Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence Jill McKnight on behalf of Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson, will support a program called Canada Connect aimed at helping companies increase sales and strengthen supply chains within Canada.
The announcement comes as Ottawa pushes to increase domestic trade activity and reduce barriers between provinces and territories. The Canada Connect initiative is intended to provide businesses with market information, training, trade missions and advisory services designed to help companies identify new customers and business opportunities elsewhere in the country.
The government said participating companies are expected to expand revenues, reach additional Canadian buyers and create jobs in British Columbia and other regions.
“British Columbia’s entrepreneurs and businesses have the talent, drive and innovation that Canada needs right now. With this PacifiCan investment, Canada Connect will give them a real pathway to new customers, new partners, and new revenue in markets across the country. This is what building one strong Canadian economy looks like.”
Gregor Robertson made the comments in a statement issued through Pacific Economic Development Canada, also known as PacifiCan.
McKnight said the initiative is intended to support businesses seeking to grow beyond their provincial markets.
“Delta is home to ambitious businesses that are ready to grow. This investment gives British Columbia entrepreneurs tools and supports they need to unlock new opportunities across Canada. We are making it easier for B.C. entrepreneurs to expand their business in other provinces, creating stable, long-term careers that strengthen communities and build an economy that works for everyone.”
Ethan Woo photo
The federal government said the funding aligns with a broader strategy to strengthen domestic commerce. In April, Ottawa launched the Domestic Trade Commissioners Network, bringing together representatives from provinces, territories and regional development agencies to support businesses looking to operate in additional Canadian markets.
PacifiCan said partnerships with organizations such as the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade are part of that effort.
The investment was scheduled to be highlighted during a Canada Connect reception at Web Summit Vancouver, a technology conference being held in the city. Through PacifiCan, the federal government is also providing $6.6 million to support Web Summit Vancouver.
The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade said the Canada Connect program builds on previous efforts by its World Trade Centre-Vancouver to help companies develop business opportunities.
“Strengthening trade within Canada is a fundamental step toward long-term economic sovereignty and building a more prosperous, resilient economy. Through the Canada Connect program, entrepreneurs will get the support they need to grow sales, create good jobs, and strengthen domestic supply chains. This work builds on our World Trade Centre’s track record of supporting over 600 companies in generating hundreds of millions in new revenue. We look forward to helping businesses here in B.C. and across Canada build their networks and reach new customers.”
The statement from Bridgitte Anderson, president and chief executive of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, said the organization sees domestic trade as an opportunity for business growth and supply chain development.
According to figures included in the release, about $530 billion worth of goods and services moves across provincial and territorial borders each year, representing nearly 20 per cent of Canada’s gross domestic product.
The release also said eliminating internal trade barriers across Canada could increase GDP by as much as $200 billion over time, equivalent to roughly $5,100 per person.
Founded in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade said its membership represents about one-third of British Columbia’s workforce and includes businesses across the province.
Mario Toneguzzi
Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Entrepreneur. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 and 2024 as one of the top business journalists in the world by PR News. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024, 2025 and 2026.
About Us
Canada’s Entrepreneur is the number one community media platform in Canada for entrepreneurs and business owners. Established in 2016, our podcast team has interviewed over 800 Canadian entrepreneurs from coast-to-coast. With hosts in each province, entrepreneurs have a local and national format to tell their stories, talk about their journey and provide inspiration for anyone starting their entrepreneurial journey and well- established founders.
The commitment to a grass roots approach has built a loyal audience on all our social channels and YouTube – 500,000+ lifetime YouTube views, 250,000 + audio downloads, 50,000 + average monthly social impressions, 15,000 + engaged social followers and 120,000 newsletter subscribers. Canada’s Entrepreneur is proud to provide a local, national and international presence for Canadian entrepreneurs to build their brand and tell their story
