As global trade dynamics shift and new opportunities emerge beyond the United States, Canadian businesses are facing a pivotal moment. ScaleUP Calgary, held June 8–10 for its third year, brought this conversation to the forefront—equipping companies with the tools, networks, and insights needed to successfully expand into international markets.
The timing proved critical. With Canada intensifying its focus on trade diversification and strengthening ties across the Asia-Pacific region, businesses—particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)—have been under increasing pressure to think globally. Despite making up 97.4% of exporting enterprises in Canada, only 15% of SMEs currently export, highlighting a significant gap in global competitiveness.
At the same time, advances in artificial intelligence, digital technology, and access to capital have been lowering traditional barriers to international growth. For Alberta companies, this convergence of economic pressure and technological opportunity marked a clear inflection point.
In the video, Dr. Simon Raby, Professor of Innovation & Entrepreneurship at the Bissett School of Business at Mount Royal University and Founder of ScaleUP, shared insights on why Western Canadian companies are increasingly looking beyond the U.S., which industries are best positioned for international growth in 2026, and what sets successful scaling companies apart. Jamie Comstock, Vice President and Head of Commercial Banking for Alberta at National Bank, discussed the key financial considerations for companies expanding internationally, including managing risk, cash flow, and investment strategies.
As Calgary continues to position itself as a hub for innovation and trade diversification, the message was clear: for Canadian companies ready to scale, the global growth moment is now.
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.
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