Governance Updates: 03/07/2025

​Today, the government of Canada announced funding for a variety of initiatives to support businesses and employees across Canada. The following supports will build on the existing services that the government of Canada provides. These include:

• Launching the Trade Impact Program through Export Development Canada. The program will deploy $5 billion over two years, starting this year, to help exporters reach new markets for Canadian products and help companies navigate the economic challenges imposed by the tariffs, including losses from non-payment, currency fluctuations, lack of access to cash flows, and barriers to expansion.
• Making $500 million in favourably priced loans available through the Business Development Bank of Canada to support impacted businesses in sectors directly targeted by tariffs, as well as companies in their supply chains. Businesses will also benefit from advisory services in areas such as financial management and market diversification.
• Providing $1 billion in new financing through Farm Credit Canada to reduce financial barriers for the Canadian agriculture and food industry. This lending offer will help address cash flow challenges so that businesses can adjust to a new operating environment and continue to supply the high-quality agricultural and food products that Canadians rely on.

In addition the government of Canada, will also updating the Investment Canada Act Guidelines to protect Canadian companies in reviewing foreign investments that could threaten national security.

Along with supporting businesses, the government of Canada will be introducing temporary flexibilities to the EI Work-Sharing Program to increase access and maximum agreement duration. The Work-Sharing Program provides partial EI benefits to employees who agree with their employer to work reduced hours due to a decrease in business activity beyond their employer’s control. This helps employers retain experienced workers and avoid layoffs and helps workers maintain their employment and skills while supplementing the reduced wages with EI benefits.

Click here to view the full press release.