Business Development Bank of Canada

This Corporate Plan Summary for 2026-27 to 2030-31 outlines the strategic direction to empower entrepreneurs and strengthen the Canadian economy. It focuses on four key strategic objectives: enhancing growth and competitiveness through support for small and mid-sized firms and AI adoption; empowering SMEs to address significant challenges such as national sovereignty, climate change, and business transfers; increasing the reach and relevance of support to entrepreneurs, including through Community Banking and Indigenous economic reconciliation; and delivering a world-class client and employee experience by leveraging AI and streamlining processes. The overarching goal is to fortify Canadian SMEs, reinforce strategic supply chains, and build a resilient and thriving Canadian economy.

The meeting began with an acknowledgment of the traditional and unseeded territory of the Gan Gihaga Mohawk Nation, emphasizing a commitment to advancing reconciliation and supporting indigenous businesses through initiatives like pair certification and partnership with the First Nations Bank of Canada. Key discussions revolved around BDC's 80-year history, including its origins in supporting returning war veterans. Current strategic shifts focus on leaning into the development role by supporting younger, higher-risk businesses, requiring careful calibration against financial sustainability goals. Future priorities include addressing new risks like trade disruption, tariff uncertainty, and the defense and security of Canada's economic infrastructure. BDC is committed to financing 100,000 additional enterprises over the next decade and improving productivity through technology, having deployed a generative AI tool saving over 23,000 hours in 15 weeks. Support was also provided to entrepreneurs affected by US tariff uncertainty.

This Accessibility Plan for the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) details the organization's strategy to identify, prevent, and remove accessibility barriers from 2026 to 2028. The plan is structured around eight key areas: Organization-Wide Initiatives, Employment, The built environment, Information and communication technologies (ICT), Communication, The procurement of goods, services and facilities, The design and delivery of programs and services, and Transportation. BDC is committed to fostering an inclusive and barrier-free environment for all employees, clients, and partners, ensuring equitable access to services for Canadian entrepreneurs and an accessible work experience, guided by continuous consultation with people with disabilities.

This document outlines the Business Development Bank of Canada's (BDC) ongoing commitment to supporting Canadian entrepreneurs. It details BDC's historical mission and current services, including financing, venture capital, and advisory services. Key strategic priorities include increasing support for entrepreneurs by taking on more risk and expanding small loans, optimizing resource allocation, enhancing productivity, and fostering client satisfaction. The plan also emphasizes inclusive and sustainable growth through dedicated platforms for Indigenous and Black-led businesses and significant environmental investments. A primary future objective is to finance an additional 100,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) over the next ten years, while navigating economic challenges.

The corporate plan summary for the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) outlines strategic objectives focused on spurring SME growth, increasing support for entrepreneurs, empowering SMEs to address challenges, and delivering a world-class client and employee experience. Key areas of focus include providing financing, capital, and advisory services, with an emphasis on supporting innovative businesses, promoting inclusivity, and aligning with government priorities. The plan also addresses risk management, financial performance, and sustainability.