Joelle Diwan

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.

The Corporate Plan Summary for Business Development Bank of Canada outlines key objectives and financial strategies from 2021-22 to 2025-26. The plan focuses on supporting Canadian entrepreneurs through financing, capital, and advisory services, with an emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It aims to increase access and reach, drive SME competitiveness, and provide an excellent client experience by using digital technology and data-driven insights. The plan also addresses economic conditions, access to capital, and major trends affecting Canadian SMEs, while ensuring financial sustainability and managing key risks.