Here’s how the City of Toronto is helping businesses grow globally

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Toronto businesses looking to expand into international markets got a crash course in government contracting opportunities at a recent City of Toronto webinar.

On Sept. 22, the City’s Trade and Investment Unit held an online information session featuring Claude Gendron — the director of the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC). He says the CCC helps Canadian companies pursue contracts with international governments by acting as the contractor between Canadian businesses and governments abroad.

For Toronto businesses, this help from the CCC is part of a broader set of trade resources through the City and federal government. The City’s Trade and Investment Unit says the CCC’s service is meant to help Toronto businesses build export readiness, find new markets and connect with international opportunities.

The webinar also pointed businesses toward resources such as the Trade Commissioner Service and Export Development Canada. 

Who can access CCC’s services?

Gendron said CCC can work with businesses in areas such as cybersecurity, clean technology, health, public safety and more. 

He added that the CCC generally wants projects worth $10 million or more, but smaller projects can be considered. So if you’re a Toronto business owner looking to expand to a global network, and your project is worth less, you can still make your case and access these resources. 

The CCC also looks for business owners with about two years of sales experience and will take into account your financial, technical and managerial capacity. 

So, if you’re a Toronto business looking to expand internationally, the City’s Trade and Investment Unit has resources to help you get started.