Canada’s small businesses employ a staggering 11 million people from coast-to-coast-to-coast, and represent an incredible 98% of Canadian-owned enterprises. Moving to a digital-first economy presents unprecedented opportunities for small businesses across Canada to innovate, expand, and spur new job creation and prosperity. Hear from the Honourable Rechie Valdez (Canada’s Minister of Small Business), Debbie Gamble (Chief Innovation Labs Officer at Interac), and Viet Vu (Author and Manager of Economic Research at the Dias) on how can we catalyze digital adoption, level up digital government, ensure the resilience and growth of small businesses, and ensure that no one is left behind.

This conversation took place on February 28, 2024 at the Canada 2020 Studio, and was hosted in partnership with Interac. It has been lightly edited for length and clarity.