June, 17th, 2020—Canada’s low Debt-to-GDP ratio, stable fiscal and political landscape, and strong academic and talent base sets the stage for a post-COIVD economic recovery that is greener and more resilient. However, bold and strategic policy choices are needed.

A new ICTC white paper, Economic Resiliency in the Face of Adversity: From Surviving to Prospering, explores potential policy levers in support of a green, more inclusive, and digital-based economic recovery in a post-COVID world.

In the months following March 2020, COVID-19 took a devastating human and economic toll on the Canadian and global economy. We now live in a world of high unemployment and nothing short of dire impacts on businesses, especially on small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs).

Many industries are navigating shrinking demand, disrupted supply chains, reduced revenues, and growing debt levels. Several industry verticals also took the full brunt of this pandemic while others found solace in business models that allowed them to be digitally ready and able to adapt to a new online reality.

This paper discusses various policy measures for economic growth and industrial transformation. It also includes discussion of the following:

  • Supporting Digital-Ready Small Businesses
  • Accelerating Digital Adoption
  • Adult and Ongoing Education
  • Balancing Free Trade and National Security
  • Creating Cyber-Resilient Canadian Businesses

“Canada has a privileged standing on the world stage, making it attractive to pursue strong economic growth and expansionary policies post COVID-19. The world of tomorrow is still in the making, and the prospect of shaping Canada’s future has never been greater,” said Namir Anani, ICTC President & CEO.

ICTC is a not-for-profit, national centre of expertise for strengthening Canada’s digital advantage in a global economy. Through trusted research, practical policy advice, and creative capacity-building programs, ICTC fosters globally competitive Canadian industries enabled by innovative and diverse digital talent. In partnership with a vast network of industry leaders, academic partners, and policy makers from across Canada, ICTC has empowered a robust and inclusive digital economy for over 25 years.

For media inquiries or further information about Economic Resiliency in the Face of Adversity: From Surviving to Prospering, please contact Paul Stastny at [email protected] or 403.351.0138 Ext. 823.

A copy of the study can be accessed here.

A French version of this press release is available here.

Event Recap:President and CEO Namir Anani along with ICTC’s research team take a deep dive on this white paper, expanding on topics and providing further insights.

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