CHALLENGE

The global economy has shifted over the last few years, with businesses of all sizes in all sectors integrating digital technologies into their operations. The Canada Digital Adoption Program was established to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in every region of Canada and in all sectors of the economy, including tourism, understand their digital needs and adopt new technology to modernize their operations.

INITIATIVE

The program consists of two types of funding components, both directed at SMEs.

• 1. Grow Your Business Online is designed to help customer-facing businesses digitize and take advantage of e-commerce opportunities. Eligible businesses can receive microgrants of up to CAD 2,400 to help with the costs related to adopting digital technologies, as well as support and advice from a network of e-commerce advisors.
• 2. Boost Your Business Technology helps SMEs that require more comprehensive support to adopt more complex technology. A grant of up to CAD 15,000 enables SMEs to access expert advisory services for digital adoption planning and financing options needed to put these technologies in place. These businesses are eligible to apply for a zero-percent loan through the Business Development Bank of Canada to implement digital technology. They are also eligible for a CAD 7,300 wage subsidy to hire young skilled talent to help with their digital adoption plans.

IMPACT

The program was launched in March 2022 and tens of thousands of businesses, including in tourism, are now on their way to reducing costs, attract new customers, improving their operational efficiency and competitiveness, create new market opportunities and grow their revenue.