Ministerial Foreword
Canada has the talent, ideas and industrial strengths to succeed in a rapidly changing global economy. At a time of geopolitical uncertainty, shifting trade relationships and intensifying competition, we must build more of what Canada needs here at home, bring more Canadian ideas to market and create new opportunities for Canadian workers and businesses.
The global innovation clusters are helping advance that mission. Their collaborative model brings together Canadian businesses, researchers, workers and innovators to solve real-world challenges, develop new technologies and strengthen strategic sectors of our economy.
By connecting research with industry and innovative ideas with customers and investment, the clusters help Canadian companies commercialize new products, adopt advanced technologies and compete in markets at home and abroad. They also help ensure that Canada’s intellectual property, talent and economic value translate into lasting benefits for Canadians.
As of March 2026, the clusters had announced more than 680 projects valued at over $3.43 billion, involving 3,538 partners, of which 1,830 are small and medium-sized businesses. For every dollar invested by the federal government, industry and other partners invested an additional $1.66.
This report highlights the results of that collaboration across digital technologies, advanced manufacturing, agri-food, the ocean economy and AI-enabled value chains. It demonstrates how Canadian companies and researchers are developing practical solutions, building skilled workforces, strengthening supply chains and opening new pathways to commercialization and growth.
Protein Industries Canada is bringing together Canadian growers, manufacturers, processors and innovators to strengthen the agri-food value chain and expand the range of Canadian food and ingredient products available to consumers. Over the past year, the cluster and its industry partners have advanced initiatives that respond to supply chain pressures, develop new market opportunities and apply Canadian research and technology to the production of innovative foods and ingredients.
Through its Strengthening the Canadian Supply Chain Program, Protein Industries Canada is helping food manufacturers and processors use more Canadian ingredients, reduce reliance on foreign inputs and add greater value within Canada. Its Asia-Pacific Market Entry Program is helping small and medium-sized businesses enter high-growth markets by providing the partnerships, market knowledge and product support they need to compete and scale internationally.
Canada’s ability to prosper in a more competitive world will depend on our ability to turn Canadian knowledge and ingenuity into Canadian economic strength. Through the global innovation clusters, we are supporting ambitious companies, strengthening strategic capabilities and creating opportunities for Canadians across the country.
Together, we can build a more prosperous, resilient and sovereign economy, on Canadian terms and for generations to come.
