Buy Canadian Business Workbook & Checklist
One of the biggest changes in the Canadian business landscape in 2025 has been the push to buy Canadian. This is a chance not just for businesses to sell themselves to Canadians but also presents the opportunity for businesses to support other Canadian businesses, providing an opportunity for everyone to win.
BUY CANADIAN BUSINESS WORKBOOK & CHECKLIST
Why Canadian Businesses Should Support Canadian Businesses
In today's global marketplace, it's easy to overlook the tremendous impact of keeping business within our borders. When Canadian businesses support other Canadian enterprises, we create a powerful economic ecosystem that benefits everyone.
Economic Impact Statistics
For every $100 spent at a Canadian business, $68 stays in the local economy
Canadian SMBs employ 88.5% of the private sector workforce
B2B transactions between Canadian companies generate an estimated $350 billion annually
Supply chain disruptions affected 85% of Canadian businesses in recent years
ASSESSMENT: How Canadian Is Your Business Supply Chain?
Rate your current situation in each category: 1 = Primarily international suppliers 5 = Primarily Canadian suppliers
Category
1
2
3
4
5
Raw materials
Manufacturing partners
Professional services
Software solutions
Marketing services
Logistics & distribution
Office supplies & equipment
TOTAL SCORE: _____ / 35
Score Interpretation:
28-35: Canadian Champion
20-27: Strong Canadian Support
12-19: Room for Improvement
Under 12: Significant Opportunity
CHECKLIST: Steps to Canadianize Your Supply Chain
Research Phase
[ ] Identify which products/services you currently source internationally
[ ] Create criteria for evaluating Canadian alternatives
[ ] Research Canadian suppliers through directories (Canadian Trade Commissioner Service, Trade Associations)
[ ] Join Canadian business networking groups
Implementation Phase
[ ] Contact potential Canadian suppliers
[ ] Request quotes and samples
[ ] Evaluate based on quality, price, reliability and Canadian content
[ ] Start with pilot projects before full commitment
[ ] Negotiate favourable terms that support long-term relationships
Promotion Phase
[ ] Update your marketing materials to highlight Canadian partnerships
[ ] Share your commitment to Canadian sourcing on your website
[ ] Showcase Canadian supplier relationships in your social media
[ ] Apply for "Made in Canada" or similar certifications when applicable
RESOURCES: Finding Canadian Business Partners
National Resources
Innovation Canada Business Benefits Finder: innovation.ised-isde.canada.ca
Invest in Canada Supply Chain Directory: investcanada.ca
Business Development Bank of Canada: bdc.ca
Trade Commissioner Service: tradecommissioner.gc.ca
Regional Resources
Provincial Chambers of Commerce
Regional economic development agencies
Industry-specific trade associations
Benefits of Partnering with Canadian Businesses
Resilience & Reliability
Reduced supply chain vulnerability
Lower transportation costs and carbon footprint
Easier communication in same/similar time zones
Shared understanding of Canadian business culture and regulations
Financial Advantages
Stable currency transactions
Potential tax benefits
Reduced customs complications
Government procurement advantages for Canadian content
Relationship Benefits
Easier site visits and in-person meetings
Stronger local networks and referrals
Shared commitment to Canadian prosperity
Community goodwill and enhanced brand reputation
How Intero Solutions Can Help
As a proudly Canadian Operations as a Service provider, Intero Solutions specializes in:
Evaluating your current supplier relationships
Identifying Canadian alternatives
Managing the transition to Canadian suppliers
Optimizing your operations for Canadian partnerships
Ensuring compliance with Canadian content requirements
Creating marketing strategies that highlight your Canadian commitment
ACTION PLAN: Your Next Steps
Complete the assessment above
Identify your three lowest-scoring categories
Choose one category to address first
Contact Intero Solutions for a free consultation on how to optimize your Canadian business partnerships
Don't wait - build a stronger, more resilient, and proudly Canadian business today!