Canada
Introduction
Canadian Members
Background
Canada is a vast and diverse country known for its natural beauty, multicultural society, and high standard of living. Located in North America, it is the second-largest country in the world by land area, stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean and up to the Arctic Circle. Canada boasts a rich history shaped by Indigenous peoples, French and British colonization, and its evolution into a self-governing nation within the British Commonwealth. The country is renowned for its welcoming immigration policies, thriving economy, and commitment to social welfare programs, such as universal healthcare. Canada is a global leader in industries like natural resources, finance, technology, entertainment, and cultural sectors, with vibrant cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal serving as economic and cultural hubs. Known for its strong democratic values and emphasis on human rights, Canada continues to be a prominent player on the world stage.
Impact on Canada’s Global Position
Canada's embrace of the creative class has helped fuel a growing knowledge-based economy, with a strong emphasis on innovation, technology, and cultural industries. The rise of Visionary entrepreneurs like Tobias Lütke, Chip Wilson, and Heather Reisman has contributed to Canada's entrepreneurial spirit, while thinkers like Geoffrey Hinton have propelled the country to the forefront of AI research and development.
With cultural institutions that support both traditional arts and cutting-edge digital creativity, Canada is poised to continue its role as a global leader in the creative economy, fostering new talent and industries across various sectors. The country’s emphasis on inclusivity, multiculturalism, and creative expression continues to shape its identity as a dynamic and innovative nation.
Canada Cosmology
The cosmology of Canada refers to the underlying perspectives, values, and strategic approaches that shape Canada’s role and influence on the global stage. It encompasses Canada’s unique position as a multicultural, geographically vast, and resource-rich country with deep ties to both the Western world and global multilateral systems. Below are the key components of Canada's geopolitical cosmology
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Strategic Location: Canada is bordered by the Arctic to the north, the Atlantic to the east, and the Pacific to the west, giving it a unique geostrategic position as a link between Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Arctic Sovereignty: With climate change opening Arctic waters, Canada sees the Arctic as a critical area of focus for resource exploration, environmental stewardship, and security against competing claims from Russia, the U.S., and other nations.
Proximity to the U.S.: Sharing the world’s longest undefended border with the U.S., Canada’s geopolitical strategies are deeply intertwined with those of its southern neighbor, from trade agreements to military collaboration.
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Colonial Legacy: Canada’s geopolitical worldview is shaped by its colonial past, balancing the influences of British parliamentary traditions and French civil law and culture.
Multiculturalism as a Policy: Canada’s embrace of multiculturalism is not just domestic but is reflected in its foreign policy as it positions itself as a mediator and advocate for diversity on the global stage.
Indigenous Sovereignty: A growing emphasis on recognizing and integrating Indigenous perspectives influences both domestic governance and international policy, particularly in areas like climate action and resource management.
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Resource Powerhouse: Canada’s economy is built on vast natural resources, including oil, gas, minerals, timber, and fresh water, making resource diplomacy a key component of its geopolitical strategy.
Trade Networks: As a member of major trade agreements like USMCA (with the U.S. and Mexico), CETA (with the EU), and CPTPP (in the Pacific), Canada has positioned itself as a global trade hub.
Technological Leadership: With its focus on innovation in AI, biotechnology, and green energy, Canada seeks to maintain competitiveness in a rapidly shifting global economy.
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Middle Power Diplomacy: Canada identifies as a "middle power," using soft power, mediation, and multilateral institutions to influence global policies.
Membership in Global Institutions: Canada is a prominent member of the United Nations, NATO, the G7, the G20, and the Commonwealth, emphasizing multilateralism and rule-based international order.
Peacekeeping Legacy: Known for its historic role in UN peacekeeping, Canada has framed itself as a champion of global stability, human rights, and humanitarian aid.
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NORAD and NATO: Canada’s defense strategy heavily relies on its partnerships, particularly the NORAD agreement with the U.S. for North American air defense and NATO for collective security.
Cybersecurity and Emerging Threats: As cyberwarfare and hybrid threats grow, Canada is investing in its digital security infrastructure while advocating for global norms around cybersecurity.
Climate Security: Recognizing climate change as a security risk, Canada has focused on renewable energy, Arctic stewardship, and disaster preparedness.
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Cultural Exports: Canadian art, music, film, and literature play a role in projecting Canada’s global image as a progressive and inclusive society.
Immigration as a Strength: Canada’s immigration policies, seen as some of the most welcoming globally, bolster its soft power and economic growth while framing it as a model of tolerance and integration.
Education and Innovation: Canadian universities and research institutions attract international students, contributing to its reputation as a hub for knowledge and innovation.
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Climate Action: With commitments to reducing carbon emissions and advancing green technologies, Canada seeks to lead on global environmental policy, though its reliance on oil sands remains a point of tension.
Biodiversity: As a steward of vast natural ecosystems, including boreal forests and Arctic regions, Canada prioritizes international biodiversity agreements.
Water Diplomacy: Canada’s abundant freshwater resources position it as a leader in water conservation and governance.
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Balancing U.S. Influence: While closely tied to the U.S., Canada aims to diversify its alliances to reduce overdependence, particularly in trade and defense.
Rising Polarization: Domestic polarization around resource development, Indigenous rights, and climate policy can impact Canada’s cohesive global strategy.
China and Global Realignment: Navigating tensions between the U.S. and China while protecting its economic and security interests remains a key challenge.
Arctic Competition: As a key Arctic player, Canada must assert its sovereignty while balancing environmental protection and economic development.
Current Program
Meet the Creative Class
Canada’s creative class is a dynamic and diverse sector that plays a significant role in the country's economic and cultural development. Drawing from Canadian Writer Richard Florida's influential concept of the “Rise of the Creative Class”, Canada's creative industries encompass not only technology and innovation but also arts, design, and cultural institutions that foster creativity. Key figures and institutions from various sectors have contributed to the emergence of Canada as a global leader in innovation and creativity.
Cultural Institutions
Canada’s cultural institutions highlight its rich heritage, diverse society, and commitment to the arts and history. Major national landmarks include the Canadian Museum of History, National Gallery of Canada, and Royal Ontario Museum. In Toronto, the Four Seasons Performing Centre, Art Gallery of Ontario, and Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) are prominent. Montreal features the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Pointe-à-Callière Museum, and Place des Arts, while Vancouver is home to the Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver Art Gallery, and Bard on the Beach festival.
Nationwide, institutions like the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, Canadian Museum for Human Rights, and Stratford Festival showcase Canada’s dedication to Indigenous heritage, human rights, and world-class arts, cementing its global cultural significance.
Financial Institutions
Canada’s financial ecosystem is a dynamic network of major funds, family offices, private equity, investment banking, venture capital, and angel investors, playing a pivotal role in driving economic growth and innovation. Leading financial institutions such as RBC Global Asset Management, TD Asset Management, and Scotiabank’s Dynamic Funds dominate traditional fund management, offering a foundation of stability and growth.
Prominent family offices, including the Thomson family’s Woodbridge Company and the Weston family’s Wittington Investments, manage significant private wealth while contributing to philanthropic and economic ventures. Canada’s globally renowned pension funds and sovereign wealth entities, such as the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB), Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan (OTPP), and Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ), lead in private equity, infrastructure, and sustainable investment strategies.
A robust banking system, regulatory stability, and growing emphasis on impact investing and ESG principles enrich the financial landscape. Private equity giants like Onex Corporation and Brookfield Asset Management excel in real estate, infrastructure, and alternative investments, while investment banks such as BMO Capital Markets, CIBC World Markets, and RBC Capital Markets drive mergers, acquisitions, and financial structuring.
Canada’s vibrant venture capital scene is supported by firms like BDC Capital, Real Ventures, and OMERS Ventures, fostering innovation in technology and startups. Early-stage entrepreneurial growth is fueled by angel investors and networks, such as the National Angel Capital Organization (NACO), blending traditional finance with forward-looking innovation and cementing Canada’s position as a leader in global investment strategies.
Family Offices
Canada's family office and institutional landscape reflects a dynamic blend of private wealth management, financial expertise, and forward-thinking strategies to preserve and grow wealth across generations. Family offices, often established by affluent families, provide bespoke services including investment management, estate planning, tax optimization, philanthropy, and legacy-building.
Prominent family offices in Canada include the Thomson family’s Woodbridge Company, overseeing investments in media and other sectors, and the Weston family’s Wittington Investments, known for retail and real estate holdings. Other notable family offices include those connected to successful entrepreneurs, such as the Irving family, with interests in energy, forestry, and shipping, and the Desmarais family, whose Power Corporation has a diverse portfolio spanning finance, energy, and communications.
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Large-Scale Family Offices
These are family offices managing significant assets, often exceeding billions of dollars, and operating with a global presence:
The Woodbridge Company (Thomson Family)
Industry Focus: Media, technology, real estate, and diversified investments.
Overview: The private investment arm of the Thomson family, owners of Thomson Reuters.
Wittington Investments (Weston Family)
Industry Focus: Retail, food, and real estate.
Overview: Manages the wealth of the Weston family, including interests in Loblaw Companies and Holt Renfrew.
Burgundy Asset Management (Desmarais Family)
Industry Focus: Asset management and investment.
Overview: A family-controlled investment firm linked to the Desmarais family.
Power Corporation of Canada (Desmarais Family)
Industry Focus: Financial services, renewable energy, and media.
Overview: While technically a publicly traded entity, its ties to the Desmarais family's wealth make it akin to a family office.
Mid-Sized Family Offices
These family offices manage significant, though not globally dominant, assets and have a strong domestic presence:
Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management (Multiple Families)
Industry Focus: Investment and wealth management.
Overview: Though not exclusively tied to a single family, it operates in a manner resembling a family office for high-net-worth individuals.
Harrison McCain Family Office (McCain Family)
Industry Focus: Food production and agriculture.
Overview: Focuses on preserving and growing the wealth derived from McCain Foods.
Irving Family Office (Irving Family)
Industry Focus: Forestry, energy, and shipping.
Overview: Supports the wealth and businesses associated with the Irving Group.
Matthews Southwest Family Office (Matthews Family)
Industry Focus: Real estate and construction.
Overview: Manages diverse investments and philanthropic efforts.
Emerging and Niche Family Offices
These are smaller, often more focused, family offices that manage wealth derived from entrepreneurial success:
Chandos Investments (Brandt Family)
Industry Focus: Heavy equipment and manufacturing.
Overview: Manages the wealth derived from Brandt Group of Companies.
Ryan Family Office (Ryan Family)
Industry Focus: Real estate and philanthropy.
Overview: Focuses on real estate investments and community contributions.
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Canadian family offices are focusing on comprehensive planning to facilitate the seamless transfer of wealth to future generations. Strategies include:
Heir Education and Training: Preparing the next generation with financial literacy and leadership skills.
Structured Governance Models: Implementing family constitutions, councils, and trust structures to maintain alignment and avoid disputes.
Philanthropic Engagement: Engaging heirs in philanthropic initiatives to instill shared values and purpose.
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Focus on ESG and Impact Investing: Canadian family offices are increasingly integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into their investment strategies, aligning financial goals with ethical considerations.
Adoption of Technology: Leveraging advanced financial technology and data analytics for more precise portfolio management and risk assessment.
Generational Wealth Transfer: As wealth transitions to younger generations, family offices are prioritizing education and engagement for heirs to ensure continuity and alignment with family values.
Global Collaboration: Partnering with international family offices to access global markets, diversify portfolios, and share best practices.
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To expand opportunities, Canadian family offices are increasingly collaborating with global counterparts. These partnerships allow for:
Co-investments: Joint ventures in real estate, private equity, and other sectors.
Knowledge Sharing: Exchanging insights on governance, succession planning, and emerging markets.
Cross-Border Opportunities: Accessing international deals and leveraging foreign expertise in unfamiliar regions.
Services Providers
Canada offers a sophisticated network of service providers catering to family offices, ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), and entrepreneurs navigating post-liquidity events. Major financial institutions, including RBC Wealth Management, BMO Private Wealth, and CIBC Private Wealth, provide bespoke solutions for wealth management, estate planning, and philanthropy. Boutique advisory firms like KPMG Family Office Services and PwC Canada’s Private Company Services specialize in tax strategy, succession planning, and governance for wealthy families.
Legal and accounting firms, such as McCarthy Tétrault and Blake, Cassels & Graydon, offer expertise in structuring trusts, foundations, and corporate vehicles. Investment consultants, like those from Mercer or Hewitt, assist in optimizing investment strategies for family offices.
Supportive networking clubs and peer organizations, such as TIGER 21 Canada and the Family Enterprise Canada (FEC), provide UHNWIs and entrepreneurs with exclusive forums for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and community-building. These institutions combine expertise with discretion to help clients preserve wealth, manage transitions, and align financial success with long-term goals.
Lifestyle Management
Canada’s affluent lifestyle is defined by a blend of luxury services, exclusive neighborhoods, elite education, private clubs, and distinguished cultural and philanthropic events.
Exclusive Neighborhoods: Prestigious areas such as The Bridle Path in Toronto, Westmount in Montreal, and Shaughnessy in Vancouver are known for their opulent estates, prime locations, and exceptional living standards.
Elite Education: Renowned institutions like Upper Canada College, Bishop Strachan School, Lower Canada College, and St. George’s School offer world-class education, preparing students for global opportunities.
Private Country Clubs: Elite establishments like Toronto’s Granite Club, Rosedale Golf Club, and Vancouver’s Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club provide luxurious recreational facilities and exclusive networking opportunities for high-net-worth individuals.
Cultural and Philanthropic Events: Esteemed events such as the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Montreal’s Bal des Lumières, and Vancouver’s Heart of Gold Gala blend culture and philanthropy, highlighting Canada’s commitment to the arts and community enrichment.
Luxury Services: Firms like Aspire Lifestyles offer bespoke concierge services tailored to the needs of the ultra-wealthy, while luxury retailers such as Holt Renfrew and Harry Rosen provide high-end shopping experiences in premier districts like Bloor-Yorkville and Robson Street.
Together, these elements create an unparalleled lifestyle that combines luxury living, cultural richness, and a strong philanthropic ethos, making Canada an exceptional destination for its wealthiest residents.
Public Companies
Canada is home to a diverse array of public companies across various sectors, ranging from natural resources to technology and finance. Some of the key industries in which Canadian public companies thrive include:
Natural Resources and Energy: Canada’s rich natural resources are reflected in major public companies such as Suncor Energy, Enbridge, and Canadian Natural Resources. These companies are leaders in the oil and gas industry, with operations spanning across the country and internationally.
Mining and Materials: With abundant mineral deposits, companies like Barrick Gold, Teck Resources, and Nutrien dominate the mining and materials sector, providing critical minerals, metals, and agricultural products globally.
Financial Services: Canada’s strong financial sector is led by the "Big Five" banks: Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD), Bank of Nova Scotia (Scotiabank), Bank of Montreal (BMO), and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC). These institutions are major players not only in Canada but across North America and globally.
Telecommunications: Major telecom players like Rogers Communications, Telus, and BCE (Bell Canada) dominate Canada’s communications industry, providing mobile, broadband, and television services.
Technology: Canada's technology sector has seen significant growth, with companies like Shopify, Constellation Software, Celestica, Descartes Systems Group, CGI Group and Open Text making notable impacts in e-commerce, software development, and IT services.
Consumer Goods and Retail: Canadian retailers like Loblaw Companies and George Weston Ltd. are prominent in the consumer goods market, with operations in food, retail, and real estate.
Pharmaceuticals and Health Care: Companies such as Valeant Pharmaceuticals (now Bausch Health) and Shoppers Drug Mart are key players in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.
Overall, Canada’s public companies are well-represented in global markets, with leadership in energy, mining, banking, telecommunications, technology, and healthcare. These companies play a vital role in both the Canadian economy and the global marketplace.
Notable Canadian founders and executives have made substantial contributions on the global stage, including Joseph Tsai, co-founder of Alibaba, Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, and David Cheriton, an early investor in Google. These influential figures, along with Canadian-founded companies such as Shopify, showcase Canada's remarkable impact on technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation across global industries. Their leadership continues to shape sectors like e-commerce, electric vehicles, space exploration, and venture capital, solidifying Canada's reputation as a hub for pioneering business talent and transformative ideas.
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George Weston Limited – Publicly listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSE: WN). It is involved in food retailing through Loblaw Companies and real estate.
Magna International – Publicly listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSE: MG). A global automotive supplier.
SNC-Lavalin – Publicly listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSE: SNC). An engineering and construction company.
Power Corporation of Canada – Publicly listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSE: POW). A diversified management and holding company.
Bombardier – Publicly listed in the past but has undergone restructuring, selling off portions of its business. It is listed on the TSE (TSE: BBD) with parts of its operations still publicly traded.
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Notable Canadian founders and executives have made substantial contributions on the global stage, including Joseph Tsai, co-founder of Alibaba, Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, and David Cheriton, an early investor in Google. These influential figures, along with Canadian-founded companies such as Shopify, showcase Canada's remarkable impact on technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation across global industries. Their leadership continues to shape sectors like e-commerce, electric vehicles, space exploration, and venture capital, solidifying Canada's reputation as a hub for pioneering business talent and transformative ideas.
Large Private Companies
Canada is home to several large private companies generating $100 million revenue and more, and non-publicly listed companies that are key players in various industries, ranging from retail and manufacturing to energy and telecommunications. These companies often remain privately held but still employ thousands of Canadians and have a significant economic impact. Some of Canada's largest non-publicly listed companies, along with their approximate employee counts, include:
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McCain Foods Limited
Industry: Food Manufacturing
Headquarters: Florenceville-Bristol, New Brunswick
Revenue: Estimated over $8 billion
Employees: ~22,000 globally
Overview: Founded by the McCain family in 1957, McCain Foods is the world’s largest producer of frozen French fries and other potato products. It operates in over 160 countries.
Jim Pattison Group
Industry: Conglomerate (Retail, Media, Automotive, and More)
Headquarters: Vancouver, British Columbia
Revenue: Estimated over $14 billion
Employees: ~51,000 globally
Overview: Founded by Jim Pattison, the group spans a variety of sectors, including supermarkets (Save-On-Foods), automotive dealerships, and media. It is one of Canada’s largest privately held companies.
Irving Oil
Industry: Energy
Headquarters: Saint John, New Brunswick
Revenue: Estimated over $10 billion
Employees: ~4,000
Overview: Owned by the Irving family, Irving Oil operates Canada’s largest oil refinery and has extensive operations in fuel distribution and marketing across Eastern Canada and New England.
Oxford Properties Group
Industry: Real Estate and Property Development
Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario
Revenue: Estimated at $4 billion+
Employees: ~2,200
Overview: Originally part of the OMERS pension fund, Oxford Properties manages and develops high-value real estate projects across Canada and globally, including commercial, residential, and retail spaces.
Canfor Corporation
Industry: Forestry and Wood Products
Headquarters: Vancouver, British Columbia
Revenue: Estimated over $7 billion
Employees: ~6,500
Overview: Owned primarily by the Jim Pattison Group, Canfor is a major producer of lumber, pulp, and paper products, serving global markets.
Cascades Inc.
Industry: Paper and Packaging
Headquarters: Kingsey Falls, Quebec
Revenue: Estimated over $4 billion
Employees: ~11,000
Overview: A family-owned business, Cascades specializes in producing sustainable packaging and tissue products using recycled materials.
Maple Lodge Farms
Industry: Food Processing
Headquarters: Brampton, Ontario
Revenue: Estimated over $2 billion
Employees: ~3,000
Overview: Canada’s largest independent chicken processor, Maple Lodge Farms remains a family-run operation with a strong presence in the Canadian market.
PCL Construction
Industry: Construction
Headquarters: Edmonton, Alberta
Revenue: Estimated over $9 billion
Employees: ~4,000
Overview: PCL Construction, owned by its employees, is one of the largest construction companies in North America, undertaking major infrastructure and commercial projects.
Desjardins Group
Industry: Financial Services
Headquarters: Lévis, Quebec
Revenue: Estimated over $18 billion
Employees: ~53,000
Overview: A cooperative financial group, Desjardins is the largest federation of credit unions in North America, offering banking, insurance, and investment services.
Kiewit Canada
Industry: Construction and Engineering
Headquarters: Calgary, Alberta
Revenue: Estimated over $5 billion
Employees: ~2,000
Overview: A division of Kiewit Corporation, Kiewit Canada focuses on heavy construction projects such as pipelines, power plants, and infrastructure.
Characteristics of Large Private Companies in Canada
Revenue and Scale: These companies have annual revenues in the billions, distinguishing them from SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises, defined as having fewer than 500 employees or revenues under $50 million).
Ownership: Many are family-owned, employee-owned, or operate under cooperative models.
Economic Contribution: These companies play a vital role in employment, innovation, and Canada’s GDP.
Future Trends and Opportunities
Increased focus on sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles.
Expansion into global markets, particularly in technology and food processing.
Emphasis on digital transformation and automation to remain competitive.
These companies underscore the strength and diversity of Canada’s private sector, contributing significantly to the economy while maintaining independence from public market pressures.
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Increased focus on sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles.
Expansion into global markets, particularly in technology and food processing.
Emphasis on digital transformation and automation to remain competitive.
These companies underscore the strength and diversity of Canada’s private sector, contributing significantly to the economy while maintaining independence from public market pressures.
Private SME
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a pivotal role in Canada's economy, defined as businesses with fewer than 500 employees. SMEs account for 99.8% of all businesses in Canada and contribute approximately 40% of the country's GDP. These enterprises span a wide range of sectors, from technology and retail to manufacturing and services, and are crucial drivers of employment, innovation, and economic growth.
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FreshBooks (Toronto, Ontario)
Industry: Technology (Accounting software)
Revenue: Estimated over $100 million
Founder(s): Mike McDerment, Joe Sawada
FreshBooks revolutionized accounting for small business owners and freelancers with its cloud-based software. Known for its user-friendly platform, FreshBooks is a global leader in online accounting tools.Neptec Design Group (Ottawa, Ontario)
Industry: Robotics and Automation
Revenue: Estimated at $50 million+
Founder(s): Sandy Pentland, Paul A. Gauthier
Neptec Design Group is a pioneer in robotics and automation, with key contributions to aerospace and energy industries. The company is recognized for its cutting-edge technology and engineering expertise.Magenta Mobility (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Industry: Transportation (Electric vehicle sharing)
Revenue: Estimated $20 million+
Founder(s): Lynne Hefferman
Magenta Mobility promotes sustainable transportation through its electric vehicle sharing services in Vancouver. The company is dedicated to reducing carbon emissions and fostering eco-friendly urban mobility.Canadian Outdoor Equipment Co. (Alberta)
Industry: Retail (Outdoor gear)
Revenue: Estimated $20 million+
Founder(s): Benedict Black
Specializing in premium outdoor gear, Canadian Outdoor Equipment Co. serves enthusiasts across Canada with high-quality products and exceptional service, catering to adventurers of all kinds.EcoCure (Ontario)
Industry: Environmental Services (Sustainable building materials)
Revenue: Estimated at $10 million+
Founder(s): Franklin O’Neill
EcoCure is committed to reducing the environmental footprint of construction by offering sustainable building materials. Its innovative solutions are paving the way for greener construction practices in Canada.Mental Health Innovation (Toronto, Ontario)
Industry: Healthcare (Mental health services)
Revenue: Estimated at $15 million+
Founder(s): Dr. David H. Goldbloom
This company leverages telemedicine and online therapy to provide accessible mental health solutions. Founded by Dr. Goldbloom, it’s addressing a critical need in Canada’s healthcare system.Baffinland Iron Mines (Toronto, Ontario)
Industry: Mining (Iron Ore)
Revenue: Estimated at $500 million+
Founder(s): Robert J. Chausse
Specializing in iron ore extraction in Canada’s Arctic, Baffinland Iron Mines plays a vital role in the nation’s mining sector, balancing large-scale production with environmental considerations.These companies are some of the largest privately held SMEs in Canada, each demonstrating significant contributions to the national economy and across various sectors such as technology, food services, transportation, retail, and healthcare. The founders of these companies have had a profound impact on Canadian industries, showing the dynamism and entrepreneurial spirit within the SME sector in Canada. With their innovation, leadership, and commitment to excellence, these businesses continue to shape Canada's economic landscape.
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Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are poised to benefit from evolving trends and opportunities in a dynamic business environment. Key areas of growth and innovation include:
1. Digital Transformation
Trend: Accelerated adoption of technology, driven by the rise of e-commerce, digital payments, and cloud-based solutions.
Opportunity: SMEs can leverage digital tools to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and expand their market reach globally. Government initiatives such as Canada’s Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) support this transformation.
2. Sustainability and Green Innovation
Trend: Increasing consumer and regulatory emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.
Opportunity: SMEs can innovate in clean energy, sustainable products, and eco-friendly practices, tapping into government incentives and growing demand for green solutions.
3. Access to Global Markets
Trend: International trade agreements like CUSMA and CPTPP provide Canadian SMEs access to vast markets.
Opportunity: SMEs can export goods and services to diverse regions, particularly in technology, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors.
4. Focus on Health and Wellness
Trend: Growing consumer demand for health-conscious products and services.
Opportunity: SMEs in food, fitness, and mental health services can capitalize on this trend by offering innovative and personalized solutions.
5. Agri-Tech and Food Innovation
Trend: Advancements in agricultural technology to address global food security and sustainability challenges.
Opportunity: Canadian SMEs can lead in areas like vertical farming, plant-based foods, and precision agriculture, supported by Canada’s strong agri-tech ecosystem.
6. Talent Development and Remote Work
Trend: Increased focus on workforce flexibility and reskilling due to changing job markets.
Opportunity: SMEs can attract top talent by offering hybrid work models and fostering a culture of innovation and learning.
7. Financial Technology and Alternative Financing
Trend: Growth in fintech solutions providing SMEs with easier access to capital.
Opportunity: SMEs can utilize platforms for alternative lending, crowdfunding, and blockchain to secure funding for growth.
8. Supportive Ecosystems and Government Programs
Trend: Expanding support through grants, loans, and tax credits aimed at fostering SME growth.
Opportunity: SMEs can benefit from initiatives like the Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP) and regional development agencies tailored to their specific needs.
9. Collaboration and Community Building
Trend: Partnerships among SMEs, large corporations, and research institutions to drive innovation.
Opportunity: Leveraging networks and accelerators can help SMEs scale operations and integrate into larger supply chains.
By embracing these trends, Canadian SMEs can secure a competitive edge, foster resilience, and play a vital role in shaping the country's economic future.
Start Ups & Innovation
Canada's startup ecosystem is thriving, with a growing number of innovative companies emerging in tech, finance, health, and other industries. The ecosystem is supported by a range of factors, including a strong talent pool, access to funding, and robust government programs aimed at fostering entrepreneurship.
Top Startups and Founders:
Canada is home to some notable startups that have achieved success on both national and global stages. Some prominent startups include:
Shopify (Ottawa) – A leading e-commerce platform, founded by Tobias Lütke, Daniel Weinand, and Scott Lake.
Wealthsimple (Toronto) – A fintech company providing investment management, founded by Michael Katchen.
Drop (Toronto) – A personalized rewards program app, founded by David Baga and David Prashad.
Hootsuite (Vancouver) – A social media management platform, founded by Ryan Holmes.
These startups have seen tremendous growth and have helped put Canada on the global startup map.
Investment Environment and Infrastructure:
Canada's investment environment is supportive but still evolving. A wide range of funding options exists, from angel investors and venture capitalists to government-backed programs such as the Canada Business Network and the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP). However, Canada’s venture capital industry remains relatively small compared to other global markets, both as a percentage of GDP and on a per capita basis. Although it has experienced steady growth in recent years, it continues to lag behind major players such as the United States, particularly regions like Silicon Valley, which dominate later-stage funding. Likewise, countries like Israel and European leaders such as the UK and Germany boast more developed ecosystems in specific sectors, often surpassing Canada in terms of funding availability and venture activity density. These limitations pose challenges for Canadian startups, especially when scaling internationally, as they frequently need to look beyond domestic borders to secure the capital required to compete on a global stage.
Key accelerators, incubators, and co-working spaces, like MaRS Discovery District (Toronto), District 3 (Montreal), and Vancouver's Launch Academy, provide critical infrastructure to help founders scale from idea to product launch. These hubs offer networking opportunities, mentorship, and resources to help early-stage entrepreneurs succeed.
Challenges:
Despite these advantages, Canadian entrepreneurs often face challenges in scaling and accessing growth capital. One major factor that drives Canadian founders to seek opportunities elsewhere, particularly in Silicon Valley, is the larger capital pool and the more established startup ecosystem in the U.S. Silicon Valley offers unparalleled access to venture capital, networking, and exposure to potential global customers, making it an attractive destination for ambitious founders. Furthermore, Canada's smaller market size and fewer tech IPOs or exits can lead entrepreneurs to seek larger, more dynamic markets.
Improving the Canadian Ecosystem:
To retain top talent and encourage more entrepreneurs to stay, Canada could take several steps:
Increasing Access to Late-Stage Funding: More venture capital firms and investors should be encouraged to support Canadian companies in their scaling stages, helping them expand internationally.
Government Incentives: The Canadian government could introduce more attractive tax incentives for startups and investors, similar to those offered in Silicon Valley, to foster growth and innovation.
Global Exposure: Programs that connect Canadian startups with global markets and customers could also improve the ability to scale quickly.
Building a Robust Exit Market: Creating a more active IPO market and offering additional liquidity opportunities would make Canada a more attractive place for entrepreneurs to stay and grow their companies.
Canada has the talent, resources, and infrastructure to support its startup ecosystem, but addressing these gaps can help retain more entrepreneurs and ensure that the Canadian startup landscape becomes a key global hub for innovation.
Local Businesses & Lifestyle Influencers
Canada’s entrepreneurial landscape is rich with innovation and creativity, spanning industries such as technology, fashion, wellness, and lifestyle. Local entrepreneurs have established globally recognized brands, while social media influencers have leveraged platforms like Instagram to build vibrant communities and inspire trends.
Notable Entrepreneurs and Businesses:
Joey and Jeff Stober (Vancouver, British Columbia): Founders of the JOEY Restaurant Group, which has grown into a premium casual dining empire with locations across North America.
Michele Romanow (Toronto, Ontario): Co-founder of Clearco, a fintech startup offering revenue-based financing for small businesses, and a celebrated entrepreneur featured on Dragon’s Den.
Brunello Del Bello and Louie Santaguida (Hamilton, Ontario): Founders of Green Earth Power Solutions, specializing in renewable energy solutions and sustainable urban development.
Devon Brooks (Vancouver, British Columbia): Founder of Blo Blow Dry Bar, the world’s first blow-dry bar franchise, and a leader in the beauty and wellness sector.
Aurora James (Toronto, Ontario): Founder of Brother Vellies, a luxury footwear brand focused on sustainable, artisan-made designs with global acclaim.
Instagram Influencers:
Danielle Peazer (@daniellepeazer): A fitness and lifestyle influencer inspiring Canadians with workout tips, wellness trends, and motivational content.
Jillian Harris (@jillian.harris): A lifestyle expert and designer with a focus on home décor, fashion, and family life, based in British Columbia.
Matthew Santoro (@matthewsantoro): A content creator and educator sharing quirky facts and knowledge with his audience.
Nitsan Raiter (@nitsanraiter): A Toronto-based fashion and beauty influencer offering modern, relatable content to a growing audience.
Jayde Archbold (@jayde_archbold): Known for her wellness-focused Instagram, Jayde highlights the best in fitness, healthy living, and self-care.
The Role of Local Entrepreneurs and Influencers:
Entrepreneurs and influencers in Canada are not just industry leaders but also cultural contributors. They create jobs, set trends, and showcase Canadian values of inclusivity and innovation. Their impact extends globally, demonstrating Canada’s ability to produce world-class talent and ideas.
From tech innovators to creative influencers, Canada’s local businesses and digital personalities are shaping the nation’s identity and contributing significantly to its economy and culture.
Communities & Talent
Canada stands out globally for its commitment to cultivating talent and creating environments where families can thrive. The country’s emphasis on inclusivity, education, and a high quality of life forms the foundation for its success in these areas.
Education and Opportunities for Growth:
Canada is home to world-renowned educational institutions, such as the University of Toronto and McGill University, which attract students from across the globe. Its robust public education system emphasizes critical thinking, innovation, and inclusivity, ensuring a well-rounded foundation for future leaders. Post-secondary institutions work closely with industries to foster research and entrepreneurship, supported by government grants and programs like Mitacs.
Multiculturalism and Inclusivity:
As one of the most multicultural nations, Canada welcomes diverse perspectives, fostering innovation and creativity. This inclusivity extends to its immigration policies, which attract skilled professionals and entrepreneurs, creating a dynamic workforce and vibrant communities.
Family-Oriented Policies and Lifestyle:
Canada provides a supportive environment for families through generous parental leave policies, subsidized childcare programs, and universal healthcare. Cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal are consistently ranked among the most livable in the world, offering safe neighborhoods, access to nature, and family-friendly activities.
Government Support for Talent Development:
Programs like the Canada Child Benefit and education savings plans help families invest in the next generation. Meanwhile, initiatives such as the Startup Visa Program and innovation hubs across the country nurture entrepreneurial talent and create opportunities for new businesses to thrive.
Work-Life Balance and Natural Beauty:
Canada’s emphasis on work-life balance, combined with its stunning natural landscapes, encourages physical and mental well-being. Families enjoy access to world-class parks, outdoor activities, and cultural events that enrich their lives.
Global Recognition:
The country has produced influential leaders in technology, arts, and business, such as Elon Musk, Joseph Tsai, and Margaret Atwood, showcasing the impact of Canada’s nurturing environment on global talent.
Canada’s unique combination of cultural openness, exceptional quality of life, and strong social infrastructure creates a powerful ecosystem for cultivating talent and nurturing families, making it a model for other nations.
Canadian Jobs and Top Employers for Canadian Families
Canada's job market is diverse, offering opportunities across various industries, from technology and healthcare to natural resources and manufacturing. Top employers in Canada provide stability, growth, and work-life balance, making the country an attractive destination for families seeking long-term career prospects and a high quality of life.
Major Industries and Job Opportunities:
Canada’s top industries include technology, healthcare, education, natural resources, financial services, and manufacturing. There is strong demand for skilled workers in fields like software development, healthcare services, engineering, teaching, and renewable energy. These sectors not only offer competitive salaries but also provide employees with opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
Top Employers:
Some of Canada’s most prominent employers that support families with stable jobs, benefits, and advancement opportunities include:
Royal Bank of Canada (RBC): A leader in the financial sector, RBC offers diverse roles in banking, finance, technology, and management across Canada.
Manulife Financial: A global player in financial services, offering a range of positions in insurance, finance, and technology.
Suncor Energy: A major energy company in Canada, providing jobs in engineering, environmental science, and skilled trades.
Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan (OTPP): Known for investment management and offering roles in finance, administration, and actuarial science.
Canadian National Railway (CNR): A major player in transportation, providing a wide range of opportunities in logistics, operations, and management.
Health Canada & Provincial Health Services: With healthcare being a vital sector, Health Canada and provincial health employers provide jobs for nurses, doctors, and administrative staff, ensuring critical services for families.
Work-Life Balance and Family Support:
Canada's workplace culture places a high emphasis on work-life balance, with generous parental leave, vacation time, and healthcare benefits. The family-friendly policies in most companies help employees balance their professional and personal lives, creating a supportive environment for raising children and pursuing personal goals.
Economic Growth and Job Security:
The Canadian economy has shown resilience, with steady growth across industries and a low unemployment rate. Programs to promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and skilled labor help bolster job security and create pathways for upward mobility, benefiting families in the long term.
Overall, Canada’s job market is dynamic, offering diverse and well-paying opportunities for families across the country. Top employers are dedicated to creating supportive and flexible work environments, helping Canadian families achieve a sustainable work-life balance while contributing to the country's growing economy.
Cultivating Canadians & Nurturing Families
Canada provides an exceptional environment for nurturing families, from birth through education and into adulthood, offering opportunities for growth, security, and meaningful contributions to society.
Support from Birth:
Families in Canada benefit from generous parental leave policies, universal healthcare, and programs like the Canada Child Benefit, which provide financial support for raising children. Access to high-quality prenatal and pediatric care ensures that children start life with a solid foundation.
World-Class Education:
Canada’s public education system is consistently ranked among the best globally, emphasizing inclusivity, critical thinking, and preparation for the future. Families can also choose from elite private schools and specialized programs tailored to diverse interests and abilities. Postsecondary institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia are globally renowned, providing opportunities for higher education and innovation.
Exceptional Quality of Life:
Canada is recognized for its safety, clean environment, and family-friendly cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa. The country’s universal healthcare system, access to green spaces, and cultural amenities enhance the overall well-being of families.
Job Opportunities and Upward Mobility:
A stable economy and strong labor market offer a wealth of job opportunities in industries such as technology, healthcare, finance, and natural resources. Programs like the Canada Training Benefit help families enhance their skills, ensuring upward mobility and economic security.
Support for Entrepreneurship:
Canada fosters entrepreneurial spirit through initiatives such as the Startup Visa Program, innovation hubs, and access to funding. Families are encouraged to build businesses and create generational wealth while contributing to their communities.
Inclusivity and Diversity:
As a multicultural nation, Canada welcomes families from all backgrounds, creating a vibrant society enriched by diverse perspectives. This inclusivity is reflected in policies and programs that ensure equitable opportunities for all.
Contributions to Society:
Canada encourages civic engagement and community involvement through volunteer opportunities, charitable initiatives, and cultural events. Families are empowered to make meaningful contributions to their neighborhoods and the broader society.
In essence, Canada’s combination of strong social infrastructure, economic opportunities, and commitment to diversity makes it a unique and nurturing environment for families to thrive and leave a lasting impact on society.
Canada’s Heritage and Role in the World
Canada, with its rich heritage and forward-looking vision, serves as a model for navigating a new era of global challenges and opportunities. As one of the youngest countries among major global players, Canada’s evolution reflects its unique ability to balance tradition with innovation, unity with diversity, and national interests with global responsibilities.
Generational Public Inheritance:
Canada’s generational public inheritance includes universal healthcare, robust public education, and a natural wealth of resources managed through sustainable practices. Institutions like the Canada Pension Plan and programs that protect the environment, support Indigenous communities, and promote multiculturalism represent legacies designed to benefit all Canadians across generations. This shared foundation fosters equality, opportunity, and resilience, ensuring future prosperity.
A Legacy of Diversity and Inclusivity:
Canada’s embrace of immigration and multiculturalism has created a society where people from around the world coexist and contribute. This cultural mosaic is a cornerstone of its heritage, enabling the country to adapt and thrive in a changing geopolitical environment.
Stewardship of Natural Resources:
As a country rich in natural resources, Canada has played a crucial role in promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. Balancing economic growth with environmental protection is a key component of its national identity and global contribution.
Navigating Geopolitical Change:
Canada’s status as a middle power allows it to bridge divides and foster collaboration on the global stage. Its leadership in areas like climate action, peacekeeping, and human rights showcases its commitment to addressing shared global challenges. As geopolitical landscapes shift, Canada continues to advocate for multilateralism and inclusive economic growth.
Vision for a New Era:
In a time of technological advancement, climate urgency, and social change, Canada’s youthful identity provides an opportunity to lead with innovation and adaptability. Its investments in clean technology, research, and global partnerships position it as a forward-thinking nation ready to navigate the complexities of the 21st century.
In sum, Canada’s heritage is both a gift and a responsibility. With its generational public inheritance, diverse society, and role as a diplomatic and economic bridge, Canada stands poised to chart a course through the new era as a global leader and an example of inclusivity, sustainability, and progress.
Canada is a vast and resource-rich nation in northern North America, bordered by the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic Oceans. It features diverse geography, including plains, mountains, and vast freshwater systems, while its climate varies from temperate in the south to Arctic in the north. The population is concentrated near the U.S. border, with English and French as official languages, reflecting its multicultural society.
Canada's top exports include natural resources such as crude oil, minerals, timber, and precious metals, as well as manufactured goods like automobiles, machinery, and aerospace products. Canada exports a range of unique products including maple syrup, ice wine, canola oil, lobster, bison meat, timber, truffles, palladium, hemp products, and caviar, showcasing its diverse natural resources and innovative industries.
Environmentally, Canada faces challenges like pollution, deforestation, and climate change but leads in freshwater reserves and biodiversity. Politically, it is a stable parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy, with a focus on human rights and social welfare. Economically, it relies on natural resources, manufacturing, and technology sectors, complemented by robust energy production.
Canada maintains advanced communication and transportation infrastructure, a well-equipped military focused on defense and international peacekeeping, and active participation in space exploration. While relatively secure, it addresses terrorism and transnational issues like Arctic sovereignty and global trade dynamics. This positions Canada as a key global player with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation.
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Northern North America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean on the east, North Pacific Ocean on the west, and the Arctic Ocean on the north, north of the conterminous US
60 00 N, 95 00 W
North America
total : 9,984,670 sq km
land: 9,093,507 sq km
water: 891,163 sq kmcomparison ranking: total 3
slightly larger than the US
Area comparison map:
total: 8,892 km
border countries: US 8,891 km (includes 2,475 km with Alaska); Denmark (Greenland) 1.3 km
202,080 km
note: the Canadian Arctic Archipelago - consisting of 36,563 islands, several of them some of the world's largest - contributes to Canada easily having the longest coastline in the worldterritorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental marginvaries from temperate in south to subarctic and arctic in north
mostly plains with mountains in west, lowlands in southeast
highest point: Mount Logan 5,959 m
lowest point: Atlantic/Pacific/Arctic Oceans 0 m
mean elevation: 487 mbauxite, iron ore, nickel, zinc, copper, gold, lead, uranium, rare earth elements, molybdenum, potash, diamonds, silver, fish, timber, wildlife, coal, petroleum, natural gas, hydropower
agricultural land: 6.8% (2018 est.)
arable land: 4.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.5% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 1.6% (2018 est.)
forest: 34.1% (2018 est.)
other: 59.1% (2018 est.)9,045 sq km (2015)
fresh water lake(s): Huron* - 35,972 sq km; Great Bear Lake - 31,328 sq km; Superior* - 28,754 sq km; Great Slave Lake - 28,568 sq km; Lake Winnipeg - 24,387 sq km; Erie* - 12,776 sq km; Ontario* - 9,790 sq km; Lake Athabasca - 7,935 sq km; Reindeer Lake - 6,650 sq km; Nettilling Lake - 5,542 sq km
note - Great Lakes* area shown as Canadian watersMajor rivers (by length in km)
Mackenzie - 4, 241 km; Yukon river source (shared with the US [m]) - 3,185 km; Saint Lawrence river mouth (shared with US) - 3,058 km; Nelson - 2,570 km; Columbia river source (shared with the US [m]) - 1,953 km; Churchill - 1,600 km; Fraser - 1,368 km; Ottawa - 1,271 km; Athabasca - 1,231 km; North Saskatchewan - 1,220 km; Liard - 1,115 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouthAtlantic Ocean drainage: Mississippi* (Gulf of Mexico) (3,202,185 sq km, Canada only 32,000 sq km), Nelson (Hudson Bay) (1,093,141 sq km), Saint Lawrence* (1,049,636 sq km, Canada only 839,200 sq km)
Arctic Ocean drainage: Mackenzie (1,706,388 sq km)
Pacific Ocean drainage: Yukon* (847,620 sq km, Canada only 823,800 sq km), Columbia* (657,501 sq km, Canada only 103,000 sq km)
note - watersheds shared with the US shown with *Northern Great Plains Aquifer
vast majority of Canadians are positioned in a discontinuous band within approximately 300 km of the southern border with the United States; the most populated province is Ontario, followed by Quebec and British Columbia
continuous permafrost in north is a serious obstacle to development; cyclonic storms form east of the Rocky Mountains, a result of the mixing of air masses from the Arctic, Pacific, and North American interior, and produce most of the country's rain and snow east of the mountains
volcanism: the vast majority of volcanoes in Western Canada's Coast Mountains remain dormant
note 1: second-largest country in world (after Russia) and largest in the Americas; strategic location between Russia and US via north polar route; approximately 90% of the population is concentrated within 160 km (100 mi) of the US border
note 2: Canada has more fresh water than any other country and almost 9% of Canadian territory is water; Canada has at least 2 million and possibly over 3 million lakes -- that is more than all other countries combined -
total: 38,794,813
male: 19,234,729
female: 19,560,084 (2024 est.)comparison rankings: female 38; male 38; total 37
noun: Canadian(s)
adjective: CanadianCanadian 15.6%, English 14.7%, Scottish 12.1%, French 11%, Irish 12.1%, German 8.1%, Chinese 4.7%, Italian 4.3%, First Nations 1.7%, Indian 3.7%, Ukrainian 3.5%, Metis 1.5% (2021 est.)
note: percentages add up to more than 100% because respondents were able to identify more than one ethnic originEnglish (official) 87.1%, French (official) 29.1%, Chinese languages 4.2%, Spanish 3.2%, Punjabi 2.6%, Arabic 2.4%, Tagalog 2.3%, Italian 1.5% (2022 est.)
major-language sample(s):
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information. (English)
The World Factbook, une source indispensable d'informations de base. (French)French audio sample:
Christian 53.3%, Muslim 4.9%, Hindu 2.3%, Sikh 2.1%, Buddhist 1%, Jewish 0.9%, Traditional (North American Indigenous) 0.2%, other religions and traditional spirituality 0.6%, none 34.6% (2021 est.)
0-14 years: 15.5% (male 3,098,478/female 2,929,148)
15-64 years: 63.4% (male 12,382,422/female 12,227,512)
65 years and over: 21% (2024 est.) (male 3,753,829/female 4,403,424)2023 population pyramid:
total dependency ratio: 52.1
youth dependency ratio: 23.9
elderly dependency ratio: 28.2
potential support ratio: 3.6 (2021 est.)total: 42.6 years (2024 est.)
male: 41.4 years
female: 43.8 yearscomparison ranking: total 40
0.71% (2024 est.)
comparison ranking: 125
10 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
comparison ranking: 186
8.2 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
comparison ranking: 82
5.3 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2024 est.)
comparison ranking: 19
vast majority of Canadians are positioned in a discontinuous band within approximately 300 km of the southern border with the United States; the most populated province is Ontario, followed by Quebec and British Columbia
urban population: 81.9% of total population (2023)
rate of urbanization: 0.95% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)total population growth rate v. urban population growth rate, 2000-2030
Major urban areas - population
6.372 million Toronto, 4.308 million Montreal, 2.657 million Vancouver, 1.640 million Calgary, 1.544 million Edmonton, 1.437 million OTTAWA (capital) (2023)
at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.85 male(s)/female
total population: 0.98 male(s)/female (2024 est.)Mother's mean age at first birth
29.4 years (2019 est.)
11 deaths/100,000 live births (2020 est.)
comparison ranking: 142
total: 4.3 deaths/1,000 live births (2024 est.)
male: 4.5 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 4 deaths/1,000 live birthscomparison ranking: total 185
total population: 84.2 years (2024 est.)
male: 81.9 years
female: 86.6 yearscomparison ranking: total population 5
1.58 children born/woman (2024 est.)
comparison ranking: 189
0.77 (2024 est.)
NA
improved: urban: 99.3% of population
rural: 99.1% of population
total: 99.2% of population
unimproved: urban: 0.7% of population
rural: 0.9% of population
total: 0.8% of population (2020 est.)12.9% of GDP (2020)
2.44 physicians/1,000 population (2019)
2.5 beds/1,000 population (2019)
improved: urban: 99.1% of population
rural: 98.9% of population
total: 99% of population
unimproved: urban: 0.9% of population
rural: 1.1% of population
total: 1% of population (2020 est.)Obesity - adult prevalence rate
29.4% (2016)
comparison ranking: 26
Alcohol consumption per capita
total: 8 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
beer: 3.5 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 2 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 2.1 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0.4 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)comparison ranking: total 44
total: 13% (2020 est.)
male: 15.3% (2020 est.)
female: 10.7% (2020 est.)comparison ranking: total 117
Children under the age of 5 years underweight
NA
Currently married women (ages 15-49)
52.2% (2023 est.)
5.2% of GDP (2020 est.)
comparison ranking: 70
total population: NA
male: NA
female: NASchool life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 17 years
male: 16 years
female: 17 years (2020) -
metal smelting, coal-burning utilities, and vehicle emissions impacting agricultural and forest productivity; air pollution and resulting acid rain severely affecting lakes and damaging forests; ocean waters becoming contaminated due to agricultural, industrial, mining, and forestry activities
Environment - international agreements
party to: Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Heavy Metals, Air Pollution-Multi-effect Protocol, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Persistent Organic Pollutants, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protection, Antarctic-Marine Living Resources, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
signed, but not ratified: Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Marine Life Conservationvaries from temperate in south to subarctic and arctic in north
agricultural land: 6.8% (2018 est.)
arable land: 4.7% (2018 est.)
permanent crops: 0.5% (2018 est.)
permanent pasture: 1.6% (2018 est.)
forest: 34.1% (2018 est.)
other: 59.1% (2018 est.)urban population: 81.9% of total population (2023)
rate of urbanization: 0.95% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)total population growth rate v. urban population growth rate, 2000-2030
0.08% of GDP (2018 est.)
comparison ranking: 119
0.08% of GDP (2018 est.)
comparison ranking: 27
particulate matter emissions: 6.39 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
carbon dioxide emissions: 544.89 megatons (2016 est.)
methane emissions: 101.82 megatons (2020 est.)municipal solid waste generated annually: 25,103,034 tons (2014 est.)
municipal solid waste recycled annually: 5,168,715 tons (2008 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 20.6% (2008 est.)fresh water lake(s): Huron* - 35,972 sq km; Great Bear Lake - 31,328 sq km; Superior* - 28,754 sq km; Great Slave Lake - 28,568 sq km; Lake Winnipeg - 24,387 sq km; Erie* - 12,776 sq km; Ontario* - 9,790 sq km; Lake Athabasca - 7,935 sq km; Reindeer Lake - 6,650 sq km; Nettilling Lake - 5,542 sq km
note - Great Lakes* area shown as Canadian watersMajor rivers (by length in km)
Mackenzie - 4, 241 km; Yukon river source (shared with the US [m]) - 3,185 km; Saint Lawrence river mouth (shared with US) - 3,058 km; Nelson - 2,570 km; Columbia river source (shared with the US [m]) - 1,953 km; Churchill - 1,600 km; Fraser - 1,368 km; Ottawa - 1,271 km; Athabasca - 1,231 km; North Saskatchewan - 1,220 km; Liard - 1,115 km
note – [s] after country name indicates river source; [m] after country name indicates river mouthAtlantic Ocean drainage: Mississippi* (Gulf of Mexico) (3,202,185 sq km, Canada only 32,000 sq km), Nelson (Hudson Bay) (1,093,141 sq km), Saint Lawrence* (1,049,636 sq km, Canada only 839,200 sq km)
Arctic Ocean drainage: Mackenzie (1,706,388 sq km)
Pacific Ocean drainage: Yukon* (847,620 sq km, Canada only 823,800 sq km), Columbia* (657,501 sq km, Canada only 103,000 sq km)
note - watersheds shared with the US shown with *Northern Great Plains Aquifer
municipal: 4.87 billion cubic meters (2020 est.)
industrial: 27.51 billion cubic meters (2020 est.)
agricultural: 3.86 billion cubic meters (2020 est.)Total renewable water resources
2.9 trillion cubic meters (2020 est.)
total global geoparks and regional networks: 5
global geoparks and regional networks: Perce; Stonehammer; Tumbler Ridge; Cliffs of Fundy; Discovery (2023) -
conventional long form: none
conventional short form: Canada
etymology: the country name likely derives from the St. Lawrence Iroquoian word "kanata" meaning village or settlementfederal parliamentary democracy (Parliament of Canada) under a constitutional monarchy; a Commonwealth realm; federal and state authorities and responsibilities regulated in constitution
name: Ottawa
geographic coordinates: 45 25 N, 75 42 W
time difference: UTC-5 (same time as Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November
time zone note: Canada has six time zones
etymology: the city lies on the south bank of the Ottawa River, from which it derives its name; the river name comes from the Algonquin word "adawe" meaning "to trade" and refers to the indigenous peoples who used the river as a trade highway10 provinces and 3 territories*; Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories*, Nova Scotia, Nunavut*, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan, Yukon*
1 July 1867 (union of British North American colonies); 11 December 1931 (recognized by UK per Statute of Westminster)
Canada Day, 1 July (1867)
common law system except in Quebec, where civil law based on the French civil code prevails
history: consists of unwritten and written acts, customs, judicial decisions, and traditions dating from 1763; the written part of the constitution consists of the Constitution Act of 29 March 1867, which created a federation of four provinces, and the Constitution Act of 17 April 1982
amendments: proposed by either house of Parliament or by the provincial legislative assemblies; there are 5 methods for passage though most require approval by both houses of Parliament, approval of at least two thirds of the provincial legislative assemblies and assent and formalization as a proclamation by the governor general in council; the most restrictive method is reserved for amendments affecting fundamental sections of the constitution, such as the office of the monarch or the governor general, and the constitutional amendment procedures, which require unanimous approval by both houses and by all the provincial assemblies, and assent of the governor general in council; amended 11 times, last in 2011 (Fair Representation Act, 2011)International law organization participation
accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction
citizenship by birth: yes
citizenship by descent only: yes
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: minimum of 3 of last 5 years resident in Canada18 years of age; universal
chief of state: King CHARLES III (since 8 September 2022); represented by Governor General Mary SIMON (since 6 July 2021)
head of government: Prime Minister Justin Pierre James TRUDEAU (since 4 November 2015)
cabinet: Federal Ministry chosen by the prime minister usually from among members of his/her own party sitting in Parliament
elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; governor general appointed by the monarch on the advice of the prime minister for a 5-year term; following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or majority coalition in the House of Commons generally designated prime minister by the governor general
note: the governor general position is largely ceremonialdescription: bicameral Parliament or Parlement consists of:
Senate or Senat (105 seats; members appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister and can serve until age 75)
House of Commons or Chambre des Communes (338 seats; members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote with terms up to 4 years)
elections: Senate - last appointed in July 2021
House of Commons - last held on 20 September 2021 (next to be held on or before 20 October 2025)
election results: Senate - composition - men 43, women 54, percentage women 55.7% (8 seats are vacant)
House of Commons - percent of vote by party - CPC 33.7%, Liberal Party 32.6%, NDP 17.8%, Bloc Quebecois 7.7%, Greens 2.3%, other 5.9%; seats by party - Liberal Party 159, CPC 119, NDP 25, Bloc Quebecois 32, Greens 2, independent 1; composition - men 234, women 102; percentage women 30.4%; total Parliament percentage women 35.2%highest court(s): Supreme Court of Canada (consists of the chief justice and 8 judges); note - in 1949, Canada abolished all appeals beyond its Supreme Court, which prior to that time, were heard by the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (in London)
judge selection and term of office: chief justice and judges appointed by the prime minister in council; all judges appointed for life with mandatory retirement at age 75
subordinate courts: federal level: Federal Court of Appeal; Federal Court; Tax Court; federal administrative tribunals; Courts Martial; provincial/territorial level: provincial superior, appeals, first instance, and specialized courts; note - in 1999, the Nunavut Court - a circuit court with the power of a provincial superior court, as well as a territorial court - was established to serve isolated settlementsBloc Quebecois
Conservative Party of Canada or CPC
Green Party
Liberal Party
New Democratic Party or NDP
People's Party of CanadaInternational organization participation
ADB (nonregional member), AfDB (nonregional member), APEC, Arctic Council, ARF, ASEAN (dialogue partner), Australia Group, BIS, C, CD, CDB, CE (observer), EAPC, EBRD, EITI (implementing country), FAO, FATF, G-7, G-8, G-10, G-20, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGAD (partners), IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MINUSTAH, MONUSCO, NAFTA, NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS, OECD, OIF, OPCW, OSCE, Pacific Alliance (observer), Paris Club, PCA, PIF (partner), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNMISS, UNRWA, UNTSO, UPU, USMCA, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WFTU (NGOs), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Kirsten HILLMAN (since 17 July 2020)
chancery: 501 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001
telephone: [1] (844) 880-6519
FAX: [1] (202) 682-7738
email address and website:
ccs.scc@international.gc.ca
https://www.international.gc.ca/country-pays/us-eu/washington.aspx?lang=eng
consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, New York, San Francisco, Seattle
trade office(s): Houston, Palo Alto (CA), San Diego; note - there are trade offices in the Consulates GeneralDiplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador David L. COHEN (since December 2021)
embassy: 490 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 1G8
mailing address: 5480 Ottawa Place, Washington DC 20521-5480
telephone: [1] (613) 688-5335
FAX: [1] (613) 241-7845
email address and website:
OttawaNIV@state.gov
https://ca.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Calgary, Halifax, Montreal, Quebec City, Toronto, Vancouver
consulate(s): Winnipegtwo vertical bands of red (hoist and fly side, half width) with white square between them; an 11-pointed red maple leaf is centered in the white square; the maple leaf has long been a Canadian symbol
maple leaf, beaver; national colors: red, white
name: "O Canada"
lyrics/music: Adolphe-Basile ROUTHIER [French], Robert Stanley WEIR [English]/Calixa LAVALLEE
note: adopted 1980; originally written in 1880, "O Canada" served as an unofficial anthem many years before its official adoption; the anthem has French and English versions whose lyrics differ; as a Commonwealth realm, in addition to the national anthem, "God Save the King" serves as the royal anthem (see United Kingdom)total World Heritage Sites: 22 (10 cultural, 11 natural, 1 mixed) (2021)
selected World Heritage Site locales: L'Anse aux Meadows (c); Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks (n); Dinosaur Provincial Park (n); Historic District of Old Quebec (c); Old Town Lunenburg (c); Wood Buffalo National Park (n); Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump (c); Gros Morne National Park (n); Pimachiowin Aki (m) -
one of the world’s leading developed economies; globally integrated commercial and financial markets; largest US trading partner; key energy, forestry, manufacturing and service industries; inflation recovering following interest rate hikes; government priorities include climate policy, immigration and affordable housing
Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$2.238 trillion (2023 est.)
$2.215 trillion (2022 est.)
$2.133 trillion (2021 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollarscomparison ranking: 16
1.07% (2023 est.)
3.82% (2022 est.)
5.29% (2021 est.)
note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currencycomparison ranking: 163
$55,800 (2023 est.)
$56,900 (2022 est.)
$55,800 (2021 est.)
note: data in 2021 dollarscomparison ranking: 34
$2.14 trillion (2023 est.)
note: data in current dollars at official exchange rateInflation rate (consumer prices)
3.88% (2023 est.)
6.8% (2022 est.)
3.4% (2021 est.)
note: annual % change based on consumer pricescomparison ranking: 78
Fitch rating: AA+ (2020)
Moody's rating: Aaa (2002)
Standard & Poors rating: AAA (2002)
note: The year refers to the year in which the current credit rating was first obtained.GDP - composition, by sector of origin
agriculture: 1.8% (2020 est.)
industry: 22.5% (2020 est.)
services: 69.6% (2020 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported datacomparison rankings: services 39; industry 119; agriculture 166
household consumption: 55.2% (2023 est.)
government consumption: 21.2% (2023 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 22.9% (2023 est.)
investment in inventories: 1% (2023 est.)
exports of goods and services: 33.5% (2023 est.)
imports of goods and services: -33.9% (2023 est.)
note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collectionwheat, rapeseed, maize, barley, milk, soybeans, potatoes, oats, peas, lentils (2022)
note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnagetransportation equipment, chemicals, processed and unprocessed minerals, food products, wood and paper products, fish products, petroleum, natural gas
Industrial production growth rate
-0.9% (2023 est.)
note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currencycomparison ranking: 165
22.11 million (2023 est.)
note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking workcomparison ranking: 31
5.37% (2023 est.)
5.28% (2022 est.)
7.53% (2021 est.)
note: % of labor force seeking employmentcomparison ranking: 103
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
total: 10.6% (2023 est.)
male: 11.4% (2023 est.)
female: 9.8% (2023 est.)
note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employmentcomparison ranking: total 129
Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income
31.7 (2019 est.)
note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequalitycomparison ranking: 112
Average household expenditures
on food: 9.5% of household expenditures (2022 est.)
on alcohol and tobacco: 3.7% of household expenditures (2022 est.)Household income or consumption by percentage share
lowest 10%: 2.9% (2019 est.)
highest 10%: 24.4% (2019 est.)
note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population0.04% of GDP (2023 est.)
0.04% of GDP (2022 est.)
0.04% of GDP (2021 est.)
note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entitiesrevenues: $393.642 billion (2022 est.)
expenditures: $399.8 billion (2022 est.)
note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenses converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated61.42% of GDP (2022 est.)
note: central government debt as a % of GDPcomparison ranking: 77
12.83% (of GDP) (2022 est.)
note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDPcomparison ranking: 156
-$13.255 billion (2023 est.)
-$7.622 billion (2022 est.)
$256.504 million (2021 est.)
note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollarscomparison ranking: 197
$717.677 billion (2023 est.)
$731.81 billion (2022 est.)
$626.676 billion (2021 est.)
note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollarscomparison ranking: 13
US 75%, China 4%, Japan 2%, UK 2%, Mexico 1% (2022)
note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exportscrude petroleum, cars, natural gas, refined petroleum, gold (2022)
note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars$726.139 billion (2023 est.)
$728.732 billion (2022 est.)
$626.558 billion (2021 est.)
note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollarscomparison ranking: 11
US 56%, China 11%, Mexico 4%, Germany 3%, Japan 2% (2022)
note: top five import partners based on percentage share of importscars, refined petroleum, vehicle parts/accessories, trucks, crude petroleum (2022)
note: top five import commodities based on value in dollarsReserves of foreign exchange and gold
$117.551 billion (2023 est.)
$106.952 billion (2022 est.)
$106.615 billion (2021 est.)
note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollarscomparison ranking: 28
Canadian dollars (CAD) per US dollar -
Exchange rates:
1.35 (2023 est.)
1.302 (2022 est.)
1.254 (2021 est.)
1.341 (2020 est.)
1.327 (2019 est.) -
electrification - total population: 100% (2022 est.)
installed generating capacity: 158.973 million kW (2022 est.)
consumption: 553.261 billion kWh (2022 est.)
exports: 65.225 billion kWh (2022 est.)
imports: 14.116 billion kWh (2022 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 33.626 billion kWh (2022 est.)comparison rankings: transmission/distribution losses 199; imports 18; exports 2; consumption 8; installed generating capacity 8
Electricity generation sources
fossil fuels: 17.2% of total installed capacity (2022 est.)
nuclear: 12.9% of total installed capacity (2022 est.)
solar: 0.9% of total installed capacity (2022 est.)
wind: 6% of total installed capacity (2022 est.)
hydroelectricity: 61.5% of total installed capacity (2022 est.)
biomass and waste: 1.5% of total installed capacity (2022 est.)Number of operational nuclear reactors: 19 (2023)
Net capacity of operational nuclear reactors: 13.7GW (2023 est.)
Percent of total electricity production: 13.7% (2023 est.)
Number of nuclear reactors permanently shut down: 6 (2023)production: 43.024 million metric tons (2022 est.)
consumption: 17.138 million metric tons (2022 est.)
exports: 29.114 million metric tons (2022 est.)
imports: 6.444 million metric tons (2022 est.)
proven reserves: 6.582 billion metric tons (2022 est.)total petroleum production: 5.692 million bbl/day (2023 est.)
refined petroleum consumption: 2.454 million bbl/day (2023 est.)
crude oil estimated reserves: 170.3 billion barrels (2021 est.)production: 187.686 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
consumption: 130.316 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
exports: 84.928 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
imports: 27.481 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
proven reserves: 2.067 trillion cubic meters (2021 est.)572.82 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2022 est.)
from coal and metallurgical coke: 25.74 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2022 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 290.996 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2022 est.)
from consumed natural gas: 256.084 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2022 est.)comparison ranking: total emissions 11
315.581 million Btu/person (2022 est.)
comparison ranking: 7
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total subscriptions: 11.312 million (2022 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 29 (2022 est.)comparison ranking: total subscriptions 16
total subscriptions: 35.082 million (2022 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 91 (2022 est.)comparison ranking: total subscriptions 44
general assessment: the Canadian telecom market continues to show steady development as operators invest in network upgrades; much of the investment among telcos has been channeled into LTE infrastructure to capitalize on consumer demand for mobile data services, while there has also been further investment in 5G; investment programs have also been supported by regulatory efforts to ensure that operators have spectrum available to develop 5G services; an investment in fixed-line infrastructure, focused on FttP and, among cable broadband providers; government policy has encouraged the extension of broadband to rural and regional areas, with the result that services are almost universally available and the emphasis now is on improving service speeds to enable the entire population to benefit from the digital economy and society; cable broadband is the principal access platform, followed by DSL; the mobile rate remains comparatively low by international standards; Canadians have provided for LTE and LTE-A infrastructure; despite topographical challenges and the remoteness of many areas, the major players effectively offer 99% population coverage with LTE; operators now provide up to 70% population coverage with 5G (2024)
domestic: Nearly 29 per 100 fixed-line and 91 per 100 mobile-cellular teledensity (2022)
international: country code - 1; landing points for the Nunavut Undersea Fiber Optic Network System, Greenland Connect, Persona, GTT Atlantic, and Express, KetchCan 1 Submarine Fiber Cable system, St Pierre and Miquelon Cable submarine cables providing links to the US and Europe; satellite earth stations - 7 (5 Intelsat - 4 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean, and 2 Intersputnik - Atlantic Ocean region) (2019)2 public TV broadcasting networks, 1 in English and 1 in French, each with a large number of network affiliates; several private-commercial networks also with multiple network affiliates; overall, about 150 TV stations; multi-channel satellite and cable systems provide access to a wide range of stations including US stations; mix of public and commercial radio broadcasters with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), the public radio broadcaster, operating 4 radio networks, Radio Canada International, and radio services to indigenous populations in the north; roughly 1,119 licensed radio stations (2016)
.ca
total: 35.34 million (2021 est.)
percent of population: 93% (2021 est.)comparison ranking: total 28
Broadband - fixed subscriptions
total: 15,825,813 (2020 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 42 (2020 est.)comparison ranking: total 16
-
number of registered air carriers: 51 (2020)
inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 879
annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 89.38 million (2018)
annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 3,434,070,000 (2018) mt-kmCivil aircraft registration country code prefix
C
1,425 (2024)
comparison ranking: 5
481 (2024)
840,000 km oil and gas (2020)
total: 49,422 km (2021) note: 129 km electrified (2021)
standard gauge: 49,422 km (2021) 1.435-m gaugecomparison ranking: total 5
total: 1,042,300 km
paved: 415,600 km (includes 17,000 km of expressways)
unpaved: 626,700 km (2011)comparison ranking: total 8
636 km (2011) (Saint Lawrence Seaway of 3,769 km, including the Saint Lawrence River of 3,058 km, shared with United States)
comparison ranking: 85
total: 716 (2023)
by type: bulk carrier 22, container ship 1, general cargo 78, oil tanker 15, other 600comparison ranking: total 32
total ports: 284 (2024)
large: 4
medium: 14
small: 58
very small: 149
size unknown: 59
ports with oil terminals: 59
key ports: Argentia, Canaport (St. John), Halifax, Hamilton, Montreal, New Westminster, Pond Inlet, Prince Rupert, Quebec, Sept Iles, St. John, Sydney, Thunder Bay, Toronto, Trois Rivieres, Vancouver, Victoria Harbor, Windsor -
Canadian Forces: Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Navy, Royal Canadian Air Force; Department of Fisheries and Oceans: Coast Guard (2024)
note 1: the CAF is comprised of both a Regular Force and a Reserve Force; the Reserve Force is part of all three services (Army, Navy, and Air Force) and is considered an integral component of the CAF; reservists are primarily part-time service positions; they may volunteer for full-time employment or deployment on operations; they typically serve one or more evenings a week and/or during weekends at locations close to home; the Reserve Force is comprised of the Primary Reserve, Canadian Rangers, Cadet Organizations Administration and Training Service, and the Supplementary Reserve; the Canadian Rangers are part of the Army Reserve Force and provide a limited presence in Canada's northern, coastal, and isolated areas for sovereignty, public safety, and surveillance roles
note 2: the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP or "Mounties") are under the Department of Public Safety; only Ontario, Quebec, and Newfoundland and Labrador have provincial police forces, but the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary contracts policing in regions of the province to the RCMP; the RCMP and municipal forces provide coverage for other provinces and territories; some Indigenous reserves provide Indigenous policing; provincial and municipal police report to their respective provincial authorities1.4% of GDP (2024)
1.3% of GDP (2023)
1.2% of GDP (2022)
1.3% of GDP (2021)
1.4% of GDP (2020)comparison ranking: 100
Military and security service personnel strengths
approximately 70,000 active armed forces personnel (23,000 Army; 12,000 Navy; 12,000 Air Force; 23,000 other) (2024)
note: the Army also has approximately 19,000 part-time volunteer soldiers in the Reserve Force, including about 5,500 RangersMilitary equipment inventories and acquisitions
the CAF's inventory is a mix of domestically produced equipment and imported weapons systems from Australia, Europe, Israel, and the US; in recent years, the leading supplier has been the US; Canada's defense industry develops, maintains, and produces a range of equipment, including aircraft, combat vehicles, naval vessels, and associated components (2024)
Military service age and obligation
17 years of age for voluntary male and female military service (with parental consent); 16 years of age for Reserve and Military College applicants; Canadian citizenship or permanent residence status required; maximum 34 years of age; service obligation 3-9 years (2023)
note 1: Canada opened up all military occupations to women in 2001; women in 2023 comprised about 16% of the CAF
note 2: the CAF offers waivers to foreign nationals applying for military service only in exceptional cases — to individuals on international military exchanges, for example, or to candidates who have specialized skills in high demandthe CAF has approximately 1,000 military personnel forward deployed for NATO air, land, and sea missions in the European theater, including a ground task force in Latvia; it also contributes smaller numbers of air, ground, and naval forces to a variety of other NATO and international missions (2024)
note: in 2024, Canada announced plans to have a full 2,000-person brigade deployed to Latvia by 2026the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are responsible for external security; the CAF’s core missions include detecting, deterring, and defending against threats to or attacks on Canada; the military also provides assistance to civil authorities and law enforcement as needed for such missions as counterterrorism, search and rescue, and responding to natural disasters or other major emergencies; it regularly participates in bilateral and multinational training exercises with a variety of partners, including NATO (Canada is one of the original members) and the US; the CAF also contributes to international peacekeeping, stability, humanitarian, combat, and capacity building operations with the UN, NATO, and other security partners
Canada is part of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD; established 1958); NORAD is a Canada-US bi-national military command responsible for monitoring and defending North American airspace; traditionally, a CAF officer has served as the deputy commander of NORAD; Canada’s defense relationship with the US extends back to the Ogdensburg Declaration of 1940, when the two countries formally agreed on military cooperation, including the establishment of the Permanent Joint Board on Defense (PJBD), which continues to be the highest-level bilateral defense forum between Canada and the US
British troops withdrew from Canada in 1871 as part of the UK-US Treaty of Washington; following the withdrawal, the first Canadian militia, known as the Royal Canadian Regiment, was organized in 1883 to protect Canadian territory and defend British interests abroad, which it did in the South African War (1899-1902), Canada’s first overseas conflict; militia units formed the backbone of the more than 425,000 Canadian soldiers that went to Europe during World War I in what was called the Canadian Expeditionary Force; the Royal Canadian Navy was created in 1910, while the Canadian Air Force was established in 1920 and became the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1924; the Canadian Army was officially founded in 1942; a unified Canadian Armed Forces was created in 1968 (2024) -
Canadian Space Agency (CSA; established 1989) (2024)
Churchill Rocket Research Range (sounding rockets; Manitoba); constructing a private, commercial space launch site in Nova Scotia (2023)
has a substantial program, a national space strategy, and a long history of developing space-related technologies; designs, builds, operates, and tracks communications, remote sensing (RS), multi-mission, and scientific/testing satellites; has an astronaut program (train in the US); designs, builds, or contributes to a variety of other space-related programs, including space telescopes, planetary probes, sensors, and robotic systems (such as the Canadian-made robotic arms used on the US Space Shuttle and the International Space Station); participates in international space efforts and cooperates with a variety of foreign space agencies and commercial entities, including those of Argentina, Brazil, the European Space Agency (ESA)/EU (and their member states), India, and particularly the US; ESA Cooperating State since 1979; has a robust commercial space sector that is involved in satellite communications, optics, space exploration, navigation, and space science (2024)
note: further details about the key activities, programs, and milestones of the country’s space program, as well as government spending estimates on the space sector, appear in the Space Programs reference guide -
Terrorist group(s): Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Hizballah
note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in the Terrorism reference guide -
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees (country of origin): 22,400 (Venezuela) (refugees and migrants) (2020); 5,254 (Iran) (mid-year 2021)
stateless persons: 4,323 (2022)transnational criminal organizations trafficked cocaine, opium, methamphetamine, other synthetic drugs, and prescription drugs (some of which transited the United States) to Canada for domestic consumption; a source of synthetic drugs (including synthetic opioids), cannabis, and MDMA trafficked to the United States; a major source of precursor or essential chemicals used in the production of illicit narcotics
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