Invest in Canada

As announced in the 2016 Fall Economic Statement, the Government of Canada is providing $218 million over five years to create a new organization, Invest in Canada, focused on streamlining and encouraging investment in Canada. This funding, which includes the hiring of 25 new trade commissioners over the next three years, will also increase the capacity of Global Affairs Canada’s Canadian Trade Commissioner Service to promote international investment in strategic markets around the world.

Foreign direct investment is a critical component of Canada’s economy, with benefits that stimulate the economy, spur innovation, improve productivity and facilitate access to international markets.

Under the leadership of a chief executive officer and an independent board of directors, Invest in Canada is developing a cohesive foreign direct investment strategy to align with the country’s overall economic growth strategy, promote Canada as a premier investment destination and establish an investor support network, including world-class investment aftercare, retention and reinvestment services.

The board is responsible for managing and supervising Invest in Canada’s business and affairs, including reviewing and approving its annual business plan, annual report on results, and monitoring the agency’s performance in achieving its results. The board is also responsible for advising the minister and the chief executive officer on matters relating to the Invest in Canada’s mandate.

List of appointees

• George N. Addy, Partner, Davies Ward Phillips and Vineberg LLP
• Suzanne M. Benoit, Présidente-directrice générale, Aéro Montréal
• Timothy Dattels, Co-Managing Partner, Senior Partner TPG Capital Asia
• Van Paul Lee, Managing Partner and Founder, Vanedge Capital.
• Michele McKenzie, Principal, McKenzie Strategies
• Peggy Van De Plassche, Managing Partner, Roar Ventures

The appointment of the board of directors of Invest in Canada was a result of the Government of Canada’s new recruitment approach for Governor-in-Council appointments. This new approach ensures an open, transparent and merit-based process that attracts high-quality candidates while reflecting gender parity and Canada’s diversity.