Ministerial transition book May 2025 — Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

May 2025

For the Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, Minister of Artificial intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism), and Secretary of State (Rural Development).

Table of contents

Introduction to ISED and the Portfolio

Leadership

ISED is the federal institution that forms the core of the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Portfolio, which is comprised of 23 separate organizations.

Raison d'être

ISED and the Portfolio work with Canadians in all areas of the economy and in all parts of the country to improve conditions for investment, enhance Canada's innovation performance, increase Canada's share of global trade, and build a fair, efficient, and competitive marketplace.

Mandate

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) is responsible for fostering a growing, competitive, and knowledge-based Canadian economy. The department works to create the conditions for firms to innovate, grow, and compete globally—supporting job creation and economic prosperity for Canadians. ISED supports scientific research and promotes the integration of science and innovation into policy and investment decisions. It also helps small and medium-sized firms (SMEs) scale-up through innovation and access to global markets, and plays a role in promoting tourism and regional economic development.

Overview of ISED and Portfolio

ISED and the Portfolio consist of federal departments, agencies, councils, Crown corporations, tribunals and associated organizations, that collectively help to shape Canada's economic and innovation landscape (see pages 16 – 31 for more information about their mandates and leadership).

Structure of ISED, the Portfolio, and associated organizations

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (the department)

  • Sectors
  • Corporations Canada
  • Office of the Chief Science Advisor

Special operating agencies

  • Canadian Intellectual Property Office
  • Competition Bureau
  • Health Emergency Readiness Canada
  • Measurement Canada
  • Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy

ISED portfolio entities

Agencies

  • Canadian Space Agency
  • Statistics Canada

Councils

  • National Research Council Canada
  • Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
  • Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada

Crown Corporations

  • Business Development Bank of Canada
  • Destination Canada
  • Standards Council of Canada

Quasi-judicial tribunals

  • Competition Tribunal
  • Copyright Board Canada

Regional development agencies

  • Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
  • Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
  • Pacific Economic Development Canada
  • Prairies Economic Development Canada
  • Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
  • Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
  • Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

Entities outside the portfolio

Associated organizations

  • Canada Foundation for Innovation
  • Council of Canadian Academies
  • Genome Canada

Administrative tribunal (other portfolio)

  • Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission

ISED Deputy Ministers

Philip Jennings, Deputy Minister

Philip Jennings was appointed Deputy Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development in November 2024. Previously, Philip served as Executive Director, Canada, Ireland, and the Caribbean at the International Monetary Fund, having held previously various senior leadership roles within the federal public service, including as Senior Advisor to the Privy Council Office, Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet (Plans and Consultations) at the Privy Council Office, Associate Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, and numerous senior leadership roles at ISED, Industry Canada, Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd., and Natural Resources Canada.

Sony Perron, Deputy Minister, Economic Development

Sony Perron was appointed Deputy Minister of Economic Development in May 2024. Sony is concurrently Deputy Minister/President of Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED). He previously served as President of Shared Services Canada (SSC), Associate Deputy Minister of Indigenous Services Canada, and held a variety of prior senior leadership roles at Health Canada, Indigenous Services Canada, Treasury Board Secretariat, and Employment and Social Development Canada.

Francis Bilodeau, Associate Deputy Minister

Francis Bilodeau was appointed Associate Deputy Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development in January 2022. Previously, Francis was the Senior Assistant Deputy Minister, Strategy and Innovation Policy Sector, at ISED. Mr. Bilodeau held a variety of senior leadership roles, including as the Chief Information Officer of the Government of Canada and assistant deputy minister roles at the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat and the Privy Council Office.

ISED and the Portfolio's Legislative and Regulatory Frameworks

ISED's enabling legislation is the Department of Industry Act, which outlines the powers, duties, and functions of the Minister of Industry. It provides the legal foundation for the Department's work across various economic sectors, including industry, trade, science, technology, consumer affairs, and regional development. In addition, ISED and the Portfolio are responsible for administering a suite of federal statutes and regulations that establish frameworks for competition, consumer protection, intellectual property, and telecommunications, among others.

Marketplace Legislation

  • Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act
  • Boards of Trade Act
  • Business Development Bank of Canada Act
  • Canada Business Corporations Act
  • Canada Cooperatives Act
  • Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act
  • Canada Small Business Financing Act
  • Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act
  • Competition Act
  • Investment Canada Act
  • Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act
  • Winding-up and Restructuring Act

Consumer Legislation

  • Bills of Exchange Act
  • Canada's Anti-Spam Legislation
  • Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act
  • Electricity and Gas Inspection Act
  • Precious Metals Marking Act
  • Textile Labelling Act
  • Weights and Measures Act

Intellectual Property Legislation

  • College of Patent Agents and Trademark Agents Act
  • Copyright Act
  • Industrial Design Act
  • Integrated Circuit Topography Act
  • Olympic and Paralympic Marks Act
  • Patent Act
  • Public Servants Inventions Act
  • Trademarks Act

Telecommunications Legislation

  • Radiocommunication Act
  • Telecommunications Act

ISED and the Portfolio: Core Activities

Overview

ISED and the Portfolio work to create the conditions to strengthen and grow Canada's economy—ultimately driving job creation and wealth for Canadians. ISED and the Portfolio engage across all sectors of the economy and throughout the country, promoting economic resilience, growth, competitiveness, and innovation, among others. ISED and the Portfolio also play a role in consumer protection, supporting a thriving digital economy and regional economic development.

The core functions of ISED and the Portfolio are to:

Marketplace frameworks

Administer and enforce legislation and regulations that support a fair, efficient, and competitive economy. These frameworks set rules for fair market conduct, safeguard consumer and firm information, support the creation and protection of intellectual property, and uphold the rights of creators and innovators. They also support firms to incorporate and transition in an orderly manner, including through incorporation and insolvency processes. In addition, they contribute to consumer protection by addressing deceptive practices, promoting product safety, and supporting informed consumer choice.

Telecommunications and digital economy

Regulate and enforce telecommunications and spectrum use in Canada. This includes setting standards, authorizing equipment, managing spectrum licensing and auctions, and advancing competition and access to high-quality, affordable services. ISED also leads policy development on digital issues such as cybersecurity, data governance, artificial intelligence (AI), and 5G infrastructure.

Science, technology and space policy

Support Canada's science and research enterprise by funding fundamental and applied research, developing science policy, and guiding federal investments in emerging technologies. This includes advancing leadership in fields like quantum, AI, and genomics. ISED and the Portfolio also contribute to space policy and satellite oversight, supporting both commercial activity and international collaboration.

Innovation and scale-up

Support and enable firms in Canada to grow and scale-up – from start-up to globally competitive firms. Programs support research and development (R&D), commercialization, scaling, and collaboration across sectors. Procurement tools and small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)-focused supports position government as an early adopter and accelerator of Canadian innovation.

Supporting economic sectors

Work closely with key industries to enhance sector competitiveness and resilience. Through initiatives and partnerships, ISED and the Portfolio support sectors critical to Canada's economy, including efforts to help Canadian firms compete in global markets through international collaboration, alignment with global standards, and trade-enabling initiatives.

Regional economic development

Advance and support place-based economic growth by supporting firms and communities across Canada's diverse regions. This work strengthens regional economies and promotes inclusive economic growth across the country.

Marketplace frameworks

ISED and the Portfolio play an important role in shaping the rules that govern a fair and competitive marketplace, supporting broad economic stability and consumer trust. ISED and the Portfolio administer core legislative frameworks that enable firms to operate in Canada on a level playing field and to protect consumers. This includes:

Fair competition

ISED and the Portfolio are responsible for legislative frameworks that prevent anti-competitive practices such as price-fixing, abuse of dominance, and deceptive marketing, helping to maintain a level playing field for firms operating in Canada.

Digital and intellectual property rights

ISED and the Portfolio are responsible for legislative frameworks related to copyright, privacy, and data governance. These frameworks help protect creative works, ensure responsible handling of personal information, and support trust and fairness in the digital economy.

Consumer protection

While consumer protection has a significant provincial dimension, ISED and the Portfolio play a role at the federal level, particularly in regulating the safety, reliability, and accuracy of goods and services.

Investment attraction

ISED reviews foreign investments to ensure that it benefits Canada, supporting economic resilience and security, growth and creating new opportunities for firms.

Incorporation, insolvency and trusteeship

ISED is responsible for the legal frameworks that govern federal business incorporation, corporate restructuring, insolvency, and the regulation of licensed insolvency trustees. This includes enabling the creation of firms, supporting orderly transitions, and oversight over Canada's insolvency system.

Telecommunications and the digital economy

ISED and the Portfolio support telecommunications and the digital economy by:

Setting, administering and enforcing legislation and regulation

ISED and the Portfolio lead telecommunications policy for the Government of Canada to promote sector competition, investment, affordability, and access to high-quality services, including administering the Telecommunications Act that sets out the framework for Canada's telecommunications carriers and services to ensure they serve the interests of consumers, and the Radiocommunication Act that governs the use of spectrum in Canada, a public resource essential for the country's wide range of wireless services. This involves authorizing its use, setting standards, certifying equipment, and holding auctions. ISED and the Portfolio also administers Canada's anti-spam legislation that serves to protect consumers and firms from the misuse of digital technology.

Supporting the infrastructure necessary for an accessible digital economy

ISED and the Portfolio advance the security and resilience of digital infrastructure and administer funding programs that work to improve the availability of telecommunications services in unserved and underserved areas, including rural and Northern communities, notably through the Universal Broadband Fund.

Enabling innovation and emerging technologies

ISED and the Portfolio support the responsible development and adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), including AI governance and standards within Canada and on international level. ISED and the Portfolio also advance policies and initiatives that foster a strong digital and data-driven economy, including support for innovators, startups, and scale-ups in Canada, and promote digital skills development and inclusion to support Canadians full participation in the digital economy.

Science, technology and space policy

ISED and the Portfolio support fundamental and applied research by:

Supporting researchers to have the necessary resources

ISED and the Portfolio support efforts to pursue bold questions and train new generations of students while optimizing federal investments in science and research. This includes mobilizing the expertise and resources of independent science organizations to enhance Canada's excellence in science, technology, and innovation.

Providing funding to support fundamental and applied science

ISED and the Portfolio deliver these through various mechanisms, including the two federal granting agencies, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, which both provide funding to support students, promote and support discovery research, and encourage greater collaboration between industry and academia. The Canadian Institutes of Health Research, a third federal granting council, falls under the purview of the Minister of Health.

Other funding initiatives within the Portfolio focus on building skills through the promotion of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics; on strengthening Canada's research infrastructure; on enhancing areas of strength, including space technologies; and on supporting firms in the development and deployment of research.

Innovation and scale-up

ISED and the Portfolio work to strengthen Canada's innovation advantage and support growth in key sectors and to help firms in Canada innovate, scale, and compete globally via:

Innovation and Research & Development (R&D)

ISED and the Portfolio support firms to develop, adopt and commercialize R&D and innovation, including technology adoption, AI, and advanced manufacturing technologies. Programs like the Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP), led by the National Research Council Canada, the RDA's Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI), and ISED programs such as the Strategic Innovation Fund and the Life Sciences Fund, provide critical support to industries across the innovation continuum.

Access to financing

ISED administers programs to support SME access to capital via the Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP) and the Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative (VCCI). In addition, the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) supports Canadian small businesses through loans and loan guarantees, venture capital investments, and advisory services. These supports help fill market gaps and support growing firms have access to the capital they need to start and scale.

Entrepreneurship

ISED and the Portfolio's entrepreneurship programs are designed to provide entrepreneurs and SMEs with the necessary tools, financial support, and resources to start, grow, and scale. By offering a combination of funding, advisory services, mentorship and networking opportunities, these programs contribute to economic growth, increased productivity, and business resilience, creating the conditions for entrepreneurs to thrive in Canada's economy.

Supply chain resiliency and trade

ISED works to enhance domestic manufacturing expertise and capacity, supply chains, and expand trade relationships through targeted industry and export programs, such as the Global Hypergrowth Project and Accelerated Growth Service, in order to shape a more resilient and inclusive Canadian economy.

Skills and talent

ISED works to address Canada's workforce industry needs by supporting work-integrated learning, youth career pathways, and training in high-growth sectors to ensure firms have access to the talent needed to thrive in an innovation-driven Canadian economy.

Emergency readiness

ISED works to bolster Canada's domestic capabilities for the development and production of critical medical countermeasures and related technologies to address Canada's health and biosecurity needs.

Supporting economic sectors

ISED and the Portfolio support Canada's industrial sectors by:

  • Leading federal initiatives for key industrial sectors (e.g. aerospace, tourism, automotive, steel and aluminum, manufacturing, clean tech, critical minerals and energy, digital technology, food processing, life sciences and biomanufacturing) to improve conditions for investment, enhance innovation performance, and increase Canada's share of global trade
  • Bringing together expertise and knowledge, alongside critical programs and services, to meet Government of Canada priorities and support firms in achieving economic growth
  • Working directly with firms to gain insights, address challenges, and develop solutions that drive economic growth by leveraging key opportunities and building on Canada's strengths

Regional economic development

The seven Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) in the ISED Portfolio are the mandated federal agents dedicated to supporting growth conditions and opportunities in their respective regions, based on local strengths and priorities—ensuring that all regions contribute to and benefit from national prosperity. RDAs leverage their presence on the ground all across the country to engage stakeholders, design and deliver place-based, regionally tailored, nationally consistent programs that:

  • support the competitiveness and growth of firms (e.g. SMEs), adapting to their needs and circumstances;
  • strengthen local economies in their development and diversification efforts; and
  • respond to shocks that affect regional economies, such as natural disasters or the stoppage of a significant economic activity, by helping firms and communities recover and find a path to long-term prosperity

ISED also engages regionally via five regional ISED offices – Pacific, Prairie and Northern, Ontario, Quebec, Atlantic – that gather and report regional intelligence, support ministerial outreach, support implementation of certain key departmental files, and enhance the department's understanding of local and regional issues, opportunities and stakeholders.

ISED Sectors

ISED implements its activities through departmental Sectors, which work in partnership with Portfolio Organizations, other government departments, and stakeholders.

Strategic Policy Sector (SPS)

SPS plays a key role in designing and implementing the Government of Canada's microeconomic policy agenda and in supporting departmental alignment and coherence. SPS is responsible for developing and supporting ISED and the Portfolio's horizontal, strategic policy and economic analysis and research efforts. It is responsible for setting marketplace frameworks, administering legislation, including the Investment Canada Act, deepening and managing international, intergovernmental and regional affairs, coordination and regulatory modernization, and policy related to telecommunications, digital and AI, and economic security. Also, within SPS are the five regional offices, which gather intelligence in the regions, and align with the work of the Regional Development Agencies as part of the broader Portfolio.

Leadership

  • Alexandra Dostal, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister
  • Kasi McMicking, Associate Assistant Deputy Minister

Spectrum and Telecommunications Sector (STS)

STS is responsible for regulating wireless communications and licenses and manages radiofrequency spectrum to maximize the economic and social benefits that Canadians derive from its use. STS also regulates telecommunications equipment, funds the expansion of broadband networks in rural and remote regions of Canada, and is responsible for the safety and security of existing and future telecommunications infrastructure and emergency response. STS works across ISED, with other federal government departments and stakeholders, domestically and internationally, to support a competitive wireless industry, strong investment, cyber-resilience, and economic growth.

Leadership

  • Chris Padfield, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister
  • Ray Edwards, Associate Assistant Deputy Minister

Industry Sector (IS)

IS is responsible for economic policy for a range of economic sectors, including aerospace, space, automotive, steel, aluminum, critical minerals, clean technologies and defence. IS undertakes outreach and engagement with industry and other actors relevant to Canada's industrial economy. It supports the delivery of ISED's industry-focused programs and undertakes investment attraction work including supporting the federal government's industry promotion efforts. The sector is also responsible for the management of the Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy.

Leadership

  • Charles Vincent, Senior Assistant Deputy Minister
  • Kendal Hembroff, Associate Assistant Deputy Minister

Small Business, Tourism and Marketplace Services (SBTMS)

SBTMS is responsible for designing and delivering policies, programs and services related to small business, entrepreneurship, and for tourism policy, including a liaison role with Destination Canada. It also oversees regulatory functions in federal incorporation and insolvency, developing and coordinating access to financing and venture capital policies, including via the Business Development Bank of Canada, the Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative and the Canada Small Business Financing Program, Measurement Canada, Corporations Canada, and the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy. SBTMS is also a focal point to coordinating consumer protection policy, working with other federal partners to protect and advance the interests of Canadian consumers.

Leadership

  • Etienne-René Massie, Assistant Deputy Minister

Innovation Canada Sector (ICS)

ICS manages several programs and services that are designed to help firms innovate, create jobs, and grow Canada's economy. These programs are a catalyst for building dynamic private-public partnerships in Canada's innovation ecosystem, supporting Canadian innovators in strategically leveraging Canadian intellectual property and, assisting firms in tackling challenges and scaling-up. Programs administered by ICS include: Global Innovation Clusters; the Strategic Innovation Fund; ElevateIP; Innovative Solutions Canada; the Coordinated Accessible National (CAN) Health Network; and, the Global Hypergrowth Project. Services include: the Accelerated Growth Service; Business Benefits Finders; and, BizPal.

Leadership

  • Andrea Johnston, Assistant Deputy Minister
  • Stephanie Tanton, Assistant Deputy Minister

Science and Research Sector (SRS)

SRS leads the development and implementation of the Government's science and technology policy agenda to optimize federal investments in research, drive innovation, and enhance Canadians' well-being. It provides policy advice on external research, relationships with post-secondary institutions, granting agencies, while overseeing strategic direction and funding for research, talent, and infrastructure. SRS helps to shape federal priorities in science and emerging technologies, supports research security, and fosters collaboration among Canadian and international science stakeholders. It also advances global science relations, including through initiatives like Horizon Europe, to translate Canada's research leadership into economic and societal benefits.

Leadership

  • Nipun Vats, Assistant Deputy Minister

Strategic Communications and Marketing Sector (SCMS)

SCMS has a mandate to deliver high-impact communications and marketing initiatives, providing minister(s) and officials with strategic communications and marketing advice, expertise, products, and services that help advance key Government of Canada priorities and mandate commitments. SCMS also supports a transparent and inclusive corporate culture at ISED through timely and accessible corporate communications and meaningful engagement with departmental employees.

Leadership

  • Jean-Philippe Lapointe, Assistant Deputy Minister

Interdepartmental Task Force (ITF) – Salmon Aquaculture Transition in British Columbia

The ITF – comprised of over 10 federal departments and agencies and coordinated by ISED – was formed in 2024 with the mandate to consult and engage on the Draft Salmon Aquaculture Transition Plan for British Columbia and to develop a Final Transition Plan to support the transition away from open net-pen salmon aquaculture in British Columbia by June 30, 2029.

Leadership

  • Darryl Patterson, Assistant Deputy Minister

Office of the Chief Science Advisor (OCSA)

OCSA provides advice on the development and implementation of guidelines to ensure that government science is available to the public. It is also responsible for providing advice on creating and implementing processes to ensure that scientific analyses are considered when the Government makes decisions. Further, it assesses and recommends ways to improve the existing science advisory function within the federal government and ways for the Government to better support quality scientific research within the federal system.

Leadership

  • Dr. Mona Nemer, Chief Science Advisor

Corporations Canada

CC helps Canadians incorporate firms, not-for-profit corporations and other corporate entities according to Canada's federal laws and regulations. The mandate of CC is to provide a trusted regulatory climate that maintains order and fairness in the corporate law arena, promoting greater certainty in the Canadian market. CC's mandate stems from a number of statutes, primarily the Canada Business Corporations Act, the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act, the Canada Cooperatives Act, and the Boards of Trade Act.

Leadership

  • Hantz Prosper, Director General

Digital Transformation Service Sector (DTSS)

DTSS provides client-centric digital services, fosters the adoption of digital approaches and supports a modern IT infrastructure with efficient and technologically enabled service to business. DTSS partners across ISED and other ecosystem stakeholders to better serve Canadian businesses, with a primary focus on driving ISED's digital transformation agenda to create innovative data and digital services for all stakeholders.

Leadership

  • Dan Boulet, Assistant Deputy Minister and Chief Digital Officer

Corporate Management Sector (CMS)

CMS provides comptrollership of ISED's finances and the management of human resources, and stewardship for ISED's resources and programs, grants and contributions, assets, investments, facilities and security, as well as overseeing the Department's corporate planning and accountability reporting regimes, providing strategic advice on risk management, and the affordability and integrity of program proposals.

Leadership

  • Douglas McConnachie, Assistant Deputy Minister and Chief Financial Officer

Audit and Evaluation Branch (AEB)

AEB provides independent, professional, and quality audit, evaluation, and practice management services founded on sound values and ethics to support informed decision-making and enhanced performance and accountability. It also fulfills the Department's obligations under the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat's policies, directives, and standards on internal audit and evaluations, as well as conformance with the Institute of Internal Auditors international standards.

Leadership

  • Kimberley Accardi, Chief Audit Executive and Director General

Legal Services (LS)

ISED's LS is a departmental legal services unit that is a part of the Business and Regulatory Law Portfolio of the Department of Justice. LS strives to deliver timely and effective professional legal services to all Sectors of ISED, as well as to other government departments and agencies of the ISED Portfolio, according to the service agreements and standards set by the Department of Justice.

Leadership

  • Alain Vauclair, Senior General Counsel and Executive Director

Special Operating Agencies (SOAs)

SOAs are internal service organizations that operate within a framework approved by the Deputy Minister and the responsible Minister, without requiring separate enabling legislation. They remain part of the department's organizational structure and are ultimately accountable through the Deputy Minister to the Minister.

Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO)

CIPO is a special operating agency under ISED, mandated to accelerate Canada's economic development by fostering the utilization of intellectual property (IP) systems and the exploitation of IP information. CIPO encourages invention, innovation and creativity in Canada, administering the IP systems in Canada and promoting Canada's international IP interests. CIPO is completely self-funded, operating a revolving fund that is a non-lapsing authority whereby services provided are completely funded by the users of the IP system in Canada. CIPO administers the following pieces of legislation: Patent Act, Trademarks Act, Industrial Design Act, Copyright Act, Integrated Circuit Topographies Act, and the Olympic and Paralympic Marks Act.

Leadership

  • Konstantinos Georgaras, Commissioner of Patents, Registrar of Trademarks and Chief Executive Officer

Competition Bureau (CB)

CB is an independent law enforcement agency that serves to protect and promote competition for the benefit of consumers and firms in Canada. CB is responsible for the administration and enforcement of four pieces of legislation:

  • Competition Act
  • Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act
  • Textile Labelling Act
  • Precious Metals Marketing Act

The Competition Act includes both criminal and civil provisions designed to prevent anti-competitive practices and promote competition in Canada. Its purpose is to enhance the efficiency and adaptability of the Canadian economy, expand opportunities for Canadian participation in global markets while acknowledging the role of foreign competition, ensure small and medium-sized enterprises have fair opportunities in the economy, and provide consumers with competitive prices and various product choices.

Leadership

  • Matthew Boswell, Commissioner of Competition

Health Emergency Readiness Canada (HERC)

HERC delivers on a two-part mandate to position Canada as a global leader in the life sciences by growing the domestic ecosystem, and in so doing, establishing Canada's technological and industrial health emergency readiness to respond to the full scope of emerging public health threats. HERC operates as a special operating agency, equipped with technical and subject-matter expertise, positioned to deploy a variety of tools, including the Life Sciences Fund, which can support life science innovations through to commercialization. HERC reports to the Minister via the ISED Deputy Minister and also supports the Minister of the Health via the Deputy Minister of Health Canada.

Leadership

  • Ritu Banerjee, Assistant Deputy Minister and Interim Head

Measurement Canada (MC)

MC is the regulatory body entrusted with ensuring the accuracy and reliability of trade measurement in Canada, specifically for financial transactions involving the purchase and sale of measured goods. As the national authority responsible for legal metrology, MC ensures the integrity of measurement requirements across the country, an integral part of Canada's national quality infrastructure. MC sets and administers rules for measurement-based transactions, and certifies measuring devices such as scales, fuel pumps, electricity and natural gas meters, and EV chargers, enforcing the Weights and Measures Act, the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act, and parts of the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act. MC approves measuring devices used in trade, calibrates physical measurement standards, investigates complaints, takes enforcement action to address non-compliance, and oversees authorized service providers through accreditation and audits.

Leadership

  • Anne-Marie Monteith, President

Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB)

OSB oversees licenses and regulates insolvency professionals; supervises bankruptcies, consumer proposals, reorganizations, and receiverships; maintains public records of Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (BIA) and Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) filings; investigates complaints; and enforces compliance. It operates on a cost-recovery basis through a vote net revenue model. OSB is responsible for the administration of the BIA, which supports investor confidence, helps return assets to productive use,, and promotes the reorganization of viable firms, and certain matters under the CCAA, which allows insolvent corporations to restructure or liquidate in order to maximize returns for creditors, preserve jobs, and maintain value.

Leadership

  • Elisabeth Lang, Superintendent of Bankruptcy

Portfolio Organizations

Regional Development Agencies

The Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) design and deliver place-based, regionally tailored, nationally consistent programs, funding supports, and initiatives. There are seven RDAs that are dedicated to the economic development of the regions they serve and aim to deliver regional expertise and flexible programs that are responsive and adaptable to regional needs. RDAs work across industries and geographies to seize on regional economic opportunities and bring unique perspectives to the national economic conversation. They work on-the-ground with entrepreneurs, SMEs, not-for-profits, communities, post-secondary institutions, and other levels of government to accelerate growth and build economic resilience.

Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED)

CED supports long-term economic development in Quebec by focusing on the competitiveness of SMEs (innovation, productivity) and the vitality of communities (growth conditions and diversification). CED pays particular attention to regions in Quebec with lower growth potential and promotes complementarity and cooperation with the Government of Quebec, communities, and various economic stakeholders.

Leadership

  • Sony Perron, Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Deputy Minister and President of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec

Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)

CanNor is mandated to help build diverse and dynamic economies across Nunavut, the Northwest Territories, and the Yukon, fostering long-term sustainability and prosperity in the North. Based in Iqaluit, and with offices in Yellowknife, Whitehorse, and Ottawa, CanNor plays a key role as an investor, advocate, convenor, and pathfinder to facilitate the growth of resilient and competitive businesses, the creation of high-quality jobs, and the development of a skilled workforce. CanNor's work also helps to close the North's infrastructure gap, promote sustainable resource development, advance reconciliation with the North's Indigenous people, and secure Arctic sovereignty.

Leadership

  • Jimi Onalik, President and Deputy Minister

Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan)

PacifiCan supports economic development for British Columbians, helping to build a strong and resilient economy in both British Columbia and across Canada, by bringing together local and national insights and through delivery of investment programs and supporting services in each of B.C.'s unique economic regions. Through relationships and insight on-the-ground, PacifiCan works at pace to deliver the Government's economic agenda in ways that will lead to enduring benefit for British Columbians and all Canadians.

Leadership

  • Naina Sloan, President and Deputy Minister

Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan)

PrairiesCan supports economic growth in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. PrairiesCan is a business-centric organization with a mandate to grow and diversify the Prairie economy and advance Prairie interests in Ottawa, with programs and services to help businesses grow, communities develop, and Prairie businesses commercialize and adopt technology.

Leadership

  • Diane Gray, President and Deputy Minister

Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor)

FedNor is the Government of Canada's economic development organization for Northern Ontario. Through a regionally tailored approach to program and service delivery and a strengthened role as an advisor, pathfinder and convenor, FedNor works with businesses and community partners to create jobs and build a stronger Northern Ontario. FedNor services 12 Census Divisions in Northern Ontario from Deep River/Muskoka/Parry Sound up to Northwestern Ontario.

Leadership

  • Valerie Gideon, President and Deputy Minister

Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario)

FedDev Ontario is mandated to strengthen southern Ontario's economic capacity for innovation, economic development, and growth. Through regionally tailored programs, advisory services and strategic collaboration, FedDev Ontario supports the growth of key industry sectors, businesses, and not-for-profit organizations to build a globally competitive southern Ontario economy.

Leadership

  • Nancy Gardiner, President and Deputy Minister

Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

ACOA creates opportunities for economic growth by helping businesses become more productive and competitive, working with communities to develop and diversify local economies, and championing the growth potential of the Atlantic region. ACOA is the face of the federal government in Atlantic Canada, with a solid on-the-ground presence, strong client relationships and a deep understanding of business and community needs.

Leadership

  • Laura Lee Langley, President and Deputy Minister

Agencies

Agencies are specialized organizations within the ISED Portfolio that deliver distinct mandates, grounded in subject-matter expertise. Each operates with a defined level of independence.

Canadian Space Agency (CSA)

CSA promotes the peaceful use and development of space, advances space science, and ensures that space technologies deliver socio-economic benefits for Canadians. Under the Canadian Space Agency Act, the CSA supports the Minister in coordinating federal space policies and programs, leads space-related R&D and the application of space technologies, promotes the transfer of these technologies to Canadian industry, and encourages the commercial use of space. The CSA also showcases Canadian space capabilities through international collaboration—managing Canada's role on the International Space Station, leading the Canadian Lunar Program, and participating in planetary exploration and space-based astronomy, including the James Webb Space Telescope.

Leadership

  • Lisa Campbell, President

Statistics Canada (StatsCan)

StatsCan is an independent, arm's-length agency responsible for producing objective, high-quality statistical information about the commercial, industrial, financial, social, economic, environmental, and general activities and conditions of Canadians. The agency operates under the authority of the Statistics Act, including to protect the confidentiality and privacy of the information it collects. Statistics Canada fulfills two main roles. First, it provides statistical information and analysis to support the development and evaluation of public policies and programs, and to improve decision-making across both the public and private sectors. Second, it promotes sound statistical standards and practices by using common concepts and classifications, collaborating with provinces and territories to enhance data quality and coherence, reducing the burden on respondents through data sharing agreements, and advancing statistical methods and systems through joint research initiatives.

Leadership

  • André Loranger, Chief Statistician of Canada

Federal Research Councils

Federal Research Councils are specialized organizations that support research and innovation across various disciplines, and operate with a focused mandate and scientific expertise, reporting directly to the Minister.

National Research Council (NRC)

The NRC enables research and innovation in Canada by advancing scientific knowledge, applying cutting-edge technologies, and collaborating with partners to develop sustainable solutions to the country's economic, social, and environmental challenges. This includes supporting public policy through scientific research, co-locating researchers and equipment with academic and industry partners, and stewarding national scientific functions such as Canada's astronomical observatories, the National Building Code, and measurement standards for weight and time. The NRC also expands Canadian research capacity by forming national and international partnerships and offering training opportunities to the next generation of scientists. The NRC supports innovation by helping Canadian businesses reduce R&D risks through access to specialized expertise and facilities, funding and guidance through its Industrial Research Assistance Program and contributing scientific knowledge and technological expertise to support government mandates.

Leadership

  • Mitch Davies, President

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)

NSERC is the federal agency responsible for promoting and supporting research and training in the natural sciences and engineering (NSE), excluding health sciences, and advising the responsible Minister on related matters. NSERC invests approximately $1.2 billion annually through grants, scholarships, and fellowships, funding curiosity-driven, interdisciplinary, industry-focused, and high-risk/high-reward, research projects. NSERC plays a key role in strengthening Canada's innovation ecosystem by fostering research that connects academia with the private, public, and non-profit sectors. These partnerships help organizations access new ideas, talent, and technologies, while improving Canadians' quality of life. NSERC also promotes international collaboration to enhance research impact and outcomes. Through its support for students and trainees, NSERC helps cultivate Canada's next generation of innovators, while promoting the value of science, engineering, and discovery to inspire youth and build a world-class research community ready to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Leadership

  • Dr. Alejandro Adem, President

Social Science and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC)

SSHRC is the federal agency mandated to promote and support research and training in the social sciences and humanities (SSH), and to advise the responsible Minister on related matters. SSHRC invests approximately $445 million annually through grants, scholarships, and fellowships to train the next generation of creative thinkers, and drive the innovations needed to address challenges. In addition to its core programs, SSHRC administers tri-agency investments of over $1 billion on behalf of the three federal granting councils. SSHRC also hosts the Canada Research Coordinating Committee secretariat and leads joint priorities like international collaboration, research training, and support for early career researchers. It plays a leading role in advancing Indigenous-led research and collaborates with federal departments and sectoral stakeholders to align research funding with government priorities.

Leadership

  • Dr. Ted Hewitt, President

Crown Corporations

Crown corporations are independent public entities established by the government to deliver services or pursue public policy objectives at arm's length. While they operate with autonomy, the Chairperson of the Board reports directly to the Minister.

Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)

BDC is mandated to support Canadian entrepreneurship by providing financing, investment capital, and advisory services to higher-risk small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through its core business lines: BDC Financing; BDC Capital; and BDC Advisory Services. As Canada's most active venture capital investor, BDC fills market gaps, expands access to financing for underserved entrepreneurs, and fosters innovation in key sectors, while also playing a countercyclical role during economic downturns. BDC is a key partner in delivering Government of Canada initiatives under the direction of its Designated Minister, including the Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative, the Indigenous Growth Fund, the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, and the Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund.

Leadership

  • Brian O'Neil, Chair of the Board of Directors
  • Isabelle Hudon, President and Chief Executive Officer

Destination Canada (DC)

DC, legally known as the Canadian Tourism Commission, is mandated to foster a vibrant and profitable Canadian tourism industry by marketing Canada internationally and facilitating cooperation across government and the private sector to promote Canadian tourism. DC focuses its marketing efforts on nine key international markets where Canada's tourism presence is strong and where there is significant growth potential. For 2025, these markets include the United Kingdom, France, Germany, China, Mexico, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and the United States. Additionally, DC promotes Canada as a top destination for business events, conferences, and meetings, with a particular focus on attracting high-value events through the International Convention Attraction Fund, launched in March 2024. DC conducts extensive research and provides valuable data through the Canadian Tourism Data Collective, while also contributing to destination development initiatives like the Tourism Corridor Strategy.

Leadership

  • The Honourable Liza Frulla, P.C., C.M., O.Q., Chair of the Board of Directors
  • Marsha Walden, President and Chief Executive Officer

Standards Council of Canada (SCC)

SCC promotes the participation of Canadians in voluntary standards activities and public–private sector cooperation in relation to voluntary standardization in Canada. It coordinates and oversees the efforts of the persons and organizations involved in the National Standards System. SCC also fosters quality, performance and technological innovation in Canadian goods and services through standards-related activities. It also develops standards-related strategies and long-term objectives. The Council has oversight for the operations of SCC, and while the Chief Executive Officer has responsibility for SCC's day-to-day operations.

Leadership

  • François Coallier, Chair of SCC Governing Council
  • Chantal Guay, Chief Executive Officer

Quasi-Judicial Tribunals

Quasi-judicial tribunals are specialized bodies mandated to make decisions and hear appeals independently and at arm's length from the government, in accordance with quasi-judicial processes.

Competition Tribunal (CT)

CT has jurisdiction over all applications made under Parts VII.1 and VIII of the Competition Act and related matters, including references filed under section 124.2 of the Act. Part VII.1 addresses deceptive marketing practices (sections 74.01 to 74.19), while Part VIII deals with restrictive trade practices, such as refusal to supply, price maintenance, exclusive dealing, tied selling, market restriction, abuse of dominant position, and mergers. The CT's proceedings are handled informally and expeditiously, balancing fairness with efficiency. The Competition Bureau investigates complaints and decides whether to file applications with the Competition Tribunal. The CT is composed of up to six judicial members, selected from Federal Court judges, and up to eight lay members. All proceedings before the CT are conducted with a focus on fairness and speed, in accordance with the circumstances of each case.

Leadership

  • Justice Andrew D. Little, Chairperson

Copyright Board of Canada (CBC)

CBC is an independent administrative tribunal and economic regulator established under the Copyright Act. Its mandate includes approving tariffs for content managed by collective societies, granting licenses for works when the right holders cannot be found, and providing arbitration in cases where collective societies and users cannot agree on royalties. Decisions by the CBC must be fair, equitable, and timely, based on sound legal and economic principles, while considering evolving technologies, models, and the public interest. CBC is responsible for approving tariffs for the use of musical works, sound recordings, and public performances by entities such as television stations, satellite radio, online music services, and hospitality businesses. It also sets tariffs for the use of literary works by educational institutions and governments, as well as the retransmission of works embedded in distant television and radio signals. Additionally, CBC resolves disputes over royalties between users and collective societies and establishes rules for granting non-exclusive licenses when the copyright owner cannot be located.

Leadership

  • Justice Martineau, Part-Time Chair
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