2023–24 Departmental Plan

2023–24 Departmental Plan (PDF, 653 KB)

Table of contents

• From the Ministers
• Plans at a glance
  • Core Responsibilities: planned results and resources, and key risks
    • People, Skills and Communities
    • Science, Technology, Research and Commercialization
    • Companies, Investment and Growth
  • Internal services: planned results
    • Description
    • Planned budgetary spending for internal services
    • Planned human resources for internal services
• Planned spending and human resources
  • Planned spending
  • Planned human resources
  • Estimates by vote
  • Future-oriented condensed statement of operations
• Corporate information
  • Organizational profile
  • Raison d'être, mandate and role: who we are and what we do
  • Operating context
  • Reporting framework
• Supporting information on the program inventory
• Supplementary information tables
• Federal tax expenditures
• Organizational contact information
• Appendix: definitions

From the Ministers

In 2023–24, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) will continue working with the ISED Portfolio and other federal partners to position Canada as a global innovation leader by fostering competitive, sustainable and inclusive growth. The 2023–24 Departmental Plan lays out the key priorities the Department is working to advance for the benefit of all Canadians.

In an increasingly digital and green economy, ISED and its Portfolio will devote considerable resources to ensure Canada is at the forefront of these markets. For example, a digital presence is essential for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that want to continue growing and expanding their markets in a globalized and digital economy. Therefore, ISED will continue to foster and accelerate the digital transformation of Canadian SMEs through the Canadian Digital Adoption Program, which will provide financial and mentorship support to help them adopt e-commerce technologies. Through its two streams, eligible businesses can gain access to financial support and mentorship to develop their e-commerce capabilities, while mature businesses can also benefit from support to implement technology and boost their competitiveness.

ISED will also contribute to Canada becoming a leader in current and future industries by supporting a net-zero economy that will create well-paying jobs for Canadians. The Strategic Innovation Fund's (SIF) Net Zero Accelerator will continue to support key anchor investments to decarbonize and transform Canadian industry, while developing new clean technologies as we work to meet Canada's 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets and its 2050 net zero emissions goal. ISED will also work to build on Canada's competitive advantage in the fields of critical minerals, batteries and electric vehicle manufacturing.

Other industries benefitting from SIF's support of research, development and commercialization of cutting-edge technologies and processes include aerospace, biomanufacturing, quantum technologies, semiconductors and beyond.

Over the past five years, each of the Global Innovation Clusters has been creating favourable conditions for ambitious technological innovation and job creation by bringing together small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), large firms, researchers, governments, and not-for-profits. Building on their success to date, the clusters are now entering a new phase as they look to position Canada well for the future economy and global markets. Budget 2022 reconfirmed Canada's commitment to the clusters with an additional investment of $750 million through to 2028, to support the further growth and development of Canada's Global Innovation Clusters.

The clusters have deployed a collaborative ecosystem approach to deliver innovative solutions and drive competitive advantage in digital technologies, plant-based protein industries, next-generation manufacturing, artificial intelligence and supply chain logistics, and the ocean economy.

As a foundational element of the innovation ecosystem, ISED will continue to play an important role in funding scientific research across the country. In 2023–24, the Strategic Science Fund, a joint initiative with Health Canada, will increase the quality of scientific research in Canada, attract more world-class research talent and accelerate the use of this research to improve the lives of Canadians.

ISED will also continue its collaboration with the granting agencies, the Canada Foundation for Innovation and Health Canada in support of Canadian researchers and their important work. In addition, the Department and Portfolio will work with colleagues in Canada's Health Portfolio to advance Canada's Biomanufacturing and Life Sciences Strategy, which is protecting Canadians against future health threats and growing a strong and resilient domestic biomanufacturing and life sciences sector.

As the economy continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses are facing new challenges like rising costs and labour shortages. In response, ISED will continue providing crucial support to entrepreneurs and small businesses across the country by facilitating financing, advice and mentorship, internships and collaborations. In addition, through initiatives like the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy, the Black Entrepreneurship Program and Futurpreneur, the Department is working to ensure that Canada's business landscape reflects the diversity of the country.

ISED will also lead the Rural Economic Development Strategy, a long-term plan to build stronger and more vibrant rural communities from coast-to-coast-to-coast. The Department will continue to work closely with our provincial and Indigenous partners in rural communities across Canada to build on existing investments and identify opportunities for future programs or investments. For example, in 2023–24, through the Universal Broadband Fund, ISED will continue to fund projects to bring high-speed Internet to all Canadians, including those in rural and remote communities. We continue to be on target to reach our goal of ensuring every Canadian has access to high-speed Internet by 2030.

Finally, as an economic driver for communities across the country, Canada's tourism sector is showing strong signs of growth. To that end, ISED will continue to support Canada's tourism industry with targeted investments as it moves from survival to revival following the COVID-19 pandemic, while finalizing and implementing the new Federal

Tourism Growth Strategy. A fully recovered and robust tourism sector is key to this Government's ongoing work in building an economy that works for all Canadians.

Together with Canadians of all backgrounds, generations, and in every corner of the country, we are building a strong culture of innovation to prepare Canada for the economy of the future.

To that end, we are pleased to present the 2023–24 Departmental Plan for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.

Plans at a glance

In 2023–24, ISED will continue to foster economic conditions to support Canadians and Canadian businesses to recover from the pandemic, grow and thrive on the global stage.

Ensuring an inclusive economy is key to fully leveraging Canada's competitive advantage. The Department will encourage people and communities from all segments of society to cultivate essential skills to be competitive, as well as start and grow their businesses. Entrepreneurs from underrepresented groups, such as women, continue to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, ISED will continue to help women start and grow their businesses through growth and financing initiatives under the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES). Furthermore, the Department will offer financing and access to capital via the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund and the Inclusive Women Venture Capital Initiative.

In 2023–24, ISED will continue supporting the Black Entrepreneurship Program to address systemic barriers for Black entrepreneurs, by providing funding and advisory services as well as other key support for their growth. Implementation of the 50 – 30 Challenge will remain a priority for ISED, as the Department looks to support Canadian organizations to increase diversity of their boards and management teams.

In the current digital economy, access to reliable and high-speed internet is essential for Canadians and Canadian businesses to participate fully in society. To this end, ISED will continue to support the Government's commitment to deliver fast and reliable internet to rural and remote communities, via the implementation of the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF).

Canadians could become more competitive if they have access to devices and further their talent and skills to prepare for emerging industries. During 2023–24, ISED will maintain efforts to deliver computer equipment and other electronic devices to schools, libraries, non-profits organizations, Indigenous communities and low-income Canadians through the Computers for Schools Plus (CFS+) program. The Department will also continue to provide training opportunities for underrepresented groups through programs such as the Digital Literacy Exchange Program (DLEP) and Canadian youth through the CanCode program.

Canadian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of our economy, and access to funding remains a key driver to their success. In this context, ISED will continue to create funding opportunities for Canadian SMEs to start, expand and innovate their businesses, through key programs such as the Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP). In addition, supporting the transition to doing business online is key for ensuring Canadian businesses remain competitive. In 2023–24, ISED will maintain funding opportunities for SMEs by providing funding and expert advice on available technologies, including setting up e-commerce platforms to expand their reach and potential markets.

To further support businesses, ISED will continue to help them connect to the most relevant government programs through the Business Benefits Finder Program. The Department will also collaborate across governments to help Canadian businesses grow by continuing to advance the Accelerated Growth Service (AGS).

Leveraging industry strengths help foster a more competitive Canadian economy. In 2023–24, the Department will continue to deliver the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF), which aims to foster innovation and ensure the long-term sustainability of Canadian businesses. The Department will endeavour to support critical minerals projects, with the priority given to advanced manufacturing, processing, and recycling applications. Furthermore, ISED will keep rolling out the Net Zero Accelerator (NZA) initiative that supports Canada's net zero goals to help transform the economy for clean and long term growth. ISED will keep supporting for the implementation of a modern and reliable telecommunication network. The Department will maintain investments in research to ongoing improvements and modernization of spectrum management, in addition to aiming to ensure wireless connectivity.

In 2023–24, The Department will foster the scientific and research ecosystems across Canada on an ongoing basis. Supporting Canadian research excellence helps enable Canadian researchers and businesses to make scientific and innovative advancements. ISED will aim to maintain efforts to create opportunities for partnerships and collaboration between private, public and academic sectors. The Department will also continue to support research and development of key rising sectors, like artificial intelligence and quantum computing, through the ongoing implementation of the Pan- Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy and the National Quantum Strategy.

Furthermore, ISED will collaborate with Health Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada, the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) and the granting agencies, and beyond in the ongoing implementation of the Biomanufacturing and Life Sciences Strategy, which will help grow a strong and competitive domestic life sciences sector in Canada, and ensure Canada's readiness for future pandemics or other health emergencies. This includes work to ensure Canada leads in important areas of research, development, and commercialization of life science innovations, including through expanded capacity to produce critical vaccines and therapeutics in Canada.

For more information on ISED's plans, see the "Core Responsibilities: planned results and resources, and key risks" section of this Plan.

Core Responsibilities: planned results and resources, and key risks

People, Skills and Communities

Description

Support the creation, transfer and diffusion of knowledge to ensure that Canadians, including underrepresented individuals: are equipped with the skills and tools to participate in an innovative, high-growth economy; advance a culture of innovation where Canadians are motivated to address local, regional, national and/or global challenges; benefit from growth of the middle class across communities; have increased access to affordable broadband and mobile Internet, including in rural and remote regions; and are protected and informed consumers.

Planning highlights

Departmental Result: People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy

One of ISED's ongoing priorities is to shape a more resilient and inclusive Canadian economy by encouraging people and communities from all segments of Canadian society to participate in emerging employment and business opportunities and ensuring they have the digital connectivity and skills to do so. To achieve this, ISED will continue to foster a culture of inclusivity in businesses that is focused on empowering traditionally underrepresented groups as Canada proceeds from economic recovery to growth and prosperity.

Facilitate participation of underrepresented groups in the economy

Various groups, including women, youth and Indigenous people, are underrepresented in the Canadian entrepreneurship landscape. Often this is due to barriers beyond their control, including difficulty accessing financing or a lack of opportunities for mentorship. ISED's programs work to break down these barriers and help Canadians from equity- deserving groups start and grow businesses wherever they live across the country.

In 2023–24, the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES) will continue to facilitate access to financing, networks, mentorship and business support for women entrepreneurs across Canada. The WES Ecosystem Fund received $65 million in additional funding through Budget 2021 to further address these gaps. In January 2022, one call for proposals (valued at $25 million) was launched targeting women-focused organizations that had not previously received WES funding. A second call for proposals was also issued and aims to distribute $40 million over the years 2023–24 and 2024–25 to support new projects contributing to business development and growth, as well as those in areas of strength for women entrepreneurs, such as the care economy and retail and service sectors. The second call also prioritized projects that provide services to women entrepreneurs in rural and remote areas and the North.

Other supports for women entrepreneurs include the $55 million Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund, which provides affordable financing in the form of loans of up to $50,000. The WES Inclusive Women Venture Capital Initiative, meanwhile, aims to strengthen the capacity of women entrepreneurs by improving access to venture capital funding; increasing women representation in the VC industry; and ensuring the industry is more sensitive to gender and unconscious bias in their operations. Along with continuing to lead a steering committee to coordinate implementation of initiatives supporting women entrepreneurs under the WES, ISED will also develop a financial sector voluntary code of conduct which will support initiatives aimed towards the inclusion of women and other underrepresented entrepreneurs.

Additionally, ISED will continue funding the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) for the sixth year, a one stop source of knowledge, data and best practices for women entrepreneurs. The WEKH is helping to identify knowledge gaps on how to best support women entrepreneurs as the economy continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and to develop best practices among women entrepreneurs with a focus on critical areas such as financing, procurement, and market development and trade. The WEKH will continue to play a central role in strengthening the networks among business support organizations for women and publish an annual report on the state of women's entrepreneurship to determine the health of the women entrepreneurship ecosystem in Canada.

Through the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP), ISED will continue to address systemic barriers for Black entrepreneurs. Launched in May 2021, the BEP, along with the Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund, BEP Ecosystem Fund and Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub will provide financial support, advisory service and develop prosperous conditions for economic equality for Black entrepreneurs. The Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund, in partnership with the Federation of African Canadian Economics and the Business Development Bank of Canada, will support Black business owners and entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses through loans of up to $250,000.

Young Canadians are also underrepresented as entrepreneurs and often face challenges in securing financing for their businesses. ISED will continue to support programs such as Futurpreneur Canada to help ensure young Canadian entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are equipped with the appropriate skills and tools to participate in an innovative economy,. The program supports Canadian entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 39 with the provision of loans of up to $20,000 and business planning support services. In 2023–24, along with providing mentorship to 1,000 youth through its Startup program, Futurpreneur will continue its mission, which aims to engage 7,250 Indigenous youth in outreach activities and provide an additional 175 indigenous youth access to loans and mentorships services.

Digital technologies are key enablers in promoting more diversity in the Canadian economy. However, SMEs often face barriers to digital adoption including lack of resources, funding and expertise. In addition to this support for entrepreneurs and SMEs, to ensure that everyone across the country can participate in a modern and inclusive economy, ISED will continue to pursue measures to bridge the digital divide by enabling access to and adoption of digital technologies across Canada, including its diverse population groups.

In 2023–24, ISED will continue to promote connectivity and access to high-speed Internet across Canada through the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF). This $3.225 billion program funds broadband infrastructure projects that will introduce 50/10 Megabits per second (Mbps) Internet to rural and remote communities. UBF funding includes up to $50 million for mobile connectivity projects that will primarily benefit Indigenous people and communities, up to $750 million for high-impact projects, and a Rapid Response Stream (RRS) for shovel-ready projects that can connect households immediately.

With additional funding of $475 million received in the fall of 2022, the UBF will be able to connect another 60,000 households to high-speed internet in support of the Government of Canada's goal of connecting 98% of Canadian householders by 2026 and all households by 2030. By working towards greater connectivity across Canada, programs such as the UBF will connect more people to the right resources, services and information. In an effort to further bridge the digital divide, ISED will continue to monitor Telesat's process progress towards the 2026 launch of their Low Earth Orbit satellite constellation (Telesat Lightspeed), which could connect up to 40,000 rural and remote households across Canada.

The Connect to Innovate (CTI) program is also working to overcome barriers in introducing high-speed Internet to rural and remote Canadian communities through investments in high-capacity backbone infrastructure and some last-mile infrastructure for underserved households and anchor institutions. The program expects to come very close to meeting its original target to connect 975 communities (190 Indigenous) and 390,000 households with improved Internet access by March 31, 2023. However, due to delays related to the COVID-19 pandemic some projects are anticipated to be completed throughout 2023–24 given the impact on supply chains, ability to procure materials, difficulty securing land access and extreme weather.

In 2023–24, the Connecting Families Initiative will continue the promotion of digital inclusion, accessibility and internet affordability by facilitating access to low-cost internet plans for hundreds of thousands of Canadian households who need it most. The program, in partnership with participating Internet Service Providers (ISPs), has broadened eligibility beyond low-income families to include low-income seniors who will receive the maximum Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) benefit. A new, significantly improved service offering with 50/10 Mbps speeds has also been introduced for $20 per month, along with the previous package (10/1 Mbps) at $10 per month.

In addition to improved internet access, ISED also works to ensure Canadians have access to the devices required to participate online. The Computers for Schools Plus (CFS+) initiative provides access to technology and computer equipment for Canadians in communities across Canada. The national-based network refurbishes and delivers computer equipment and electronic devices to schools, libraries, non-profits, Indigenous communities and low-income Canadians. Each year, CFS+ sets a target of delivering 70,000 ready-to-use computers, which it expects to achieve over the course of 2023–24 and 2024–25.

Following its renewal for $17.6 million in Budget 2022, the Digital Literacy Exchange Program (DLEP) will provide digital literacy training to 100,000 underrepresented Canadians by 2025. The program will equip Canadians with the skills and confidence to participate in the digital economy, particularly focusing on equity-deserving groups such as Indigenous people, persons living with disabilities, seniors, individuals who have not completed high school as well as individuals who do not speak English or French at home.

The Accessible Technology Program (ATP), renewed for $5.8 million in 2022, co-funds the development of affordable, innovative, assistive and adaptive devices, a digital technologies to help Canadians with disabilities overcome barriers that come in the way of their full participation in the workplace and digital society. By March 31, 2024, the Accessible Technology Program (ATP) will support five new projects and four commercially available solutions.

Gender-Based Analysis Plus

ISED remains committed to ensuring its programs and key initiatives produce inclusive outcomes and represent the diversity of Canadian society. The Department supports the creation, transfer and diffusion of knowledge to ensure that all Canadians—including underrepresented ones such as women and girls, Indigenous people, youth, Canadians with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ Canadians, and individuals in rural and remote communities- are equipped with the skills, tools and opportunities to participate in an innovative, high-growth economy. For example, Futurpreneur Canada continues to support diverse Canadian entrepreneurs through its flagship programs, in which 40% to 50% of its supported businesses are led by women. Regarding WES, its initiatives, targeting primarily women affected from COVID-19, will address challenges women entrepreneurs face by ensuring greater access to financing, expanding ecosystem supports, creating greater inclusivity within equity investment environment and improving data and research related to women entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the program is working with Statistics Canada to address data gaps in order to improve the granularity of data on women's entrepreneurship in the survey on financing and growth of SMEs.

United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the UN Sustainable Development Goals

ISED is a strong proponent towards Canada's efforts to develop and implement the United Nations (UN) 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While ISED supports all 17 SDGs, ISED's mandate, programs and initiatives advance action on SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure to "build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation." Under Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy—Canada's whole-of-society approach to realizing the SDGs—ISED is the lead on SDG 9. ISED's programs and initiatives that support this SDG include: Canada's Connectivity Strategy; the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF); Connect to Innovate (CTI); and the Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP). Recognizing the importance of accelerating the transition to a low-carbon, inclusive, clean growth economy, ISED will continue to help Canadians and Canadian businesses embrace sustainability as a core value over the short, medium, and longer term through commitments to develop environmental sustainability plans.

Innovation

ISED will continue to support the use of innovations/experimentation on a small-scale to inform evidence-based decision making on opportunities concerning innovations, and addressing potential uncertainties/risks. In 2023–24, the Department will experiment/test innovations and measure those outcomes in real-world settings in order to enhance its services and programs, especially as part of its broader digital transformation roadmap.

Today, women-owned businesses only receive 2.8% of venture capital (VC) funding available worldwide, and an estimated 4% of VC funding in Canada. In the context of WES, the Department will tackle the lack of venture capital (VC) funding towards women-owned business and poor women representation through ISED's $15 million Inclusive Women Venture Capital Initiative. This new initiative will address this lack of representation by making the equity investment environment more inclusive of women and equity deserving groups; strengthen the capacity of Canadian women entrepreneurs to access VC funding and reduce biases in Canada's VC industry.

Key risks

An efficient digital infrastructure can address the issue of the digital divide, which separates those able to access computers and the internet and those who are without. Broadband internet access continues to be fragmented across Canada, with access based largely on location and affordability. Given the current supply chain challenges, equipment and labour shortages, and inflation, coupled with the complexity of broadband infrastructure projects and unforeseen weather, climatic and environmental factors, there is a risk that projects aimed at bridging Canada's digital divide, particularly in rural and remote areas, could take longer than anticipated, thereby limiting full participation in the digital economy for some Canadians.

ISED will continue to mitigate these risks through appropriate and tailored project planning. For example, all UBF projects are required to consider resiliency in their network design and construction. ISED program officers and engineers assess the technical merit of projects on this basis and monitor them throughout the implementation phase. Additionally, ISED will work closely with recipients to ensure that they do not miss key milestones that would jeopardize the overall success of their projects by, for example, providing them with key tools and processes to support efficient and effective project development.

Bridging the digital divide also necessitates access to the literacy and skills required to participate in the digital economy. There is a risk that ISED's programs targeting digital literacy and skills development may be unable to keep pace with the rapid technological advancements and shifting business models. Work must continue to ensure that Canadians are equipped with the digital skills of the future, including knowledge of coding, data analytics, AI, and machine learning. To mitigate this risk, Budget 2021 announced funding over ten years, and ongoing, for the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy. As part of this strategy, the Digital Research Alliance of Canada (DRAC) was provided with funding to assist with the acquisition and operation of dedicated computing infrastructure for AI Institute-affiliated researchers in an effort to address the insufficient amount of computing resources to support AI research in Canada and improve the availability of compute infrastructure and services.

Planned results for People, Skills and Communities

The financial, human resources and performance information for the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) program inventory is available on GC InfoBase.

Planned budgetary spending for People, Skills and Communities

Planned spending reflects current funding approvals and includes new temporary funding announced in Budget 2022 mainly for the Universal Broadband Fund. It also includes renewed temporary funding for the Accessible Technology Development Program and Digital Literacy Exchange Program. Possible program renewals or extensions are subject to future Government budget decisions.

Financial, human resources and performance information for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) program inventory is available on GC InfoBase.

Planned human resources for People, Skills and Communities

Financial, human resources and performance information for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) program inventory is available on GC InfoBase.

Science, Technology, Research and Commercialization

Description

Support and enable business–led investment and strategic collaborations for leading- edge technology development and commercialization; maintain and strengthen Canada's research excellence, including support for fundamental science, experimentation and exploration to address global challenges.

Planning highlights

Departmental Result: Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer

A strong research and experimentation ecosystem among both businesses and academic institutions fuels a growing and innovative economy. To foster such an ecosystem, ISED supports a wide range of institutions as they work to make breakthroughs in important fields such as genomics, quantum computing and artificial for intelligence. Because this research can take many years before it is commercially applicable, it can be difficult for scientists and researchers to secure private sector funding for their work. Therefore, ISED plays a key role in funding this research and experimentation and encouraging support from businesses, as well as fostering collaborations between the private and public sectors and academic institutions.

Strengthen domestic and international research coordination and collaboration

Launched in August 2021, the Strategic Science Fund (SSF) aims to mobilize the expertise and resources of independent third-party science and research organizations to enhance Canada's science, technology and innovation excellence. SSF investments will address areas critical to the health, economic and social well-being of Canadians. In 2023–24 the SSF will negotiate contribution agreements with the individual recipients deemed meritorious through its inaugural competition. Initial disbursements will begin in early 2024–25 for the program's initial five-year funding cycle.

In 2023‒24, ISED will continue to monitor and support the ongoing implementation of the Digital Research Infrastructure (DRI) Strategy, which supports two programs: Digital Research Alliance of Canada (DRAC) and CANARIE (Canada's Advanced Research and Innovation Network). DRAC is responsible for the continued development and implementation of a national vision for advanced research computing, research data management, and research software, including investing in a nationally coordinated DRI ecosystem that leverages federal, provincial, institutional and private- sector funding. Work will focus on overseeing a renewed contribution agreement with DRAC to implement a funding proposal that supports DRAC's strategic priorities related to advanced research computing, data management, and research software.

In 2023–24, ISED will continue to support CANARIE by providing funding for initiatives such as the expansion and maintenance of the National Research and Education Network (NREN), an essential collective of research infrastructure, tools and people to bolster Canadian research leadership; development and implementation of next- generation technology innovation, innovation and commercialization of products and services through the Digital Accelerator for Innovation and Research (DAIR) program; and funding for a Cybersecurity Initiatives Program to support an enhanced cybersecurity posture in post-secondary institutions.

Furthermore, ISED will continue to support the coordination and delivery of $40M in funding announced in Budget 2021 to provide dedicated computing capacity for artificial intelligence researchers. ISED is providing funds to DRAC towards the planning, procurement, installation, operation and allocation of computing infrastructure to increase computing capacity for artificial intelligence researchers as part of the Pan- Canadian AI Strategy.

In 2023–24, ISED's support for the National Artificial Intelligence Institutes will be focused on activities that support the growth in capacity of Canadian businesses and other organizations to develop, adopt, use, apply, or commercialize AI. Through these activities, funding recipients are expected to: accelerate the translation of AI research into commercial or other innovations; grow the capacity of Canadian businesses, not- for-profit organizations, health providers including hospitals, or other public corporations and agencies to develop, adopt, use, or commercialize AI; and encourage the responsible development and use of AI based in human rights, inclusion, diversity, innovation and economic growth.

ISED's support for the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) will continue to foster advanced and future-focused research, professional development of emerging early-career researchers, and the mobilization of knowledge created by advanced and future-focused research. As well, under the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy (PCAIS), CIFAR will support interconnected nodes of scientific excellence in Canada's three major centres for AI in Edmonton, Montreal and Toronto; and develop global thought leadership on the economic, ethical, policy and legal implications of advances in AI.

Quantum technologies are at the cutting edge of science and innovation, leading to breakthroughs in fields as diverse as high-performance computing, mineral exploration, communications security and battery technology. Therefore, ISED will continue the implementation of the National Quantum Strategy (NQS), which seeks to amplify Canada's significant strength in quantum research, and to grow quantum-ready technologies, companies and talent. Similarly, ISED's contribution to the Institute for Quantum Computing will support activities focused on performing research, research translation, training, and outreach to strengthen Canada's position in quantum research.

ISED will also work towards the launch of a new national lab-to-market platform announced in Budget 2022 to help students and researchers at post-secondary institutions take their work to market, as well as the launch of a new survey with Statistics Canada to assess knowledge mobilization at Canada's universities, colleges and research institutes.

ISED's ongoing funding for the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics will help increase knowledge in the various strands of theoretical physics; attract and retain emerging researchers in physics; and enhance the literacy and interest of students, teachers, and the Canadian public in science and, in particular, physics.

As it falls under the purview of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry mandate letter, ISED will continue its support to the Chief Science Advisor (CSA) in their work to bolster the capacity and increase the coordination of the use of science across government.

Strengthening Canada's bio-manufacturing and life sciences sector

In 2023–24, ISED will continue its work to implement Canada's Biomanufacturing and Life Sciences Strategy (Strategy), in collaboration with Health Canada. The Strategy was launched in summer 2021, and includes investments and activities associated with five action areas to enhance Canada's preparedness for pandemics and other health emergencies and grow a strong, competitive domestic life sciences sector.

To realize the Strategy's goals, in 2023–24, ISED will continue to work closely with colleagues in Canada's Health Portfolio to ensure a common approach that takes into consideration the most pressing public health needs, as well as the most promising technologies and innovative health products. ISED will continue to exercise leadership in growing domestic innovation and industrial capabilities that will support Canadian and global health preparedness, including for pandemic response. This will include continuing to support promising life science companies through the Strategic Innovation Fund.

ISED will also continue its collaboration with the granting agencies, the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) and Health Canada in the governance of tri-agency research programs and other initiatives to achieve Canada's vision for a world-leading research enterprise that advances the social, cultural and economic well-being of all Canadians. ISED will also continue to participate in and support the Canada Research Coordinating Committee (CRCC) in its mandate to achieve greater harmonization and coordination of the policies and programs of the granting agencies and the CFI.

In addition, ISED will work closely with the CFI as the Foundation administers ongoing programming and launches new competitions that address the research infrastructure needs of Canadian researchers, including the Biosciences Research Infrastructure Fund, as part of the Strategy.

Budget 2021 announced $399.7 million over six years, starting in 2021–22 to launch a Pan-Canadian Genomics Strategy (PCGS). A joint secretariat in ISED and the National Research Council is leading the development of the strategy. In May and June 2022, key stakeholders were consulted on the themes of ecosystem coordination, data, adoption, commercialization and talent, through a series of invitational roundtables, as well as the broader community and general public through a public web survey. In 2023–24, a 'What We Heard' report summarizing the consultation will be published.

In 2023‒24 ISED will continue to monitor and support the ongoing implementation of contributions to Genome Canada, including the Budget 2021 announcement of $136.7 million in funding. Genome Canada's work in 2023‒24 will include a shift to mission driven programming, continuing its research funding activities, translating research to outcomes that generate benefits for Canadians, and coordination with ISED as part of the Pan-Canadian Genomics Strategy.

In 2023‒24, ISED will monitor and support the ongoing implementation of the Budget 2021 announcement of $92 million in funding for adMare BioInnovations as part of the Biomanufacturing and Life Science Strategy. adMare will support company creation, scale-up, and training activities in the life science sector. adMare will also provide seed funding and series investment to early stage Canadian companies in the life science sector, as well as access to biomanufacturing training programs as the lead national partner for the Canadian Alliance for Skills and Training in Life Sciences (CASTL).

In 2023‒24, ISED will also monitor and support the ongoing implementation of the Budget 2021 announcement of $45 million for the Stem Cell Network (SCN) to renew funding and expand the reach of its activities to include regenerative medicine. As part of the Biomanufacturing and Life Science Strategy, SCN's work in 2023‒24 will include translating regenerative medicine therapies and technologies to commercialization through funded research competitions and collaborations, and ensuring Canada has the talent and skills to build its strength in regenerative medicine through knowledge mobilization, networking, training and outreach.

Gender-Based Analysis Plus

In 2023–24, ISED will remain committed to ensure its program implementation and key initiatives produce more positive and inclusive outcomes for women and underrepresented groups. The Department supports the creation, transfer and diffusion of knowledge to ensure that all Canadians—including underrepresented ones such as women, Indigenous people, youth, Canadians with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ groups, and individuals in rural and remote communities—are equipped with the skills, tools and opportunities to participate in an innovative, high-growth economy.

The Department will continue to support funding for various STIn research and institutions, such as the Perimeter Institute and the Institute for Quantum Computing, undertaking innovative work for the benefit of Canadians. The Perimeter Institute, for example, will implement a number of initiatives that will promote greater gender parity in theoretical physics and related STEM fields in Canada. This includes its Simons Emmy Noether Fellows program, which offers tailored individual fellowship opportunities to early- and mid-career women researchers; hosting outreach events that encourage participation of women in physics; and striving to achieve a gender balance amongst participants in their outreach activities, namely the International Summer School for Young Physicists. As quantum computing is a field traditionally dominated by men, the Institute for Quantum Computing is making efforts towards increasing female participation in their training activities, sponsoring programming for women and girls in education activities, such as the Canadian Conference for Undergraduate Women in Physics, and providing greater networking opportunities for female researchers.

Furthermore, the Stem Cell Network will continue efforts in reducing any potential gender biases in their research aware selection process and training programs considering 55% of SCN trainees since 2001 have been women.

Regarding diverse representation in governance, the Digital Research Infrastructure (DRI) Contribution Program requires that recipients maintain governance with diverse representation. Specifically, the Digital Research Alliance of Canada (DRAC) must ensure that half its Board of Directors and other governance bodies are composed of women. With ISED, DRAC will continue to participate in the "50-30 Challenge", which aspires towards gender parity ("50%") and significant representation ("30%") of under- represented groups, including racialized persons, people living with disabilities and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, in Canadian senior management and Boards. Additionally, CANARIE strives to maintain a gender balance of between 40% and 60% for its Board and its committees.

ISED programs will be applying a GBA Plus lens through the implementation of an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Framework. Programs will incorporate EDI requirements to promote the participation of underrepresented groups in operations, activities, and network governance, particularly in the selection committees for projects and the composition of Boards and senior management. The goal will be to identify and remove any barriers for underrepresented groups with regards to operations, governance, funding, stakeholder management and training activities. EDI will be an essential component in ensuring underrepresented groups, particularly women and girls, receive equitable access and allocation of resources.

United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the UN Sustainable Development Goals

For details on ISED's contribution to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, refer to the core responsibilities People, Skills and Communities, and Companies, Investment and Growth.

Key risks

Canada's open and collaborative approach to research is essential for innovation— partnerships between researchers, companies and research institutions have produced world-class scientific discoveries solving some of the country's greatest challenges.

While the vast majority of research partnerships are beneficial to all parties involved, some activities by foreign governments, militaries and other actors pose risks to Canada's national security and integrity of its research ecosystem. Canada's open, collaborative research environment is increasingly targeted by espionage and foreign interference activities. These activities pose threats to the integrity of Canada's research enterprise, as well as the country's national security, long-term economic competitiveness and prosperity.

In light of these risks, ISED, in collaboration with Public Safety Canada (PS), moved to take action to protect Canadian research and intellectual property through the introduction of the National Security Guidelines for Research Partnerships in July 2021, which integrate national security considerations into the development, evaluation, and funding of research partnerships. Researchers, research institutions, federal granting agencies, and the Government of Canada have a shared responsibility to identify and mitigate any potential national security risks related to research partnerships. These Guidelines currently apply on a mandatory basis in the Alliance Program of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada (NSERC). Efforts are ongoing to continue to integrate research security measures into Canada's research ecosystem to ensure that Canada's investments in science and research maximize the benefit to Canada and Canadians.

Planned results for Science, Technology, Research and Commercialization

The financial, human resources and performance information for the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) program inventory is available on GC InfoBase.

Planned budgetary spending for Science, Technology, Research and Commercialization

The variance primarily reflects temporary increases in the approved funding profiles of the Canada Foundation for Innovation and the Digital Research Infrastructure Strategy. Decisions on possible program renewals or extensions are subject to future Government budget processes.

Financial, human resources and performance information for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) program inventory is available on GC InfoBase.

Planned human resources for Science, Technology, Research and Commercialization

Financial, human resources and performance information for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) program inventory is available on GC InfoBase.

Companies, Investment and Growth

Description

Provide support to help grow small, medium and large Canadian businesses into globally competitive, high-impact firms; ensure a fair and competitive marketplace; promote the conditions that support competitive prices and product choices, including in the telecommunications sector; simplify government programming, promote efforts to reduce red tape for businesses, putting in place the right conditions for market-driven innovation and promoting inclusive growth and an economy that works for everyone; reduce barriers to the movement of goods, services, capital and labour; and grow Canada's tourism sector.

Planning Highlights

Departmental Result: Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing

Innovation and adaptation on the part of Canadian enterprises—from start-up to scale- up—are vital to success in job creation, economic productivity, and trade. To energize creativity in support of Canada's economic recovery, growth, and competitiveness, ISED will continue to work closely with entrepreneurs, businesses and industry sectors to build on areas of traditional Canadian advantage while also capitalizing on new emerging opportunities.

Growing Canadian businesses

ISED is committed to supporting Canadian businesses—particularly SMEs—compete in the digital economy.

In 2023–24, ISED will continue to roll-out the Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP), which aims to help SMEs adopt digital technologies to increase their competitiveness.

CDAP will support SMEs by providing funding and expert advice on available technologies, including setting up e-commerce platforms to expand their reach and potential markets. CDAP supports Canadian businesses with the Boost Your Business Technology grant, which provides up to $15,000 towards the cost to get advice and develop a digital plan. SMEs can then apply for a zero-interest loan of up to $100,000 from the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) as well as a wage subsidy up to $7,300 for a youth placement. The Grow your Business Online grant is designed to enable SMEs to adopt digital technologies related to e-commerce by the provision of microgrants of up to $2,400 per business. The program's planned results include continuing awareness building, particularly among equity-deserving groups, and providing resources to Canadian SMEs to support their digital adoption journey.

In 2023–24, ISED will continue to invest in the innovation and development of the Canadian economy and ensure the long-term sustainability of Canadian businesses through the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF). The SIF will accelerate areas of competitive advantage and expand the role of Canadian firms in regional and global supply chains Some planned results include maintaining support for innovative and disruptive projects; fostering partnerships and its whole-of-government approach for technology innovations to benefit all Canadians; and nurturing investment in Canada, jobs, competitiveness and transformation of existing and nascent industries.

ISED's Global Innovation Clusters (GIC) will continue building an accelerated and innovative ecosystem. In 2023–24, the program will leverage increased investment from non-GIC program partners, matching or exceeding $1.50 for every dollar it will commit. Additionally, it expects new collaborations, between private, academic and public sector organizations, as it plans a target of four collaborating partners per project advanced.

The goal is to establish GIC as a driver of growth and catalyst for skills development in Canada. GIC will proactively engage Canadian industries through projects submitted that will impact for instance the automotive, transportation and digital sectors, in order to help provide analytic support and determine gaps and specific policy issues, with also a heavy emphasis on strengthening Canada's semiconductor industry.

The Cyber Security Innovation Network (CSIN) program will support a national network to grow Canada's cyber security ecosystem through academia-industry collaboration. The network will seek to enhance research and development, increase commercialization, and further support the development of skilled cyber security talent across Canada. The National Cybersecurity Consortium (NCC) is the lead recipient of the program and will finalize its governance and management structures and strategic priorities for 2023–24, as well as for subsequent years. It will be responsible for funding initial projects to support the network's objectives.

Helping Businesses Navigate the Various Government Supports

The Accelerated Growth Service (AGS) is a collaborative cross-government client service model to help Canadian businesses and entrepreneurs innovate, grow and scale by providing them with guidance. In 2023–24, AGS will continue to deliver guidance services tailored to clients' needs – either with its Advisory Service that helps businesses find the resources for growth, or with its Growth Service that helps high- growth businesses access the support for scaling up. For companies poised to become Canada's next anchor firms, there is a new scale-up service known as the Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP). GHP will aim to convene the combined strength of its government partners to help tailor support for each participating company's specific needs.

In 2023–24, the Department will continue to improve the Business Benefits Finder, using a client-centric approach, including exploring opportunities to further integrate with other Government of Canada services, to save businesses time in finding programs to meet their needs. The program will primarily connect businesses with government programs at the federal, provincial and territorial levels in order to innovate and develop Canadian businesses.

ISED's National BizPaL Office (NBO), a nationwide intergovernmental service, will also help Canadian businesses find and access business licenses and permits, support Red Tape Reduction, and build new as well as strengthen existing partnerships within all levels of government. BizPaL will also continue supporting SMEs learn about their compliance obligations and ensuring consistent service delivery through an Open Service platform.

During the fiscal year, the Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC) initiative will continue to leverage public procurement to help innovative Canadian SMEs develop and create pathways to commercialize their technologies and services. ISC will launch research and development (R&D) Challenges and Testing Calls for Proposals to support early and late-stage technology development with a heavy emphasis on the Government of Canada's priorities such as the National Quantum Strategy, green procurement and climate change, food security, housing, digital adoption, connectivity and security.

These initiatives will support Canadian SMEs in the development and commercialization of their technology, while also helping partner federal departments and agencies meet their operational priorities.

The Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP) is a statutory program designed to increase the availability of financing for the establishment, expansion, modernization and improvement of small businesses. CSBFP helps Canadian small businesses access financing that would not otherwise be available or would be available only under less favourable terms. In 2023–24, the CSBFP will continue to help Canadian businesses grow and provide government support for SMEs across Canada.

Moreover, ISED will continue to develop the Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative (VCCI), as an effective strategy to anchor innovation in Canada and attract greater investments and attention from the private sector. This program increases the availability of capital for innovative Canadian firms, including those in the life sciences sector and for entrepreneurs from underrepresented groups, to help them scale-up and create high- quality jobs. The Department aims to help our promising ventures to scale up, export and create good jobs in Canada.

In support of Canada's Defence Procurement Strategy, ISED will continue to administer the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy to leverage economic benefits through defence and major Canadian Coast Guard procurements to support job creation and economic growth for Canadians. ISED will also continue the implementation of the National Shipbuilding Strategy Value Proposition (NSS VP) to ensure the long-term sustainability of the greater marine industry; while accruing economic benefits from such investments in fleet modernization.

Supporting a modern telecommunication network

It is essential that Canadians and Canadian businesses across the country have access to affordable, reliable and readily available high-speed Internet, as it is a key pillar of a modern digital economy. To this end, the Department will continue to advance the Telecommunications Reliability Agenda to improve network reliability and better protect Canadians. The Agenda will promote robust networks and systems, strengthen accountability in the telecommunications industry and lead to coordinated planning and preparedness for emergencies such as extreme climate events. As Canada's spectrum regulator, ISED remains committed to supporting the deployment of high-quality wireless services, including in smaller urban centres and rural and remote areas, so that all Canadians can benefit as well as participate in the digital economy.

In 2023–24, ISED will continue to take steps to meet spectrum demand in order to support existing services and the deployment of next generation wireless services such as 5G. More specifically, ISED will hold the 3800 MHz spectrum auction, starting on October 24, 2023, and prepare for the auction of spectrum in the 26, 28, and 38 GHz bands by publishing the Decision on a Policy and Licensing Framework for Spectrum in the 26, 28 and 38 GHz Bands. To support the work of Spectrum Management Officers across Canada related to these new 5G bands, the Department is currently modernizing spectrum measurement and monitoring equipment that is deployed across Canada.

ISED's Communications Research Centre will continue to invest in research and development related to improvements and modernization of the spectrum management program. In 2023–24, the Department will implement its updated research program that will identify opportunities and areas of improvement and to support evidence-based decision making. The Research Centre's activities will include: applying cloud-based machine learning for spectrum management; providing detailed assessments on non- competitive licensing technology in 5G bands and Fixed Wireless Access deployments for the Connecting Canadians program; supporting commercialization of Engineered Electromagnetic Surfaces (EES) technology; evaluating new spectrum sharing techniques; strengthening collaboration opportunities with domestic and international stakeholders; and developing strategic foresight on relevant wireless topics including emerging 6G technologies and Terahertz communications.

Internationally, ISED will lead the Government of Canada's engagement at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in order to ensure the continued growth, innovation and international competitiveness of Canada's telecommunication sector, which includes radio communication. With this objective, ISED in 2023 will continue its participation in the following: the quadrennial, treaty-binding World Radiocommunication Conference, which will revise the Radio Regulations, the international treaty governing the use of the radio-frequency spectrum and the geostationary-satellite and non- geostationary-satellite orbits); associated Conference Preparatory Meeting, chaired by Canada; and the Radiocommunication Assembly. ISED will also prepare for the next World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly in 2024, which will adopt a work plan for the development of telecommunications or ICT standards in the next four years.

Reinvigorating tourism in Canada

Tourism provides an important opportunity for economic growth across the country. In 2023–24, ISED will continue to support the tourism sector's ongoing recovery, stability and growth.

As announced in Budget 2022, the Department will continue work on a renewed Federal Tourism Growth Strategy. As the industry continues to recover in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department hosted extensive consultations with industry stakeholders, including operators, industry associations, Indigenous partners, municipalities, Destination Marketing Organizations and others on this refreshed Strategy.

The Department will also focus on delivering the $20 million commitment in Budget 2022 to help the indigenous tourism industry recover from the pandemic and position itself for long-term, sustainable growth. Indigenous tourism funding provides opportunities to remove barriers, address systemic gaps, and build on the competitive advantage of indigenous tourism businesses in a globally rebounding tourism sector. This aims to develop indigenous tourism potential in Canada while advancing reconciliation and inclusive economic growth.

ISED will also continue to support federal-provincial-territorial collaboration on tourism through the Canadian Council of Tourism Ministers (CCTM) forum.

Developing talent for the digital economy

ISED continues to supports its commitment to develop skills in the workforce to help Canadian businesses scale. The Upskilling for Industry Initiative (UII) places employers at the forefront of identifying the skills needs of high-growth sectors: agri-tech, cyber security, digital tech, clean tech, advanced manufacturing and biomanufacturing. In 2023–24, the Department will help up to 7,750 Canadians, including those from underrepresented groups, connect with new work opportunities. Ultimately, the initiative will foster a more responsive training ecosystem and support Canada's overall economic growth.

ISED will continue delivering important internship programs under the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) umbrella, such as through the Digital Skills for Youth (DS4Y) and Computers for Schools Internship (CFSI) programs. The DS4Y program received an additional two years of funding starting in 2023–24. It provides for digital skills training and work experience opportunities to underemployed post- secondary graduates to enable them to participate in the digital economy. Furthermore, in 2023–24, the CFSI program will offer 118 internships to enhance the employability and marketability of underrepresented youth through valuable work experience aimed to develop and enhance advanced digital skills.

Additionally, ISED will continue supporting opportunities for Canadian youth (K-12) to learn digital skills, including coding, data analytics and digital content development, through the CanCode program. The program was renewed for a third iteration for three years, specifically from 2021 to 2024. With a strong focus towards the inclusion of underrepresented groups, CanCode aims to equip Canadian youth with the skills they need to prepare for further studies, including advanced digital skills and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) courses. The program also support initiatives that provide training and professional development to K-12 teachers, which allows them to introduce digital skills and coding related concepts into the classroom. CanCode 3.0 aims to provide three million training opportunities to students and deliver training to 120,000 teachers. By the end of the program, over seven million training opportunities will have been provided to students.

ISED will deliver the Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER) to support its work in increasing access to work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities for students in Canada. The funding helps BHER convene partners, coordinate and align stakeholder efforts across Canada, and secure commitments from industry across all segments of the economy to create an additional 22,307 WIL placements for students from all academic disciplines by 2024–25. In 2023–24, BHER aims to create over 7,000 WIL opportunities. The program will also create inclusive pathways to green jobs, through these WIL placements, to mobilize talent pipelines that support employers towards the net-zero transition goal.

The Department will monitor and support Mitacs with the ongoing implementation of its Budget 2021 obligations, including delivery of the Accelerate, Business Strategy Internship, Elevate, Globalink, and Mitacs Entrepreneur International programs, as well as programming as part of the Talent Pillar of the National Quantum Strategy. This includes furthering research across all disciplines, training the next generation of innovators, helping small-to-medium sized enterprises, and fostering overall growth and success of Canada's innovation ecosystem.

In 2023–24, ISED will continue to work on the ongoing implementation of Let's Talk Science's initiative by maintaining the delivery of program commitments relating to climate, digital literacy and space; the development of digital learning resources, expansion of outreach sites, and Canadian educators.

Departmental Result: Businesses, investors and consumers are confident in the Canadian marketplace, including in the digital economy

Canadian entrepreneurs and innovators have the skills and potential to be leaders on the world stage. Creating conditions for equitable market conditions and opportunities is essential to remain competitive and grow. Open, fair, and competitive markets are critical to Canada's economic growth on the global stage.

Building an inclusive and competitive economy for all Canadians

In 2023–24, ISED will continue supporting Canadian consumers make informed decisions and to help protect and promote their economic interests in the global marketplace.

Competition remains one of the key tenets in a fair and inclusive market economy. In 2023–24, ISED through the Competition Bureau (Bureau) plans to continue its work to advance three strategic pillars from the 2020–24 Strategic Vision: protecting Canadians through enforcement action; promoting competition in Canada; and, investing in the organization.

The Bureau will continue to protect Canadians through enforcement action across multiple sectors, including telecommunications and digital services. In terms of actions, they include: preventing deceptive marketing practices and anti-competitive conduct; cartels and problematic mergers; and building its investigation and litigation capacity to take timely and evidence-based enforcement in both traditional and digital marketplaces.

In addition to its core enforcement work, the Bureau will work with regulators and policymakers to assess the competitive impact of new and existing policies and regulations with a strong emphasis on the essential role of competition in the economy. This includes actively supporting the Government of Canada's review and update of the Competition Act to modernize our competition laws and policies.

The Bureau will also publish a report in June 2023, which documents the results from its Retail Grocery Market Study. The report will propose several recommendations Governments may pursue to encourage competition in the sector.

ISED will continue to create relevant products and make information accessible to better empower consumers and protecting their interests. In 2023–24, ISED in partnership with other government departments and agencies, will continue to deliver the Contributions Program for Non-Profit Consumer and Voluntary Organizations, which supports non-profit consumer organizations to undertake research on current and emerging marketplace issues in the interest of protecting Canadian consumers. ISED aims to provide funding to 15 to 20 consumer advocacy organizations across Canada to carry out research and development projects, covering range of issues from systemic barriers to vulnerable consumers to strengthening consumer organization capacity, for a total $1.7 million in 2023–24.

In 2023–24, ISED will continue the implementation of the amendments to the Canada Business Corporations Act by rolling out a public and searchable beneficial ownership registry, to allow access to the beneficial ownership data held by provinces and territories that agree to participate in a pan-Canadian registry.

Within ISED, the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB) will continue to modernize directives, regulations and IT systems, leverage artificial intelligence, and protect the integrity of the Canadian insolvency system through effective compliance promotion, monitoring and enforcement.

Measurement Canada (MC) will continue to approve and oversee all measuring devices used for financial transactions in the Canadian marketplace. MC will continue its review of the legislation and regulations for trade measurement to prepare for future technologies and commercial practices, enable innovation, and reduce regulatory burden for small businesses. In 2023–24, MC will prioritize the assessment and approval of new clean trade measurement technologies and to continue establishing codes as well as standards for Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) charging and fuelling stations.

Leveraging Canadian intellectual property for inclusive economic growth

As industries, businesses and consumers are becoming increasingly interdependent in the digital economy, it is imperative that Canadians and Canadian businesses protect their intellectual property (IP) rights. ISED, through the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO), will continue to deliver its core mandate of supporting Canadian businesses by delivering their IP rights and improving the quality and timeliness of its IP services.

The IP Awareness and Education Program, a key component of Canada's National IP Strategy, aims to help Canadian businesses, entrepreneurs and innovators to better understand IP and its importance in growing their businesses. In 2023–24, CIPO will continue to support this program by fostering innovation and competitiveness in Canada through leadership and education. The IP Village will be further developed and deliver a range of targeted educational resources and tools to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), women, Indigenous and Black entrepreneurs. Furthermore, CIPO will advance IP harmonization and support the negotiation and implementation of trade agreements, as well as ensure that IP information and data is accessible, complete and protected.

CIPO will also be continuing its implementation of a recovery plan to address trademark productivity challenges. The goal will be to increase efficiencies by leveraging new technologies and integrating them with existing systems, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning to reduce trademark application inventory, reduce turnaround times and improve the online service experience.

In 2023–24, ISED will maintain the Intellectual Property (IP) Clinics Program to further advance the Government of Canada's IP Strategy, by encouraging the establishment or enhancement of IP legal clinics within Canadian law schools to support the provision of free or low-cost access to basic IP advisory services and foster the development of future IP experts. A key commitment is to improve the understanding of IP and increase access to IP services for SMEs, women, and Indigenous innovators.

The IP Centre of Expertise (IP CoE), which was created as part of Canada's National IP Strategy, provides IP advice and training to support federal organizations and public servants with all of their IP needs. The IP CoE will continue to work with federal organizations and programs to ensure that federal public servants have the IP knowledge and resources necessary to fulfill their mandate and duties. It will also ensure that IP is addressed and managed in manner that adds value for Canadian businesses and the Canadian public, including exploring the use of new IP data tools and experimenting with new training delivery approaches.

ExploreIP, Canada's IP Marketplace, provides an online tool for businesses, entrepreneurs and innovators to facilitate access to IP held by public sector institutions.

The ExploreIP program will continue to engage with key innovation stakeholders with the goal of providing added value to Canada's innovation ecosystem and increasing the number of public sector-industry collaborations.

The ElevateIP Program, with its investment of $90 million over four years, will allow business accelerators and incubators to provide Canadian start-ups with IP programming in three important areas: the development of IP strategies, the implementation of IP strategies, and IP education and awareness. By providing these key supports, ElevateIP aims to help Canadian start-ups use their IP more strategically, increase IP capacity within the Canadian innovation ecosystem and ensure supports are accessible and inclusive.

The Department will continue to roll out the Patent Collective Pilot Program, which will continue to bring together firms through a membership model to support Canadian SMEs in the data-driven clean technology sector in collaborating to facilitate better IP outcomes for collective members. In addition, information gathered while serving SMEs in the data-driven clean technology sector will provide the Government with information on the IP needs of these innovators and on the value of a range of IP-oriented services.

ISED is committed to providing indigenous organizations with support for connecting and developing small-scale initiative and IP related projects. The Indigenous Intellectual Property Program (IIPP) initiatives aim to promote a more inclusive IP system for Indigenous Peoples, through initiatives focused on education, awareness raising and capacity building. ISED is committing to provide up to $150,000 in 2023–24, in grants, to support Indigenous organizations' capacity building and awareness raising projects related to intellectual property, Indigenous knowledge and Indigenous cultural expressions. This may include participation in ongoing World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) discussions as well.

ISED will continue the timely processing of foreign investment notifications and applications for review filed by foreign investors under the Investment Canada Act. Furthermore, the Department will continue to support several legislative amendments to strengthen the national security review provisions of the Act.

Further to the Government of Canada's commitment in the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA), ISED will continue to provide the federal contribution to the annual operating budget of the CFTA's Internal Trade Secretariat Corporation (ITSC) to fulfill the Government of Canada's commitment to strengthen trade within Canada. This annual grant, along with the contribution of the provincial and territorial governments, enables the ITSC to provide administrative and operational support to the Committee on Internal Trade, any committees and working groups established under the CFTA, as well any panel hearings resulting from disputes launched under the CFTA.

Departmental Result: Canada has a clean and sustainable economy

In order to transition to a cleaner and sustainable economy, it is imperative that Canada develops a globally competitive clean technology sector that addresses environmental challenges and provides opportunities for high quality jobs for Canadians. These technologies will be critical in reducing GHG emissions, especially towards Canada's net-zero emissions goal by 2050. ISED provides important support to researchers and businesses as they develop and adopt clean technologies and products.

ISED uses four key indicators to help track the impacts of its support in the clean technology field. They include the number of ISED-funded projects with a clean tech component and the annual incremental reductions in GHG emissions attributable to ISED-supported technologies. More broadly, the Department monitors the value of Canada's total sales in clean technologies and the number of clean tech jobs across the country.

Helping to grow the clean technology sector

To support Canada becoming a leader in clean technologies, the Strategic Innovation Fund will continue to fund project proposals that aim to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions, especially through the launch of the Net Zero Accelerator (NZA). The program will continue to accelerate the commercialization of innovative products through support for high-value, innovative projects. These activities include building domestic resilience in Canada's supply-chains and strengthening the country's long term pandemic preparedness through targeted investments. Through the NZA and the Call-to-Action for large emitters, ISED will keep supporting project proposals that aim to help Canada meet its GHG reduction objectives, and build the strategic national strengths to place Canadian businesses at the forefront of innovation within a global context.

Given Canada's climate commitments, ISED will continue helping Canadian companies develop and deploy globally competitive clean technology solutions that address environmental challenges related to climate change, clean air, clean water, and clean soil. In 2023–24, ISED will continue to implement the recapitalization of Sustainable Development Technology Canada's (SDTC) Sustainable Development Tech Fund, delivering the $750 million announced in the 2020 Fall Economic Statement through 2025–26. SDTC will also continue implementing its renewed mandate, which includes funding to large projects, implementation of its Capital Intensive Decarbonization Strategy, scaling-up of core funding activities to support projects and leading clean technology companies.

In support of the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan, an interdepartmental team comprising of ISED, Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) was established in summer 2022 to develop and coordinate an effective strategy; actively engage with central agencies, other federal departments and crown corporations involved in clean technology and climate innovation policy. Through this stakeholder engagement, a framework, which will be published in spring 2023, will propose the best practices and recommendations for Canadians to achieve these policy objectives present in the plan.

As the Government of Canada transitions towards a cleaner economy and net zero emissions by 2050, the pilot of Integrate Climate Lens (ICL), an analytical framework that raises awareness of climate change risks and impacts associated with projects, has been expanded to ISED along with six other departments in fall 2022. The ICL supports the promotion of inclusive growth and a sustainable economy, which focuses on the advancement of the objectives of the Strengthened Climate Plan. In 2023–24, ISED's ICL team will work with its counterparts at ECCC and the Department of Finance to ensure the timely process of ICLs, which assess GHG and the respective economic impacts for each proposal.

In line with ISED's role in supporting clean technology and clean growth policy, the Clean Growth Hub—a horizontal initiative co-led by ISED and NRCan and in partnership with 15 other departments and agencies—will deliver on its mandate as the federal focal point for clean technology. In 2023–24, the Clean Growth Hub will aim to fulfill three key functions: help clean technology stakeholders identify and navigate federal programs and services most relevant to their needs; improve federal clean technology program coordination; and strengthen federal capacity to track clean technology outcomes. Under this mandate, the Hub will ensure that clean technology stakeholders are well equipped to make decisions related to clean technology innovation and deployment, foremost clean economic growth. Furthermore, the Hub will provide more targeted and tailored services to both existing and new clients, including high-potential clean technology firms. It will continue the implementation of its Strategy and Action Plan to advance Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (REDI) in its operations. The REDI plan's ultimate goal is to develop a stronger understanding regarding the needs of underrepresented groups in the clean technology sector, including women and Indigenous people, and tailoring the Hub's services specifically to support new opportunities.

Leveraging improved data on clean technologies

In 2023–24, the Clean Technology Data Strategy (CTDS) will focus on three components through close collaboration between ISED, NRCan and Statistics Canada: authoritative macroeconomic statistics, industry data and administrative data.

Statistics Canada, under the direction of NRCan and ISED, will continue to generate macroeconomic and microeconomic results of Canada's cleantech sector (e.g., gross domestic product, trade volume, employment) through the economic account and related surveys. In 2023–24, updated results of cleantech workforce characteristics are expected to be available based on the latest 2021 Census data. It will provide for the first time the authoritative statistical evidence on the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on underrepresented workers in the cleantech sector.

The Clean Growth Hub will continue to work with federal programs to improve the consistency in data collection on federal cleantech investments. The Hub will also work to enrich the clean technology investment database by leading an annual federal clean technology investment data collection exercise which will allow for deeper analysis and understanding of federal programs that support clean technology.

Gender-Based Analysis Plus

In 2023–24, ISED will deliver its ongoing commitment towards the implementation of GBA Plus in all stages of policy and program development. For example, the Competition Bureau has been working with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to advance their understanding of a gender-inclusive competition policy. This includes exploring the viability of a gender lens in developing a more effective competition policy that can address gender equality. With the recent development of a 'Gender Inclusive Competition Policy Toolkit', the Bureau intends to use suggestions on this Toolkit to incorporate gender in competition policy and enforcement.

As a Pan-Canadian organization, the National Cybersecurity Consortium (NCC), the recipient of the Cyber Security Innovation Network (CSIN) program, will implement an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Framework with GBA Plus considerations. The framework will outline actions the CSIN will adopt to identify and remove barriers regarding the participation of individuals from underrepresented groups in Network governance, operations, and activities. This includes developing EDI objectives, actions, data collection methods, and performance metrics to measure progress, and EDI criteria in the composition of the selection committee and in selection criteria for Network-supported projects; and aspiring to meet the GoC's 50/30 Challenge in the composition of the Board and senior management.

The Department has further introduced several measures to tackle the inherent inequity towards underrepresented groups, particularly women. Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC), a national program, recognizes that women in Canada remain underrepresented in STEM fields and occupations as evident by low women (and other underrepresented groups) ownership in R&D firms. In 2023–24, ISC, along with other initiatives aimed at encouraging greater participation of equity deserving groups, will continue to increase program awareness within the innovation eco-system across Canada and encourage participation in the program from women, Indigenous people, youth, 2SLGBTQ+ and other under-represented groups. The program will conduct targeted outreach to small businesses owned and operated by these groups.

ISED's Intellectual Property program will continue to advance inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. For instance, ElevateIP supports offered by recipient business accelerators and incubators (BAIs) will endeavor to be accessible and inclusive.

Recipient BAIs will begin working on plans that will reduce and prevent barriers for underrepresented groups in term of participating and accessing IP support. Additionally, the ExploreIP program conducts a portion of its outreach activities with a focus on underrepresented groups, including indigenous, black, women, 2SLGBTQ+, disabled and other diverse groups of entrepreneurs. These activities comprise of participating at events, direct demonstrations and meetings in order to raise awareness about the IP platform among these groups.

As part of ISED's commitment to advance gender equality, ISED will also further introduce a new mandatory requirement, the Gender and Diversity Plan, in its ITB Value Proposition (the bidder's economic commitment to Canada) under its ITB policy. The bidders are required to describe their approach to achieving gender balance and increasing diversity within their Canadian corporate structures and broader supply chains in Canada. Since its introduction in 2018, Gender and Diversity Plans have been submitted on eight procurements under the ITB Policy.

United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the UN Sustainable Development Goals

ISED is a strong proponent towards Canada's efforts to develop and implement the United Nations (UN) 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While ISED supports all 17 SDGs, ISED's mandate, programs and initiatives advance action on SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure to "build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation." Under Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy—Canada's whole-of-society approach to realizing the SDGs—ISED is the lead on SDG 9. ISED's programs and initiatives that support this SDG include: the Global Innovation Clusters initiative, the SIF and Innovative Solutions Canada. Recognizing the importance of accelerating the transition to a low-carbon, inclusive, clean growth economy, ISED will continue to help Canadians and Canadian businesses embrace sustainability as a core value over the short, medium, and longer term through commitments to develop environmental sustainability plans.

Other SDGs supported by ISED include: SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy; SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth; SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production; and SDG 13 – Climate Action. Examples of key Departmental policies, initiatives and programs that support these SDGs include: Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDG 7 and SDG 13); the Accelerated Growth Service (SDG 8); and the work of the Office of Consumer Affairs in supporting voluntary action to reduce environmental impacts and promote clean growth (SDG 12).

Innovation

As part of ISED's efforts to experiment with high impact innovations, digitization and modernizing the Department's operations remains a high priority. For example, the CIPO has implemented a few pilot projects, which seek to improve the efficiency and the delivery of its services. Along with exploring measures to reduce backlogs concerning patent applications, CIPO will introduce the E-Distribution Pilot and Electronic Research Sheet Pilot projects. Efforts will entail distributing digital trademark application files to examiners digitally and improve timelines of services to application in Canada and abroad.

Key risks

ISED delivers some of Canada's key innovation programs aimed at and spurring investments in research and development and the commercialization of new technologies; however, the wide-array of business support programs available to Canadian companies, combined with the high administrative burden that comes with finding, applying to, and reporting on these programs means that some businesses, particularly those without the dedicated capacity for these types of activities, could be left behind. ISED could also miss opportunities to provide support to companies with high return-on-investment potential that do not engage with federal government programs due to heavy administrative requirements.

Additionally, given the rapidly changing business models and evolving needs of Canadian businesses, there is a risk that ISED may be unable to adapt its client service experience to effectively meet the needs of industry. This could result in missed opportunities for innovation thereby impacting Canada's global competitiveness.

To mitigate these risks, ISED continues to pursue opportunities to access insights into, and ensure policy alignment with, business needs, gaps in policy and programming, preferred programming, and combinations of programming that maximize conditions for growth by leveraging data from its many innovation-based programs, including, but not limited to: the Innovation Canada Platform; Accelerated Growth Service; Clean Growth Hub, ExploreIP; Business Benefits Finder; BizPaL; Innovation Advisors; the Canada Business App, and CDAP.

From a talent lens, Canada has one of the most educated populations in the world, but important skill gaps remain. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many sectors are experiencing a shortage of skilled workers needed to compete in the global economy. Additionally, as technological change accelerates and the business models continue to evolve, there is a risk that Canadians may not be equipped with the skills and competencies needed to succeed in the workforce.

To mitigate these risks, ISED will continue to deliver, adapt and expand key programs that support the development of a talent pipeline that is responsive to the evolving needs to industry. Additionally, given the growing importance of STEM in future workplaces, ISED will continue its efforts to ensure that various underrepresented groups have equal access to programming and opportunities to increase their representation in STEM disciplines.

The Government of Canada is committed to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050, however, in the face of extreme weather conditions, rising sea levels and other climate- related events, there is a risk that ISED's programs aimed at decarbonizing Canada's largest emitters and transitioning to a low-carbon, green economy may not be enough to offset these environmental impacts in a sustainable manner.

The full decarbonization of Canada's economy will require significant investments, which illustrates the need for ISED to fund projects that maximize environmental impacts. Originally launched in 2021, ISED's Net Zero Accelerator (NZA) initiative represents the largest grants and contributions program under the Strengthened Climate Plan. This comprehensive suite of federal measures was designed to advance Canada's climate objectives by supporting large-scale, innovative projects with Canadian industry to advance the adoption, development and commercialization of clean technologies. The NZA facilitates strategic investments to secure large, near-term greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions and advances broader Canadian clean technology objectives, in collaboration with partner departments, in order to help Canada achieve it's net-zero target by 2050 while stimulating economic growth and building climate resilience.

Planned results for Companies, Investment and Growth

The financial, human resources and performance information for the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) program inventory is available on GC InfoBase.

Planned budgetary spending for Companies, Investment and Growth

Planned spending includes new temporary funding announced in Budget 2022 for Global Innovation Clusters (formerly Innovation Superclusters Initiative) and the Coordinated Accessible National Health Network and reflects the fluctuations in the approved funding profile of the Strategic Innovation Fund. Decisions on possible extensions or renewals of program funding are subject to future Government budget processes.

Financial, human resources and performance information for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) program inventory is available on GC InfoBase.

Planned human resources for Companies, Investment and Growth

Financial, human resources and performance information for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) program inventory is available on GC InfoBase.

Internal services: planned results

Description

Internal services are the services that are provided within a department so that it can meet its corporate obligations and deliver its programs. There are 10 categories of internal services:

• management and oversight services
• communications services
• legal services
• human resources management services
• financial management services
• information management services
• information technology services
• real property management services
• materiel management services
• acquisition management services

Planning highlights

In 2023–24, ISED's internal services will guide and support the organization in being agile and purpose-driven, inclusive and healthy, and equipped and capable. This work will be reflected in ISED's continued transformation into a hybrid organization that is aligned with the Common Hybrid Model for the Federal Public Service, and which has a high performing, diverse workforce. Through this transformation, ISED will adapt its workplace, support its workforce through change, and evolve its work practices and processes to deliver results.

Our Workplace

In 2023–24, ISED will continue to assess and adjust its technology, tools and workspaces to ensure that they are accessible and that they evolve to meet changing needs as a result of the shift to a hybrid work model.

ISED will also modernize and improve its Information Management and Information Technology infrastructure and tools. Multi-year initiatives will include standardizing identity and access management; leveraging investments regarding multi factor authentication; transitioning towards a modernized security platform to improve cyber threat detection and response; and completing the ongoing migration towards cloud- based operations. In terms of information management, ISED will aim to further consolidate its information through the implementation of an IT secure infrastructure.

This anticipated expansion will safeguard as well as secure information, especially in the context of the new hybrid work model.

Our Workforce

In 2023-24 ISED will continue work to be an organization that is equitable and diverse, provides a healthy, safe and inclusive work environment for its workforce, and supports its workforce in adapting to a hybrid work environment.

It will prioritize measures that will promote anti-racism, equity and inclusiveness. These initiatives involve: recruiting and retaining diverse talent to reflect the rich diversity of Canadian population, promoting inclusive environments for career progression, implementing accessibility practices in all departmental operations and supporting and engaging vibrant employee networks to achieve a culture shift in equity, diversity and inclusion. ISED will also promote a safe, healthy and inclusive work environment that supports the work of its Community Champions and Diversity and Inclusion Employee Networks, including, the Black Employees Network, Indigenous Employees Network, Racial Equity Network, 2SLGBTQ+ Network, Persons with Disabilities Network, and Women's Network. The Department will empower its employees by developing and building a more empowered, agile and equipped workforce through an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy focused on the removal of systemic barriers identified in people management policies and practices; becoming leaders in assessment and recruiting the 'ISED' way; strengthening ISED's onboarding through strategic learning curriculums; expanding ISED's mentorship program; and building a modernized approach to Talent Management that incorporates developmental program best practices.

The Department will continue the implementation of the Accessible Canada Act, through its Accessibility Plan which was published on December 28, 2022, to increase accessibility for its employees, particularly for its disabled employee community. ISED will launch the Guide to Accessible Meetings at ISED, and promote accessibility tools for the Department to improve day-to-day interactions. For those requesting consultations with persons with disabilities on proposed initiative and programs, the ISED Accessibility Feedback Panel will continue to provide information and guidance. The Accessibility Ambassador Program will continue to support employees across the department to verify their own work and ensure the support of accessible practices.

ISED will also be optimizing the Workplace Accommodation Centre's service delivery model for persons with disabilities by emphasizing work arrangement related accommodations, expediting low-risk accommodations and further promoting accessibility passports for persons with disabilities.

In addition, the Department will continue the implementation of the Official Languages (OL) Three-year Action Strategy (2022-2025), which will support the active use of official languages in departmental settings. This will be supplemented by promoting a culture of linguistic duality and the continued implementation of its initiative to increase the linguistic profiles of supervisory positions in bilingual regions to CBC. ISED will also review its current and recent Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention Policy and Regulations, including its implementation.

Through this journey, ISED recognizes that People Managers have unique pressures and needs as they deliver on ISED's important mandate while leading their teams and themselves through change. ISED will work to support its People Managers with improved onboarding processes, expanded learning resources and mentorship opportunities, and continued efforts to strengthen engagement and communication channels.

In 2023–24, ISED will devote efforts towards developing and strengthening management and leadership capacity through the ISED People Managers development program, supporting organizational evolution, and incorporating diversity elements into talent management processes. In terms of people mobilization and organizational agility, the Department will be processing classification requests in a timely manner, modernizing the risk-based service delivery model, and providing managers with appropriate tools to review as well as update their organizational structures.

Employee mental health, safety and well-being remains a high priority. Over the last number of years, employees have faced destabilizing forces that have required them to pass through multiple and significant changes that often impacted both their personal and professional lives. ISED will support its employees through a range of resources as it continues to implement the 2021-2024 Psychological Health and Safety Strategy and Action Plan as part of its mental health strategy, and has already initiated development of an updated Mental Health Strategy. In addition to promoting and supporting mental health in the workplace, the Office of the Ombud promotes an inclusive and diverse workplace by offering a new training workshop aimed at raising awareness of and equipping people on micro interventions to counter microaggressions from an informal conflict management perspective. The Office of the Ombud will also continue to play a leadership role in supporting the Canadian Innovation Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace. The Centre, which was created by ISED in 2018, hosts a variety of innovative 60 to 90 minute workshops delivered by Canadian and international experts, academics and persons with lived experience. The workshops equip employees and managers with knowledge and best practices in support of mental health and well- being, the focus of which will continue to be on helping public servants cope with the mental health effects of the coronavirus pandemic, the return to the workplace and supporting their wellness.

As ISED continues to evolve as a hybrid organization, it will shift its original focus from transitioning employees into new work arrangements, to a new focus of supporting its workforce to work effectively in a high performing hybrid organization. ISED will seek opportunities to engage its employees in the development and adoption of best practices and resources that encourage and reinforce the mindsets and behaviours that promote healthy, inclusive, efficient and effective collaboration and creation. These will include learning resources to help the workforce better leverage the wealth of digital collaboration tools at their disposal and foster the adoption of best practices within teams and improving useability and centralized access to resources.

Our Work

In 2023–24, ISED will continue working towards organizational improvements to foster strong financial stewardship of public funds. The activities will include implementing a new Chief Financial Officer model with a clear mandate and standardizing its approach to the management and modernization of the Grants and Contributions programs.

Furthermore, ISED, in seeking to move towards a more robust financial management structure, will work with central agencies to develop greater flexibilities in managing its multi-year projects and financial authorities.

ISED will continue to assess and adjust its governance mechanisms, internal policy frameworks, and business processes to ensure efficiency in the delivery of our work, as well as alignment to the hybrid work model. This will include digitization of security services through the implementation of online portals, and phasing out of paper-based services.

In line with the Government of Canada's goal of growing a data driven culture, ISED will continue to support the strategic direction towards enterprise data and analytics to inform better decision making and outcomes for Canadian and Canadian businesses.

For example, the Chief Data Office will promote its work and progress in developing dashboards for programs such as the Canadian Digital Adoption Program (CDAP), which reflects the importance of prioritizing data as a long-term investment. In 2023–24, the Department will prioritize increasing the organization's maturity around managing and utilizing data. Moreover, there will a focus on data standards and data integrity, which aims to tackle risks associated with potential fraud and inaccurate data.

Planning for Contracts Awarded to Indigenous Businesses

In order to achieve and exceed the phase 1 departmental 5% Indigenous procurement targets and fulfill our economic reconciliation obligations, ISED has taken and continues to take the following actions:

• Communicate ISED's newly developed Indigenous Procurement Policy and related processes;
• Deliver training within the Department to key stakeholders;
  • 100% of PGs completed "Indigenous Considerations in Procurement" (by July 2022) and the "Procurement in Nunavut Settlement" (by September 2022) training.
• Identify key Indigenous resources for our procurement activities;
• Engage early in the planning stages with clients/sectors by Contracting Authorities, as early as possible, in order to maximize contracts awarded to Indigenous firms;
• Conduct Request for Information (RFI) to determine whether additional capacity exists as needed;
• Award any sole source contract under 40K to Indigenous firms as the default, where capacity exists;
• Respect the spirit of Indigenous Procurement Policy and prioritize purchases with Indigenous firms when using their acquisition cards;
• Enforce new processes, such as ADM approval requirements for all exemptions to ISED's Indigenous Procurement Policy;
• Work with ISC, PSPC, as well as the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Businesses (CCAB) to develop a repertoire of suppliers who could meet ISED's needs and help identify new/ additional suppliers;
• Include mandatory considerations to promote Indigenous procurement for larger competitive procurement activities and reserves the right to consider solely Indigenous applicants if more than one Indigenous firm applies; and
• Utilize corporate controls and reporting to monitor compliance and achieve our targets.

In 2023–24, ISED plans to continue its ongoing efforts to increase the number of contracts awarded to Indigenous firms. Lessons learned include the importance of communication strategies, and the value of early and ongoing engagement of key stake holders.

Some additional strategies ISED plans to utilize in 2023–24 include:

• Imposing mandatory "Indigenous Considerations in Procurement" and the "Procurement in Nunavut Settlement" trainings for Business Owners (Project Authorities, Technical Authorities), all non PG employees with delegated contracting authorities and all acquisition card holders;
• Monitoring that all new PGs arriving into ISED complete the required Indigenous procurement related training, within 3 months of their arrival, and for Acquisition Card Holders, prior to receiving a card;
• Creating a review process of non-Indigenous Firm awarded contracts, with the goal of developing mitigation strategies; and
• Establishing a method of reporting for ISED's acquisition card spending awarded to Indigenous firms.

Planned budgetary spending for internal services

The reduction in budget in outer years is a reflection of the temporary nature of a funding agreement to support the Rural Economic Development portfolio, as well as an increase to funding transfers to Shared Services Canada in support of government IT operations.

Planned human resources for internal services

Planned spending and human resources

This section provides an overview of the department's planned spending and human resources for the next three fiscal years and compares planned spending for 2023–24 with actual spending for the current year and the previous year.

Planned spending

Departmental spending 2020–21 to 2025–26

The following graph presents planned spending (voted and statutory expenditures) over time.

Budgetary planning summary for core responsibilities and internal services (dollars)

2023–24 budgetary gross and net planned spending summary (dollars)

ISED's 2023–24 Budgetary Planned Gross Spending is $6.2 billion, which includes $334 million in vote netted revenues, accounting for total planned net spending of $5.9 billion.

The ISED vote netted revenue authorities are those referred to in paragraph 29.1(2)(a) of the Financial Administration Act (i.e. revenue received by the department in a fiscal year through the conduct of its operations, which the department is authorized to expend in order to offset expenditures incurred in that fiscal year) from the following sources:

1. the provision of internal support services under section 29.2 of that Act, and the provision of internal support services to the Canadian Intellectual Property Office;
2. activities and operations related to communications research at the Communication Research Centre;
3. services and insolvency processes under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act at the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy;
4. activities and operations carried out by Corporations Canada under the Canada Business Corporations Act, the Boards of Trade Act, the Canada Cooperatives Act and the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act; and,
5. services and regulatory processes for mergers and merger-related matters, including pre-merger notifications, advance ruling certificates and written opinions, under the Competition Act at the Competition Bureau.

Planned human resources

The following table shows information on human resources, in full-time equivalents (FTEs), for each of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) core responsibilities and for its internal services for 2023–24 and the other relevant years.

Estimates by vote

Information on Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) organizational appropriations is available in the 2023–24 Main Estimates.

Future-oriented condensed statement of operations

The future-oriented condensed statement of operations provides an overview of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) operations for 2022– 23 to 2023–24.

The forecast and planned amounts in this statement of operations were prepared on an accrual basis. The forecast and planned amounts presented in other sections of the Departmental Plan were prepared on an expenditure basis. Amounts may therefore differ.

A more detailed future-oriented statement of operations and associated notes, including a reconciliation of the net cost of operations with the requested authorities, are available on Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) website.

The expected variance in total expenses year-over-year is mainly attributable to increases in transfer payments, particularly in the Strategic Innovation Fund, the Canada Digital Adoption Program, the Universal Broadband Fund and the Global Innovation Clusters (formerly Innovation Superclusters Initiative). Given the complexity of some of ISED's programming, and the requirement to align the funding profile with the recipients forecasted spending, further changes to the 2023–24 planned results could occur during the fiscal year.

Total revenues (net of those earned on behalf of government) are projected to increase year-over-year, as the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO)'s revolving fund expects to collect higher revenues due to new patent fees, increased requests for examination as well as higher revenues due to fee increases. Corporations Canada is also expecting increased volume of federal incorporations.

Corporate information

Organizational profile

Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, P.C., M.P.

Minister of Tourism, Associate Minister of Finance
The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, P.C., M.P.

Minister of Rural Economic Development
The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, P.C., M.P.

Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development
The Honourable Mary Ng, P.C., M.P.

Deputy ministers:

• Simon Kennedy
• Catherine Blewett
• Francis Bilodeau

Ministerial portfolio: Innovation, Science and Economic Development

Enabling instrument(s): Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's founding legislation is the Department of Industry Act, S.C. 1995, c.1.

Year of incorporation / commencement: 1892

Raison d'être, mandate and role: who we are and what we do

Information on ISED's raison d'être, mandate and role is available on ISED's website.

Information on ISED's mandate letter commitments is available in the Ministers' mandate letters.

Operating context

Information on the operating context is available on ISED's website.

Reporting framework

Supporting information on the program inventory

Supporting information on planned expenditures, human resources, and results related to ISED's program inventory is available on GC InfoBase.

Supplementary information tables

The following supplementary information tables are available on ISED's website:

• Details on transfer payment programs
• Gender-Based Analysis Plus
• Horizontal initiatives
• Upfront multiyear funding
• United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals

Federal tax expenditures

ISED's Departmental Plan does not include information on tax expenditures.

Tax expenditures are the responsibility of the Minister of Finance. The Department of Finance Canada publishes cost estimates and projections for government-wide tax expenditures each year in the Report on Federal Tax Expenditures. This report provides detailed information on tax expenditures, including objectives, historical background and references to related federal spending programs, as well as evaluations, research papers and Gender-Based Analysis Plus.

Organizational contact information

Mailing address

Corporate Management Sector
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada 235 Queen Street
2nd Floor, East Tower Ottawa, ON K1A 0H5

Telephone: 613-954-5031

TTY: 1-866-694-8389

Fax: 613-954-2340

Email: ic.info-info.ic@ised-isde.gc.ca

Website: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Appendix: definitions

appropriation (crédit)

Any authority of Parliament to pay money out of the Consolidated Revenue Fund.

budgetary expenditures (dépenses budgétaires)

Operating and capital expenditures; transfer payments to other levels of government, organizations or individuals; and payments to Crown corporations.

core responsibility (responsabilité essentielle)

An enduring function or role performed by a department. The intentions of the department with respect to a core responsibility are reflected in one or more related departmental results that the department seeks to contribute to or influence.

Departmental Plan (plan ministériel)

A document that sets out a department's priorities, programs, expected results and associated resource requirements, covering a threeyear period beginning with the year indicated in the title of the report. Departmental Plans are tabled in Parliament each spring.

departmental result (résultat ministériel)

A change that a department seeks to influence. A departmental result is often outside departments' immediate control, but it should be influenced by program-level outcomes.

departmental result indicator (indicateur de résultat ministériel)

A factor or variable that provides a valid and reliable means to measure or describe progress on a departmental result.

departmental results framework (cadre ministériel des résultats)

A framework that consists of the department's core responsibilities, departmental results and departmental result indicators.

Departmental Results Report (rapport sur les résultats ministériels)

A report on a department's actual performance in a fiscal year against its plans, priorities and expected results set out in its Departmental Plan for that year.

Departmental Results Reports are usually tabled in Parliament each fall.

fulltime equivalent (équivalent- temps plein)

A measure of the extent to which an employee represents a full personyear charge against a departmental budget. Fulltime equivalents are calculated as a ratio of assigned hours of work to scheduled hours of work. Scheduled hours of work are set out in collective agreements.

Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA Plus) (analyse comparative entre les sexes plus [ACS Plus])

An analytical tool used to support the development of responsive and inclusive policies, programs and other initiatives. GBA Plus is a process for understanding who is impacted by the issue or opportunity being addressed by the initiative; identifying how the initiative could be tailored to meet diverse needs of the people most impacted; and anticipating and mitigating any barriers to accessing or benefitting from the initiative.

GBA Plus is an intersectional analysis that goes beyond biological (sex) and socio- cultural (gender) differences to consider other factors, such as age, disability, education, ethnicity, economic status, geography, language, race, religion, and sexual orientation.

government-wide priorities (priorités pangouvernementales)

For the purpose of the 2023–24 Departmental Plan, government-wide priorities are the high-level themes outlining the Government's agenda in the 2021 Speech from the Throne: building a healthier today and tomorrow; growing a more resilient economy; bolder climate action; fighter harder for safer communities; standing up for diversity and inclusion; moving faster on the path to reconciliation and fighting for a secure, just, and equitable world.

high impact innovation (innovation à impact élevé)

High impact innovation varies per organizational context. In some cases, it could mean trying something significantly new or different from the status quo. In other cases, it might mean making incremental improvements that relate to a high-spending area or addressing problems faced by a significant number of Canadians or public servants.

horizontal initiative (initiative horizontale)

An initiative in which two or more federal organizations are given funding to pursue a shared outcome, often linked to a government priority.

nonbudgetary expenditures- (dépenses non budgétaires)

Net outlays and receipts related to loans, investments and advances, which change the composition of the financial assets of the Government of Canada.

performance (rendement)

What an organization did with its resources to achieve its results, how well those results compare to what the organization intended to achieve, and how well lessons learned have been identified.

plan (plan)

The articulation of strategic choices, which provides information on how an organization intends to achieve its priorities and associated results. Generally, a plan will explain the logic behind the strategies chosen and tend to focus on actions that lead up to the expected result.

planned spending (dépenses prévues)

For Departmental Plans and Departmental Results Reports, planned spending refers to those amounts presented in the Main Estimates.

A department is expected to be aware of the authorities that it has sought and received. The determination of planned spending is a departmental responsibility, and departments must be able to defend the expenditure and accrual numbers presented in their Departmental Plans and Departmental Results Reports.

program (programme)

Individual or groups of services, activities or combinations thereof that are managed together within a department and that focus on a specific set of outputs, outcomes or service levels.

program inventory (répertoire des programmes)

An inventory of a department's programs that describes how resources are organized to carry out the department's core responsibilities and achieve its planned results.

result (résultat)

An external consequence attributed, in part, to an organization, policy, program or initiative. Results are not within the control of a single organization, policy, program or initiative; instead, they are within the area of the organization's influence.

statutory expenditures (dépenses législatives)

Expenditures that Parliament has approved through legislation other than appropriation acts. The legislation sets out the purpose of the expenditures and the terms and conditions under which they may be made.

target (cible)

A measurable performance or success level that an organization, program or initiative plans to achieve within a specified time period. Targets can be either quantitative or qualitative.

voted expenditures (dépenses votées)

Expenditures that Parliament approves annually through an Appropriation Act. The vote wording becomes the governing conditions under which these expenditures may be made.