Beyond Borders: A Call to Action for Canadian Entrepreneurs
Recent travels across Asia have reinforced a crucial lesson: Canada‘s potential is significantly underestimated, both by ourselves and abroad. Over the past two weeks, I’ve been on the ground, independently funded and driven, meeting with investors, organizations, buisness leaders, trade commissions, and embassies – all with the goal of forging new markets for Canadian companies and building strategic partnerships, notably within the agrifood sector.
What’s become strikingly clear is the limiting nature of our current perspective. It’s easy to critique from a distance, but true progress demands proactive engagement and courage.I’ve consistently heard from international partners a genuine desire to collaborate with Canada. They value our trustworthiness and commitment to long-term value creation – qualities they actively seek in potential partners. they aren’t interested in presentations; they respect entrepreneurs who demonstrate commitment by showing up. Building genuine relationships is paramount.
For too long, we’ve focused inward, often looking to the United States as the sole path to success. This is a misconception. The key to a thriving future isn’t solely south of the border; it lies in a global outlook. Canadian entrepreneurs need to break free from the confines of their offices and actively showcase their innovations on the world stage.
Moreover, a reliance on government intervention as a prerequisite for success is hindering our progress. While policy and regulatory improvements are undoubtedly necessary, they shouldn’t serve as an excuse for inaction. Extraordinary entrepreneurs don’t wait for ideal circumstances; they create opportunities despite them. We possess immense potential, and we must cease self-sabotage.
If canada aspires to global relevance, we must actively become globally relevant. This requires a shift in mindset – a move from passive observation to proactive participation. Let’s move beyond the fence and demonstrate what Canadian ingenuity has to offer.
❤️🇨🇦
