With a federal election on the horizon and economic anxieties dominating the national conversation, Foresight Canada is calling on political leaders to embrace clean technology as a cornerstone of Canada’s future prosperity.
In a public letter released this week, the Vancouver-based innovation accelerator urged all federal parties to commit to bold cleantech policies that would boost productivity, protect Canadian industries, and position the country as a global leader in the clean economy.
“Canada stands at a decisive economic crossroads,” the letter begins, citing cleantech as “the most powerful lever we have to reverse declining productivity, modernize supply chains, and increase national GDP while addressing climate imperatives.”
Foresight Canada is asking party leaders to support three key policy priorities:
- Fast-tracking the domestic adoption of Canadian cleantech
- Boosting productivity through smart innovation support
- Positioning Canada as a leader in the global clean economy
The organization points to the economic impact of the sector as evidence of its potential. Ventures supported by Foresight have collectively raised $2.24 billion in capital, created more than 9,000 high-wage jobs, and generated strong returns: for every $1 invested, companies delivered $25 in exports, $117 in revenue, and $264 in additional capital raised.
“Canada has the talent, technology, and resources to lead in clean productivity,” the letter states. “What we need now is the political will.”
Foresight is inviting Canadians to join the call by signing their open letter ahead of election season. The campaign aims to ensure cleantech and innovation remain top of mind as parties release their platforms in the coming months.