Canada’s competitiveness depends on our ability to encourage, reward, and commercialize innovative ideas, products and services in our own back yard and around the world. The Intellectual Property Institute of Canada (IPIC) has identified two priorities that will stimulate economic growth in Canada and make our businesses and our country more competitive.

In a global knowledge economy that rewards new inventions and applications of technology, affirming the positive right to benefit from innovation is critical. The federal government should focus on changes that will ensure Canadian businesses are able to adapt to the rapidly changing needs of communities and consumers. We should also look to set an attractive regulatory environment for global businesses looking to do business in Canada. In doing so, we can make Canada a better place to work and create, while also drawing innovative businesses from around the world to our shores.

With the 2019 Federal Budget, Canada has the opportunity to be a world leader in stimulating intellectual property rights, empowering commercialization and encouraging companies to scale effectively. The following recommendations will ensure our innovative businesses can reach their full potential.