Support Local: Choosing Canadian Technology

In recent weeks, there has been a surge in support for Canadian businesses, prompted by escalating trade tensions with the United States. With U.S. President Donald Trump announcing a 25 percent tariff on imported steel and aluminum set to take effect on March 12, many Canadians are rallying behind the mantra "choose Canada." This move, coupled with ongoing discussions about additional tariffs on other Canadian goods, has led to a nationwide effort to redirect purchasing power towards local companies.

Against this backdrop of uncertainty, entrepreneurs are expressing a hopeful outlook. Rashmi Prakash, the CEO of Halifax-based startup Aruna, notes that “optimism is exactly what we need right now,” suggesting that this may be an opportunity for Canadians to become more mindful of their spending habits and to consider buying domestically made products.

For those looking to support local businesses, Canada boasts a diverse range of startups across various sectors. Even though software is not directly affected by tariffs, transitioning from American firms to Canadian ones or adopting a local-first procurement strategy can significantly impact the economy. Canadian startups that typically rely on U.S. suppliers are actively seeking alternatives closer to home; however, this transition is complex given the intertwined nature of the two economies. Opting to support Canadian businesses not only strengthens the economy but also demonstrates national solidarity.

Several Canadian startups have emerged with innovative solutions across different fields. In the business services sector, companies like Axonify and Blue J are delivering personalized training and AI-powered legal research, respectively. E-commerce tools like Ecomtent, which utilizes AI for advertising content, and GoBolt, a logistics provider, are also gaining traction.

In health technology, startups such as Braze Mobility and FluidAI are developing products that enhance patient care. For instance, Braze Mobility manufactures blind spot sensors for wheelchairs, while FluidAI offers a postoperative monitoring platform. Other notable health tech companies, like PointClickCare, provide cloud-based healthcare management solutions.

The movement towards sustainable solutions is equally robust. Companies like Carbon Upcycling are innovating low-emission cement, while Electrovaya manufactures lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles. The push for circular supply chains is exemplified by Cyclic Materials, which focuses on recycling critical metals.

In the consumer product space, Canadian ventures are also making an impact. Aruna Revolution creates eco-friendly period products, while Muse offers neurotechnology solutions for better sleep. Prodigy is gaining popularity as an educational tool, helping students improve their math skills through interactive gameplay.

As Canadians consider where to direct their spending in response to global market shifts, they are discovering a wealth of innovative, locally made products and services. This collective movement not only supports the economy but also cultivates a sense of community and resilience. By choosing Canadian companies, consumers are investing in their own economy and fostering homegrown talent. To stay informed about these initiatives and more, individuals are encouraged to subscribe to newsletters featuring updates on Canadian ventures.