Federal government launches program to simplify procurement for small businesses

The federal government has announced a series of measures aimed at making it easier for small businesses to compete for and secure federal contracts through its new Small Business Procurement Program.

The initiative includes changes intended to simplify procurement processes, reduce bid preparation time and improve access to contracting opportunities. The government said the measures are designed to help small businesses play a larger role in delivering federal projects while supporting jobs, innovation and domestic supply chains.

As part of the initiative, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada will expand its Innovative Solutions Canada program with $79.9 million over five years to help small businesses develop, test and commercialize new technologies through federal procurement opportunities.

“Small businesses are central to Canada’s economy, and today’s launch of the first measures under the Buy Canadian Small Business Procurement Program is a real turning point,” said Joël Lightbound, minister of government transformation, public works and procurement and Quebec Lieutenant. “We are simplifying procurement, reducing barriers and expanding access so more Canadian firms can compete for and deliver federal contracts. This is about using government purchasing power to actively support Canadian growth and Canadian jobs.”

The government said the procurement changes build on modernization efforts introduced since 2017 and are intended to support its Buy Canadian policy while strengthening domestic supply chains.