With #Tarrifs implications, Canadian businesses and startups face a clear reminder: we cannot afford to depend on a single market. The global landscape is shifting rapidly, and those who fail to adapt risk being left behind.
To address this challenge, the Canada Startup Association convened a high-level panel discussion on February 26, 2025, featuring delegates from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, senior officials from GITEX, stakeholders from British Columbia’s public and private sectors, and prominent industry leaders. The dialogue centered on how Canadian—particularly BC-born—startups can expand internationally for sustainable growth and long-term resilience.
Among the invited speakers was Meer Anwar, CEO of PixelPaddle Solutions, who participated in the roadshow “Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges”. He shared insights from PixelPaddle’s journey, highlighting the company’s inception, the vital role of Canada’s local ecosystem in its growth, and the vast potential for Canadian innovations—especially in the sports technology sector—to thrive in international markets.
The session underscored an important truth: scaling globally is not only about taking Canadian startups abroad, but also about bringing international opportunities back to Canada. Through collaboration with Canadian stakeholders, the Canada Startup Association aims to position the country as a hub where international startups, investors, and partners choose to build and grow.
Key Priorities Identified
✔ Diversify markets – Move beyond over-reliance on a single trading partner by building global networks.
✔ Strengthen trade relationships – Expansion means not just exporting, but also attracting international investment into Canada.
✔ Establish Canada as a global startup hub – To compete globally, Canada must actively attract and support world-class entrepreneurs.
The message was clear: this is not about reacting—it’s about leading.
Startups that seize this moment will not only weather today’s economic headwinds but will also emerge as the leaders of tomorrow.
