How Trade and Invest BC Supports Global Growth for B.C. Businesses

For many British Columbia (B.C.) businesses, taking their operations beyond the province can feel daunting. Managing operations, staffing and everything else is already a challenge—so adding the complexities of international trade to the mix may seem overwhelming. However, exporting remains a powerful strategy for growth, offering numerous benefits that can strengthen B.C. businesses both locally and globally.

Why Exporting is a Smart Growth Strategy

Expanding into international markets opens doors to entirely new revenue streams and opportunities for businesses. Some of the key advantages include:

• Expanding the customer base: B.C. is home to over five million people, but the global market offers billions of potential customers. Exporting allows businesses to tap into a far larger audience, significantly increasing their reach.
• Increasing sales: More customers mean more opportunities to sell. Many international markets value high-quality or niche products—precisely the kinds of offerings that many B.C. businesses bring to the table.
• Gaining a competitive edge: Competing on a global scale fosters innovation, efficiency and sharper business strategies. Companies that export often become stronger players both internationally and at home.

While these benefits make exporting appealing, businesses must also navigate challenges such as tariffs, foreign regulations, cultural differences and logistical hurdles. That’s where Trade and Invest BC (TIBC) steps in.

Trade and Invest BC: Helping Businesses Succeed in International Markets

Trade and Invest BC is a team within B.C.’s Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, whose mandate is to grow and diversify B.C. exports into international markets. The team provides on-the-ground support to B.C. businesses that have a solid foundation for growth and a desire to expand into international markets.

But what does it mean to be “export-ready”? Typically, an export-ready business has several key characteristics:

• A proven product or service with a strong value proposition, either in the domestic market or with potential for international success.
• Financial stability to support growth and the internal capacity to scale.
• A clear vision of where and why they want to expand globally, combined with a willingness to adapt and learn.
• A go-to-market strategy for the target market, including distribution, licensing or direct sales models.
• A commitment to dedicating both financial and human resources to support expansion.

Companies that have completed the Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) or worked with an Export Navigator advisor are often well-prepared to collaborate with TIBC, as they have already laid the groundwork for international expansion.

Practical Support, Market Insights and Strategic Connections

Trade and Invest BC offers hands-on support to help B.C. businesses expand globally, attract international investment and contribute to the province’s economic growth. The organization provides:

• Export readiness assessments and strategic advice on a company’s preparedness for international markets.
• Guidance on programs, services and financial supports that can facilitate exporting efforts.
• Trade event participation to connect businesses with global buyers and investors.
• Inbound buyer missions, bringing international delegates to B.C. to explore local opportunities.
• Introductions to prospective international buyers and partners

Ultimately, Trade and Invest BC measures success by the results its business clients achieve—whether through closing deals, entering new markets or increasing exports.

Global Trade and Investment Representative (TIR) Offices

A key component of Trade and Invest BC’s support network is its global team of Trade and Investment Representatives (TIRs). These representatives operate in more than 20 major cities across North America, Europe and Asia, providing businesses with:

• Local market insights to help them understand business environments abroad.
• Introductions to trusted buyers and partners to facilitate meaningful connections.
• On-the-ground support at trade shows and events, ensuring businesses maximize their presence.

In regions where Trade and Invest BC does not have a physical presence, it collaborates closely with the federal Trade Commissioner Service to ensure businesses receive necessary support. In Asia and Mexico, TIR offices are co-located within Canadian embassies, high commissions and consulates, strengthening international trade relationships.

Leveraging Trade Events for Global Success

Trade and Invest BC leads and/or participates in both domestic and international trade events, including:

• Domestic events such as the BC Export Awards, Global Buyers Mission, Life Sciences Invest in BC, Web Summit Vancouver and AME Roundup, which bring foreign buyers and investors to British Columbia.
• International events like Food & Hotel Asia in Singapore, Hannover Messe, Mobile World Congress and B.C. Week in Korea, where B.C. businesses showcase their expertise on a global stage.

For major international events, Trade and Invest BC recruits B.C. business delegations—often in partnership with federal agencies—to help companies enter new markets. The organization facilitates B2B matchmaking, networking opportunities and specialized programming designed to make time in the market as productive as possible.

Trade events provide valuable exposure, allowing businesses to gain visibility with global buyers, connect with investors and experience international markets firsthand. For any B.C. business considering expansion, checking in with Trade and Invest BC before attending an event can maximize success.

Unlocking Global Opportunities

Through extensive networks, expert guidance and hands-on support, Trade and Invest BC serves as an indispensable partner for B.C. businesses ready to take their products and services to the world. By fostering international trade and investment, TIBC helps build stronger businesses, create jobs and drive economic growth across British Columbia.