Supplementary Information of the 2022–2023 Departmental Results Report
Summary :
The additional information provided in this publication is a supplement to the 2022–2023 Departmental Results Report.
Table of Contents
Operating context
The year 2022 was marked by mixed trends for the Quebec economy. Like most major economies, Quebec was confronted by inflationary pressures and significant monetary restraint in response. The resulting uncertain economic outlooks are reflected in the weakness of investments, particularly those of businesses, along with trade flows – two factors that have limited growth. On the other hand, the strength of the Quebec labour market supported household consumption spending, a significant contributor to GDP growth. Lastly, the slowdown was less pronounced than believed, and the anticipated recession for 2022 did not take shape.
Moreover, several structural issues persisted and continue to represent an obstacle to Quebec’s economic potential, particularly the productivity gap, the labour shortage and the decline in entrepreneurial intensity.
Reporting on Green Procurement
The purpose of this supplementary information table is to report on green procurement activities under the terms of the Policy on Green Procurement.
Background
Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) is subject to the Federal Sustainable Development Act, but did not prepare an optional report on the WSSD 2022–23. To comply with the reporting requirements of the Policy on Green Procurement for 2022 to 2023, CED instead prepared the Reporting on Green Procurement supplementary information table as indicated in the Departmental Results Report 2022–23.
Commitments
| FSDS target(s) | FSDS contributing action(s) | Corresponding departmental action(s) | Starting point(s) Performance indicators Targets | Results achieved | Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Actions supporting the Greening Government goal and the Policy on Green Procurement | Departments will use environmental criteria to reduce the environmental impact and ensure best value in government procurement decisions. |
Incorporate environmental considerations into procurement management processes and controls, specifically by optimizing the use of Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) procurement instruments and ensuring that bids submitted through competitive tendering processes comply with the Policy on Green Procurement and are submitted electronically, whenever possible. Maintain and improve the printing rate and the use of recycled material. |
Starting point: Percentage of tenders submitted electronically for bids launched in 2019-20: 0% Performance indicator: Percentage of tenders submitted electronically for bids launched. Annual target: 50% Starting point: Printing rate in 2018–19: 20 FTEs for 1 printer Performance indicator: Annual printing rate Annual target: 20 FTEs for 1 printer Starting point: Percentage of recycled toner cartridges purchased in 2018–19: 100%. Performance indicator: Percentage of recycled toner cartridges purchased compared to total volume of toner cartridges during the year. Annual target: 100% |
2022–23 result: 100% 2022–23 result: 29 FTEs for 1 printer 2022–23 result: 100% |
FSDS: Green procurement incorporates environmental considerations into purchasing decisions and is expected to motivate suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of the goods and services they deliver, and their supply chains. SDG: SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production Target: 12.7 % |
| Support for green procurement will be strengthened, including guidance, tools and training for public service employees. | Ensure that all employees on the procurement team have taken training on green procurement. |
Starting point: Percentage of procurement team employees who have taken the CSPS Green Procurement course (C215) in 2019–20: 100% Performance indicator: Percentage of procurement team employees who have taken the CSPS Green Procurement course (C215). Annual target: 100% |
2022–23 result: 100% |
FSDS: Green procurement incorporates environmental considerations into purchasing decisions and is expected to motivate suppliers to green their goods, services and supply chain. SDG: SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production Target: 12.7 |
Report on integrating sustainable development
CED will continue to ensure that its decision-making process includes consideration of FSDS goals and targets as part of its Strategic environmental assessment (SEA) process. An SEA for a policy, plan or program project includes an analysis of the impacts of the given project on the environment, including on relevant FSDS goals and targets.
Public statements on the results of CED’s assessments are made public when an initiative has undergone a detailed SEA (see here). The purpose of the public statement is to demonstrate that the environmental effects, including the impacts on achieving the FSDS goals and targets, of the approved policy, plan or program have been considered during proposal development and decision-making.
Details on transfer payment programs
Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI)
Start date
October 18, 2018
End date
Ongoing program
Type of transfer payment
Grants and contributions
Type of credit
Funds allocated annually through expense budget
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2018–19
Link to departmental result(s)
Result 1: Businesses in Quebec are innovative and growing.
Result 3: Businesses invest in the development and commercialization of innovative technologies in Quebec.
Link to the department’s Program Inventory
The REGI falls under the Regional Innovation Program and the Targeted or Temporary Support Program.
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The REGI is a national program to foster the economic growth of companies and regions through innovation. In Quebec, it is managed by CED, taking into account the needs of Quebec companies and regions. The REGI has two components:
- Business Scale-Up and Productivity (BSP): investing in and supporting businesses, including high-growth companies, at various stages of their development to accelerate their growth, help them expand, and improve their productivity and competitiveness in both domestic and global markets.
- Regional Innovation Ecosystems (RIEs): building, growing and sustaining inclusive regional ecosystems that respond to business needs and foster an entrepreneurial environment conducive to innovation, growth and competitiveness.
In addition to projects completed as part of this regular program, CED has implemented the following six temporary initiatives by using its terms and conditions:
- The Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative (ARRI) will help the Canadian aerospace sector emerge from the pandemic with the capacity to compete on the global stage. The initiative helps SMEs achieve three objectives: (i) greening their operations and adopting environmentally sustainable practices; (ii) improving productivity; and (iii) strengthening commercialization while promoting integration into regional and global supply chains.
- The Jobs and Growth Fund (JGF) provides funding to businesses and organizations to help create jobs and position local economies for long-term growth.
- The Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) supports the Black community entrepreneurship ecosystem by supporting Black community-led business associations in their ability to provide services such as mentoring, networking, financial planning and business training to Black community entrepreneurs.
- The Women’s Enterprise Strategy (WES) provides financial assistance to non-profit organizations that support women entrepreneurs and help build the capacity of the women's enterprise ecosystem.
- The IDI research component provides financial assistance to support infrastructure projects that contribute to the economic vitality and attractiveness of our communities.
- The National Quantum Strategy (NQS) was launched in 2022 and aims to help SMEs and NPOs adopt, develop and commercialize quantum technologies and products based on these technologies.
Results achieved
Through REGI, CED invested $212.8M to support 589 projects in 2022–23.
Regular programming accounted for 474 projects with total investments of $129.8M, while the six temporary initiatives accounted for $83.0M (115 projects), which break down as follows:
- JGF: $57.2M invested in 79 projects
- ARRI: $13.2M invested in 17 projects
- BEP: $6.1M invested in 10 projects
- WES: $4.3M invested in 7 projects
- IDI (research component): $2.3M invested in 2 projects
- NQS: National Strategy – no expenses in 2022–23*
The six indicators used are mainly based on economic statistics and data from supported projects. The following are the related data (targets and results):
- Number of high-growth firms in Quebec (based on income) – target: 2,800, and result: 2,840
- Value of goods exported from Quebec – target: $86.0B, and result: $107.5B
- Value of clean technologies exported from Quebec – target: $2.6B, and result: $2.7B
- Revenue growth rate for companies supported by CED programs – target: 2.0%, and result: N/A**
- Value of research and development expenditures by firms receiving CED program funding – target: $25M, and result: N/A***
- Percentage of companies engaged in collaborations with higher education institutions in Quebec – target: 22.0%, and result: N/A**
* No project incurred expenses when this table was being prepared, since implementation of the NQS began during the 2022–23 fiscal year.
** “Not available” indicates no new data was published by Statistics Canada during the fiscal year in question (or since the table was last updated).
*** Data not available. CED is currently revising the methodology used to measure this indicator.
Financial, human resources and performance information for CED’s Program Inventory is available in the GC InfoBase.
Findings of audits conducted in 2022–23
N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23
N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23
CED informs the public, SMEs and economic development stakeholders in the regions of Quebec of the opportunities offered by the REGI program on an ongoing basis by means of a wide range of activities and communication tools that target the profile and information needs of the various players involved.
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 actual spending |
2021–22 actual spending |
2022–23 planned spending |
2022–23 total authorities available for use |
2022–23 actual spending (authorities used) |
Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022-23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 0 | 0 | 3,716,000 | 0 | 0 | -3,716,000 |
| Total contributions | 274,960,115 | 250,967,431 | 256,033,055 | 262,816,198 | 212,828,931 | -43,204,124 |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 25,380,296 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 300,340,411 | 250,967,431 | 259,749,055 | 262,816,198 | 212,828,931 | -46,920,124 |
Explanation of variances: The variance between actual and planned spending 2022–23 is mainly due to economic recovery initiatives, specifically the Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative and the Jobs and Growth Fund. Spending for these initiatives was less than planned to comply with the rate at which projects were completed by clients.
Community Futures Program (CFP)
Start date
May 18, 1995
End date
Ongoing program
Type of transfer payment
Contributions
Type of credit
Funds assigned annually through expense budget
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2010–11
Link to departmental result(s)
Result 2 – Communities are economically diversified in Quebec.
Link to the department’s Program Inventory
The CFP is under the Community Vitality program.
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The CFP supports local economic development and strengthens the capacity of communities to develop their full potential in a sustainable manner.
The main objectives of this program are:
- stability, economic growth and job creation;
- local economies that are diversified and competitive in a rural setting; and
- sustainable communities.
CFP recipients are community development organizations and their common non-profit structures (network, fund) that receive non-refundable contributions.
Results achieved
Through the CFP, CED financially supported the following community development organizations in 2022–23:
- the 57 Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs)
- the 8 Business Development Centres (BDCs)
- the CFDC and BDC Network
- Network Capital
CED granted $33.1M to these organizations, spread over 69 projects.
Findings of audits conducted in 2022–23
N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23
N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23
CED informs the public, SMEs and economic development stakeholders in the regions of Quebec of the opportunities offered by the CFP on an ongoing basis by means of a wide range of activities and communication tools that target the profile and information needs of the various players involved.
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 actual spending | 2021–22 actual spending | 2022–23 planned spending | 2022–23 total authorities available for use | 2022–23 actual spending (authorities used) | Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022-23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total contributions | 79,173,093 | 39,470,339 | 33,427,175 | 33,054,322 | 33,054,322 | -372,853 |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 65,000,000 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 144,173,093 | 39,470,339 | 33,427,175 | 33,054,322 | 33,054,322 | -372,853 |
Explanation of variances: CED met the target that it set for itself, as the variance between actual and planned spending was marginal.
Quebec Economic Development Program (QEDP)
Start date
April 1, 2012
End date
Ongoing program
Type of transfer payment
Grants and contributions
Type of credit
Funds assigned annually through expense budget
Fiscal year for terms and conditions
2017–18
Link to departmental result(s)
Communities are economically diversified in Quebec.
Link to the department’s Program Inventory
The QEDP falls under the Community Vitality program and the Targeted or Temporary Support Program.
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program
The QEDP supports the development and economic diversification of the regions and helps them seize promising economic development opportunities for the future. This assistance is also aimed at promoting the regions and encouraging the development of the local economy. More specifically, its purpose is to:
- encourage increased spending by tourists from outside Quebec;
- increase the presence of international organizations;
- strengthen the economic activity of the regions by supporting local business projects; and
- generate investments and economic benefits through the acquisition of collective economic equipment.
In addition to the regular QEDP programming, eight temporary initiatives were also delivered for the regions of Quebec through the QEDP:
- The Tourism Relief Fund (TRF) supports tourism businesses and organizations adapt their operations to meet public health requirements while investing in products and services to facilitate their future growth.
- The Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) aims to help communities build and improve community facilities so they can rebound from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The Regional Air Transport Initiative (RATI) helped maintain and improve air connectivity and regional air transportation services after the pandemic severely affected this sector, which is key to the economic development of communities.
- The Major Festivals and Events Support Initiative (MFESI) is designed to help major Canadian festivals and events that have been hard hit by the economic impacts of COVID‑19 to adapt and enhance their operations in the context of economic recovery.
- The tourism component of the IDI provides assistance to support tourism infrastructure projects that contribute to the economic vitality and attractiveness of our communities.
- The Lac-Mégantic Economic Recovery Initiative (LMERI) aims to support the economic and commercial recovery of the town of Lac-Mégantic following the train accident on July 6, 2013.
- The Jobs and Growth Fund (JGF) provides funding to businesses and organizations to help create jobs and position local economies for long-term growth.
- The purpose of the new Hurricane Fiona Recovery Fund (HFRF) is to support local communities and businesses affected by the storm and to help long-term recovery efforts.
Results achieved
Through the QEDP, CED invested $245.7M to support 667 projects in 2022–23.
Regular programming accounted for 157 projects with total investments of $62.6M, while the eight temporary initiatives accounted for $183.0M (510 projects), which break down as follows:
- TRF: $90.8M invested in 280 projects
- CCRF: $36.3M invested in 188 projects
- RATI: $29.2M invested in 14 projects
- MFESI: $21.2M invested in 8 projects
- IDI (tourism stream): $2.3M invested in 8 projects
- JGF: $1.7M invested in 3 projects
- LMERI: $1.5M invested in 9 projects
- HFRF: New initiative – no spending in 2022–23*
As part of the EDI-OL, CED invested $1.9M in 12 projects.
Three indicators were used to measure CED’s progress at attaining this result. The indicators are mainly based on economic statistics and data from supported projects. The data (targets and results) are as follows:
- Percentage of small and medium enterprises that are majority-owned by women, Indigenous, youths, members of visible minorities or persons with disabilities – target: women: 16.5%, Indigenous: 0.8%, youths: 17.5%, visible minorities: 4.7%, and persons with disabilities: 0.2%, and results: N/A**
- Percentage of professional jobs in science and technology in the Quebec economy – target: 38.0%, and result: 40.1%.
- Amount leveraged per dollar invested by CED in community projects – target: $2.20, and result: $2.91.
* No project incurred expenses when the table was being prepared, since implementation of the HFRF began during the 2022–23 fiscal year.
** “Not available” indicates no new data was published by Statistics Canada during the fiscal year in question (or since the table was last updated).
Findings of audits conducted in 2022–23
N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23
N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23
CED informs the public, SMEs and economic development stakeholders in the regions of Quebec of the opportunities offered by the QEDP on an ongoing basis by means of a wide range of activities and communication tools that target the profile and information needs of the various players involved.
| Type of transfer payment | 2020–21 actual spending |
2021–22 actual spending |
2022–23 planned spending |
2022–23 total authorities available for use |
2022–23 actual spending (authorities used) |
Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022-23 planned) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total grants | 25,000 | 73,489 | 4,040,768 | 82,149 | 82,149 | -3,958,619 |
| Total contributions | 57,269,017 | 100,625,256 | 237,661,115 | 365,345,555 | 245,597,742 | 7,936,627 |
| Total other types of transfer payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total program | 57,294,017 | 100,698,745 | 241,701,883 | 365,427,704 | 245 679 891 | 3,978,008 |
Explanation of variances: The variance between the actual and planned spending is very low. The variations are due to a portion of the planned grants being paid as contributions for operational needs. Based on historic spending, CED paid an equivalent amount in grants compared to previous years.
Gender-based analysis plus
Part 1: Institutional GBA Plus governance and capacity
Governance
Coordination of GBA Plus: Under the direction of the champion director-general, the GBA Plus Responsibility Centre has two resource persons who are tasked with implementing CED’s GBA Plus framework, which was adopted in 2018, to ensure that gender- and diversity-related considerations are included in the pursuit of its mandate for economic development of Quebec regions. In particular, the Centre ensures that GBA Plus is included in CED’s decision-making processes and the design, implementation and assessment of programs so that they consider and reveal the possible impact on the public, including people from under-represented groups in Quebec regions. To do this, CED sits on numerous forums and committees to identify best practices and opportunities for improvement; these committees are as follows:
- The GBA Plus Interdepartmental Committee (Women and Gender Equality Canada)
- The Women Entrepreneurship Strategy Interdepartmental Steering Committee (Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada)
- Federal network for the advancement of gender equality in Quebec and Nunavut (Women and Gender Equality Canada)
- Strategic policy committee for the Montréal Inclusive au travail strategy (Montréal Newcomer Office)
- Human Trafficking Taskforce (Public Safety Canada)
- The equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) working group (inter-RDA [regional development agency])
Beyond GBA Plus governance, CED has begun a review of its internal equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) governance structure, particularly regarding the roles of EDI champions and EDI employee networks, and collaboration between various EDI partners within the Agency. The purpose of this review is to identify needs and propose improvements to develop a more effective structure that will facilitate cooperation, in addition to providing a safe space with employee networks – for example, the CED Black Employees Network.
Capacity
New EDI-related client approach deployed: Developed over an 18-month period thanks in particular to its EDI ambassador network – a community of practice involving its 12 business offices, CED deployed a new approach that applies to all its clientele and programs. This approach seeks to find out how its clients consider components of EDI in their business models and organizational efforts. To equip its business office advisors, custom training was developed and provided over eight sessions during summer and fall 2022. Moreover, CED posted two Internet pages aimed at promoting EDI as a lever of growth and to explain the various steps of creating an EDI plan. Implementing this new approach stems from GBA Plus work that has been carried out since 2018, which revealed the importance of promoting inclusive organizations in order to reduce obstacles to economic participation for under-represented groups in technological and manufacturing sectors that are mainly supported by CED.
Staff awareness and training: CED continues to make its staff aware of GBA Plus- and EDI-related issues to encourage them to think about the best ways to incorporate them into its policies, programs and services. Several Tea and TED Talks were organized for staff, namely as part of GBA Plus Awareness Week and to highlight International Women’s Day. A special conference with two Mi’kmaq panelists who are enthusiastic about regional economic development in Quebec also took place as part of National Indigenous History Month, during National Public Service Week.
Data, evaluations and research: In 2022–23, CED started reviewing annual data collection tools used by intermediary groups supported by the Agency in order to include new categories and definitions of under-represented groups introduced in 2021, and to strengthen the reliability of collected data and CED’s ability to report on the GBA Plus-related impact of its involvement. CED also conducted an evaluation of the Lac-Mégantic Economic Recovery Initiative, in which the GBA Plus component highlighted practices that could be improved in order to ensure accessibility and involvement for under-represented groups, such as creating an effective communication network of local stakeholders among members from these various groups. Lastly, CED worked with McGill University’s Max Bell School of Public Policy as part of a Public Policy Laboratory regarding the inclusion of EDI in regional economic development.
Inclusion of GBA Plus-related considerations in programs: When designing and carrying out tourism-related initiatives for NPO clientele, CED began work identifying inclusive tourism as a priority. This may take shape as part of awareness and support activities for tourism businesses so that services, goods and offers reflect the diverse needs of Quebec’s public and regions and takes them into account.
In addition, CED continues its work on Indigenous economic reconciliation and is adding flexibility to some of its programs for Indigenous clientele in order to be a bigger partner in Indigenous communities and ensure that access to available funding is appropriate. In particular, CED is working on implementing the Inuit Nunangat Policy.
Section 2: Gender and diversity impacts, by program
Core Responsibility:
Developing Quebec’s economy
Program Name:
Regional Innovation
Program goals:
Increase the competitiveness and development of Quebec businesses
Target population:
Specific regions and/or sectors of the economy
| Distribution | Group |
|---|---|
| By gender | First group: Predominantly men (e.g., 80% men or more) |
| By income level | Fourth group: somewhat benefits high income individuals (somewhat regressive) |
| By age group | Second group: No significant generational or inter-generational impacts between youth and seniors |
Specific demographic group outcomes:
This program mainly targets SMEs in science, technology, innovation and manufacturing (STIM) sectors, which are largely owned by men and in which under-represented groups face obstacles or seldom work, while they often lead companies that are outside this economic area. However, the manufacturing sector is one that has a significant ripple effect on the other business lines of Quebec’s economy: manufacturing companies are significant clients of the resource, energy and service sectors, where they create other jobs and wealth. The sector creates indirect jobs in other sectors where there is increased representation of women and under-represented groups. The table below shows that CED supported 68 SME projects (19.8% of the total) and 45 NPO projects (34.6% of the total) of which the organizations were led by people from under-represented groups. The new EDI approach, which was deployed for CED clients, also aims to make clients aware of these obstacles to support their shift towards inclusion and improve the participation of under‑represented groups in all sectors of the Quebec economy.
| Statistic |
Observed results |
Data source | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number and value of SME projects supported of which the majority owners are people from under-represented groups. |
Number: 68 projects or 19.8% of the total Value: $12.7M or 16% of the total |
Program data | Spending |
| Number and value of SME projects supported that are intended for people from under-represented groups. |
Number: 71 projects or 20.6% of the total Value: $17.2M or 21.9% of the total |
Program data | Spending |
| Number and value of NPO projects supported that are led or majority led by people from under-represented groups. |
Number: 45 projects or 34.6% of the total. Value: $14.5M or 28.4% of the total. |
Program data | Spending |
| Number and value of NPO projects supported that are intended for people from under-represented groups. |
Number: 13 projects or 10.0% of the total Value: $3.6M or 7.0% of the total |
Program data | Spending |
Other key program impacts:
Distribution of benefits by gender: The identified distribution corresponds to direct support from CED based on the profile of its clientele and not what is provided by intermediary groups supported by CED. In addition, this distribution does not consider the economic benefits created by supported projects in other sectors where economic participation by women or other people from under-represented groups may be prevalent. In this regard, in 2022–23, $17.4M or 13.4% of CED’s total investments supported projects for SMEs or NPOs that are owned or led by women, out of a total of $129.8M or 66 projects representing 13.9% of projects supported by the entire Regional Innovation program.
Organizational EDI practices: 43 clients supported through the Regional Innovation program completed the EDI appendix in 2022–23; of them, 8 (19%) stated that they had an EDI component in their organizational or business strategy, and 20 (47%) stated that they intended to begin or continue EDI-related efforts.
GBA Plus data collection plan:
People from under-represented groups: The collected data and information is part of processes created by CED for GBA Plus and relevant indicators since 2018–19 and were strengthened in 2021 to include new categories of under-represented groups. The under-represented groups identified by CED are women, youth, Indigenous people, newcomers and immigrants to Canada, persons with disabilities or members of OLMCs, Black communities, racialized communities or 2SLGBTQI+ communities. For more details, please consult our lexicon on our EDI website.
Targets: In the 2022–23 Departmental Plan, CED set targets for supported SMEs that are owned by women, Indigenous people, youths, visible minorities and persons with disabilities. Additional targets for other people from under-represented groups may eventually be set.
Data source: The data is gathered from clientele when funding applications are received and analyzed, namely through the voluntary self-disclosure form, which allows clients to indicate whether they are members of under-represented groups. Moreover, for the sake of ongoing improvement, CED began and has continued work to validate its data collection methods and reporting procedures to ensure data quality.
Core Responsibility:
Developing Quebec’s economy
Program Name:
Community Vitality
Program objectives:
Promoting the vitality of communities
Target Population:
Specific regions and/or sectors of the economy
| Distribution | Group |
|---|---|
| By gender | Third group: Largely gender-balanced |
| By income level | Third group: No significant distribution impacts |
| By age group | Second group: No significant generational or inter-generational impacts between youth and seniors |
Results for specific demographic groups:
This program is mainly intended for NPOs and some SMEs in sectors that operate in local development, the development of regional tourism assets, community development and economic development in official-language minority communities (OLMCs) sectors, in which people from under-represented groups work in greater proportions. In addition, this program includes support for intermediary organizations, the CFDCs (as part of the CFP), which in turn supports entrepreneurship among youths, Indigenous communities and women, in addition to working on revitalizing attractions in rural and remote regions. The table below shows that CED supported 7 SME projects (46.7% of the total) and 136 NPO projects (64.8% of the total) where the SMEs and NPOs were led or majority led by people from under-represented groups.
| Statistic | Observed results 2022–23 |
Data source | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number and value of SME projects supported of which the majority owners are people from under-represented groups. |
Number: 7 projects or 46.7% of the total Value: $1.2M or 40.7% of the total |
Program data | Spending |
| Number and value of SME projects supported that are intended for people from under-represented groups. |
Number: 3 projects or 20.0% of the total Value: $947K or 31.1% of the total |
Program data | Spending |
| Number and value of NPO projects supported that are led or majority led by people from under-represented groups. |
Number: 136 projects or 64.8% of the total Value: $53.3M or 59.2% of the total |
Program data | Spending |
| Number and value of NPO projects supported that are intended for people from under-represented groups. |
Number: 31 projects or 14.8% of the total Value: $4.7M or 5.2% of the total |
Program data | Spending |
Other key program impacts:
Distribution of benefits by gender: The identified distribution corresponds to direct support from CED based on the profile of its clientele and not what is provided by intermediary groups supported by CED. In addition, this distribution does not consider the economic benefits created by supported projects in other sectors where economic participation by women or other people from under-represented groups may be prevalent. In this regard, in 2022–23, $52.1M or 56.0% of CED’s total investments supported projects for SMEs or NPOs that are owned or led by women, out of a total of $93.0M or 125 projects representing 45.6% of projects supported by the entire Community Vitality program.
Organizational EDI practices: Three clients supported through the Community Vitality program completed the EDI appendix in 2022–23; of them, 1 (33%) stated that they had an EDI component in their organizational or business strategy, and 2 (67%) stated that they intended to begin or continue EDI-related efforts.
Community Futures Program (CFP): As part of the CFP, CED contributed indirectly to guidance and entrepreneurial succession for youths through its financial support for CFDCs and BDCs in the Youth Strategy: 634 youth entrepreneurs were funded (loans) by CFDCs-BDCs (35% of funded entrepreneurs were women) for a total amount of $12.5M. This amount includes amounts from the Youth Strategy of CFDCs and BDCs, along with their regular funds.
GBA Plus data collection plan:
People from under-represented groups: The collected data and information is part of processes created by CED for GBA Plus and relevant indicators since 2018–19 and were strengthened in 2021 to include new categories of under-represented groups. The under-represented groups identified by CED are women, youth, Indigenous people, newcomers and immigrants to Canada, persons with disabilities or members of OLMCs, Black communities, racialized communities or 2SLGBTQI+ communities. For more details, please consult our lexicon on our EDI website.
Targets: In the 2022–23 Departmental Plan, CED set targets for supported SMEs that are owned by women, Indigenous people, youths, visible minorities and persons with disabilities. Additional targets for other people from under-represented groups may eventually be set.
Data source: The data is gathered from clientele when funding applications are received and analyzed, namely through the voluntary self-disclosure form, which allows clients to indicate whether they are members of under-represented groups. Moreover, for the sake of ongoing improvement, CED began and has continued work to validate its data collection methods and reporting procedures to ensure data quality.
Core Responsibility:
Developing Quebec’s economy
Program Name:
Targeted or Temporary Support
Program objectives:
Foster the economic growth of companies and regions
Target population:
Specific regions and/or sectors of the economy
| Distribution | Group |
|---|---|
| By gender | Second group: 60% to 79% men |
| By income level | Third group: No significant distribution impacts |
| By age group | Second group: No significant generational or inter-generational impacts between youth and seniors |
Results for specific demographic groups:
This program includes several initiatives that directly benefit entrepreneurship for certain people from under-represented groups – for example, people from Black communities and women. It also includes initiatives aimed at sectors in which people from under-represented groups have a significant presence, namely businesses located on main commercial thoroughfares, tourism companies and companies seeking to begin a green transition and embark on inclusive growth. Other initiatives are concentrated in sectors where people from under-represented groups face obstacles to their full participation, which is the case, for example, for women in the aerospace industry. The implementation of the new EDI approach, which was deployed for CED clients, also aims to make clients aware of these obstacles to support their move towards inclusion and improve the participation of under-represented groups in all sectors of the Quebec economy. For this program, the table below shows that CED supported 86 projects (36.6% of the total) for SMEs that are owned by people from under-represented groups and 198 projects (50.6% of the total) for NPOs that are owned by people from under-represented groups.
| Statistics | Observed results 2022–23 |
Data source | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number and value of SME projects supported of which the majority owners are people from under-represented groups. |
Number: 86 projects or 36.6% of the total Value: $20.4M or 27.8% of the total |
Program data | Spending |
| Number and value of SME projects supported that are intended for people from under-represented groups. |
Number: 79 projects or 33.6% of the total Value: $18.6M or 25.3% of the total |
Program data | Spending |
| Number and value of NPO projects supported that are led or majority led by people from under-represented groups. |
Number: 198 projects or 50.6% of the total Value: $88.9M or 45.5% of the total |
Program data | Spending |
| Number and value of NPO projects supported that are intended for people from under-represented groups. |
Number: 173 projects or 44.2% of the total Value: $82.4M or 42.2% of the total |
Program data | Spending |
Other key program impacts:
Distribution of benefits by gender: The identified distribution corresponds to direct support from CED based on the profile of its clientele and not what is provided by intermediary groups supported by CED. In addition, this distribution does not consider the economic benefits created by supported projects in other sectors where economic participation by women or other people from under‑represented groups may be prevalent. In this regard, in 2022–23, $80.9M or 30.1% of CED’s total investments supported projects for SMEs or NPOs that were owned or led by women, out of a total of $268.7M or 205 projects representing 32.7% of projects supported through the Targeted or Temporary Support program.
Organizational EDI practices: Thirty-seven clients supported through the Targeted or Temporary Support program completed the EDI appendix in 2022–23; of them, 6 (16%) stated that they had an EDI component in their organizational or business strategy, and 13 (35%) stated that they intended to begin or continue EDI-related efforts.
Contribution to national RDA targets: CED contributes to the national targets collectively set by the RDAs for under-represented groups for each of the Budget 2021 stimulus initiatives for which it was logical and feasible to do so based on the objectives and target clientele, namely the TRF for all under-represented groups; the JGF for all under-represented groups; and the ARRI, which has employment targets for women working in this specialized sector. For the other two initiatives, CCRF and MFESI, there are no specific targets given their objectives and targeted clients.
Supplementary information sources:
One component of GBA Plus was considered as part of the Evaluation of the Lac-Mégantic Economic Recovery Initiative (LMERI).
GBA Plus data collection plan:
People from under-represented groups: The collected data and information is part of processes created by CED for GBA Plus and relevant indicators since 2018–19 and were strengthened in 2021 to include new categories of under-represented groups. The under-represented groups identified by CED are women, youth, Indigenous people, newcomers and immigrants to Canada, persons with disabilities or members of OLMCs, Black communities, racialized communities or 2SLGBTQI+ communities. For more details, please consult our lexicon on our EDI website.
Targets: In the 2022–23 Departmental Plan, CED set targets for supported SMEs that are owned by women, Indigenous people, youths, visible minorities and persons with disabilities. Additional targets for other people from under-represented groups may eventually be set.
Data source: The data is gathered from clientele when funding applications are received and analyzed, namely through the voluntary self-disclosure form, which allows clients to indicate whether they are members of under-represented groups. Moreover, for the sake of ongoing improvement, CED started and continues to work on validating its data collection methods and reporting procedures to ensure data quality.
Scales
Gender scale
- First group: predominantly men (e.g., 80% men or more)
- Second group: 60% to 79% men
- Third group: broadly gender-balanced
- Fourth group: 60% to 79% women
- Fifth group: predominantly women (80% or more women)
Income-level scale
- First group: strongly benefits low-income individuals (strongly progressive)
- Second group: somewhat benefits low-income individuals (somewhat progressive)
- Third level: no significant distribution impacts
- Fourth group: somewhat benefits high income individuals (somewhat regressive)
- Fifth group: strongly benefits high-income individuals (strongly regressive)
Age-group scale
- First group: primarily benefits youth, children or future generations
- Second group: no significant intergenerational impacts or impacts on generations between youths and seniors
- Third group: primarily benefits seniors or the baby boom generation
Response to parliamentary committees and external audits
Response to parliamentary committees
Hearing – Standing Committee on Public Accounts – March 1, 2021
COVID-19 performance audit: Report 12: Protecting Canada’s Food System.
In 2021, the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) conducted an audit that focused on “whether selected federal departments and agencies protected Canada’s food system during the COVID‑19 pandemic by effectively designing, delivering, and managing programming to
- help reduce food insecurity in Canada through the Emergency Food Security Fund, the Surplus Food Rescue Program, and the Nutrition North Canada subsidy program; and
- support the resilience of food processors in the agriculture and agri-food and the fish and seafood sectors through the Emergency Processing Fund and the Canadian Seafood Stabilization Fund”.
On March 1, 2022, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Accounts (the Committee) held a hearing on the audit, during which CED appeared with regional development agencies and other departments. The Committee found that the emergency initiatives covered by the audit had helped to confront some effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on various parts of Canada’s food system. However, it made seven recommendations to help the government better protect Canada’s food system, including one made for CED. The government response to each of the recommendations was tabled in the House of Commons.
Response to audits conducted by the Office of the Auditor General of Canada (including audits conducted by the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development)
The audits did not require any response in 2022–23.
Response to audits conducted by the Public Service Commission of Canada or the Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages
The audits did not require any response in 2022–23.
United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and UN Sustainable Development Goals
| UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | 2022–23 planned initiatives | Associated domestic targets or “ambitions” and/or global targets | 2022–23 results |
|---|---|---|---|
| SDG 5: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls | Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES), implemented through the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program, which seeks to help women entrepreneurs expand their businesses through access to funding, talents, networks and expertise. These actions have had a positive impact on the proportion of women business owners and women in management positions in Quebec. |
Global target 5.5: Ensure women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making in political, economic and public life. National goal 5 of the Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF): Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls – Ambition: Canadians are well represented at every level of decision-making. |
As part of the WES contributing to SDG 5, CED supported 7 projects with expenses of $4.3M. This program, which funds support organizations, helps women entrepreneurs expand their businesses through access to funding, talents, networks and expertise. |
| SDG 8: Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all |
Quebec Economic Development Program (QEDP), including the following initiatives:
The following temporary initiatives, delivered through the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program: Community Futures Program (CFP) The purpose of these programs is to promote lasting and sustainable economic growth by fostering business development and the economic vitality of communities, including in a post-pandemic economic recovery context. They have a positive impact on businesses, their growth rate, job creation and per capita GDP growth. |
Global target 8.1: Sustain per capita economic growth in accordance with national circumstances and, in particular, at least 7 per cent gross domestic product growth per annum in the least developed countries. Global target 8.2: Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading and innovation, including through a focus on high value-added and labor-intensive sectors. Global target 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities, decent job creation, entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation, and encourage the formalization and growth of micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises, including through access to financial services. Global target 8.5: By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value. Global target 8.9: By 2030, develop and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products. National goal 8 of the Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF): Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all – Ambition: Canadians have access to quality jobs and Canadians contribute to and benefit from sustainable economic growth. |
As part of programs that contribute to SDG 8, CED supported 352 projects with expenses of $220.1M. The purpose of these programs is to promote lasting and sustainable economic growth by fostering business development and the economic vitality of communities in all regions of Quebec, including in a post-pandemic economic recovery context. |
| SDG 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation. |
Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI), including the following temporary initiatives:
Through the REGI program, CED contributes significantly to promoting sustainable industrialization that benefits the public through the rational use of resources and the increased use of clean and environmentally friendly infrastructure, technologies and industrial processes. |
Global target 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes, with all countries taking action in accordance with their respective capabilities. National goal 9 of the Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF): Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation – Ambition: Canada fosters sustainable research and innovation and Canadians have access to modern and sustainable infrastructure. |
As part of programs that contribute to SDG 9, CED supported 476 projects with expenses of $132.1M. The purpose of these programs is to promote sustainable industrialization that benefits everyone through the rational use of resources and the increased use of clean and environmentally friendly infrastructure, technologies and industrial processes. |
| SDG 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries |
Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP), implemented through the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program, the goal of which is to support organizations led by member of Black communities to support entrepreneurship, which has long been confronted with inadequate funding. Quebec’ tourism companies employ and attract various communities, including under-represented groups, like youths and women. By strengthening this sector, which experienced serious difficulties during the pandemic, CED helps to reduce the inequalities and disparities in economic opportunities in Quebec regions. |
These programs contribute to: Global target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status National goal 10 of the Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF): Reduce inequality within and among countries – Ambition: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced. |
As part of programs that contribute to SDG 10, CED supported 302 projects with expenses of $98.7M. These programs help reduce inequalities and disparities in economic opportunities in Quebec regions. |
| SDG 11: Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable |
Canada Community Revitalization Fund – Quebec, implemented through the Quebec Economic Development Program (QEDP). By helping Quebec communities to complete and improve community infrastructure projects so that they can recover from the economic slowdown caused by the pandemic, this program helps attract a range of Canadians to safe and inclusive community spaces, which will revitalize communities. |
Global target 11.7: By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive and accessible, green and public spaces, in particular for women and children, older persons and persons with disabilities. | As part of the CCRF contributing to SDG 11, CED supported 188 projects with expenses of $36.3M. This program helps attract a range of Canadians to safe and inclusive community spaces, which will revitalize communities. |