Scotland-Canada Business Week this April presents a significant opportunity for Scottish businesses to connect with Canadian companies who are actively seeking partnership, collaboration and investment opportunities in Scotland. With strong alignment across innovation, energy, food and drink, technology and professional services, the week is designed to move beyond introductions and towards profitable, long-term commercial relationships.
That momentum is already building. A recent online information session, hosted by Inverness Chamber of Commerce alongside Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce and West Highland Chamber of Commerce, marked the first step in bringing Scottish and Canadian businesses together – and demonstrated clear enthusiasm on both sides to explore opportunities well ahead of April.
Supported by the Scottish Government and Scottish Chambers of Commerce, the session welcomed Scottish and Canadian companies from a wide range of sectors including AI, Technology, Energy, Hospitality, Food and Drink, Life Sciences and Legal Services. The breadth of representation led to informed discussion, knowledge sharing and early identification of areas where collaboration could deliver mutual benefit.
A particularly insightful contribution came from a Canadian AI company, which highlighted Canada’s strong interest in Scotland’s innovation ecosystem and the potential for joint development and skills exchange. This reflected a wider theme emerging from the session: Canadian businesses are keen not only to trade with Scotland, but to partner with Scottish companies, learn from their expertise and explore inward investment opportunities.
Speakers from Highlands & Islands Enterprise (HIE) and the British Canadian Chamber of Trade and Commerce in Ontario (BCCTC) provided valuable insight into sector-specific opportunities and current market conditions, while representatives from the Canadian High Commission in London outlined the support available to businesses looking to build transatlantic relationships.
The session concluded with a facilitated networking discussion, enabling participants to make early connections and begin conversations that can be developed further during Scotland-Canada Business Week. Initial discussions – particularly within Food and Drink and Technology – highlighted the value of early engagement in shaping productive, in-person meetings in April.
Commenting on the session, Sarah Findlay, International Trade Manager at Inverness Chamber of Commerce, said,
“What stood out was the genuine appetite from Canadian businesses to collaborate with Scottish companies. These early conversations show the value of engaging now and positioning your business to make the most of the opportunities Scotland-Canada Business Week will bring.”
With preparations continuing, Inverness Chamber of Commerce and its partner Chambers are encouraging Scottish businesses to register for Scotland-Canada Business Week and take advantage of direct access to Canadian companies actively seeking Scottish partners.
Find out more and register your interest by emailing international@inverness-chamber.co.uk