Global trade is evolving rapidly, with digital technologies now playing a vital role in how businesses access international markets. For Ontario-based exporters — including women-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) — digital adoption is reducing traditional obstacles such as geographic distance, market-entry complexity and administrative burden.
As trade becomes more digital, Ontario’s innovation ecosystem is helping exporters stay competitive and scale with confidence.
Digital platforms supporting export growthOntario’s technology sector includes more than 22,500 tech companies, many of whichdevelop tools that directly support cross-border commerce. E-commerce platforms such asShopify, which originated in Ontario, enable businesses to reach customers globally whilesimplifying payments, logistics and localization. Enterprise software firms such as OpenText,headquartered in Waterloo, support information management and secure document flows— key factors in international trade where compliance and data integrity are essential.A growing number of Ontario-based firms are also developing export-ready applications inartificial intelligence (AI). Toronto companies such as Cohere and Arteria focus on AI-powered tools that improve enterprise productivity, documentation and decision-making — capabilities increasingly valued by international customers. These technologies allowexporters to operate more efficiently across multiple markets while maintaining consistencyand compliance.
Talent and research as trade assets
Ontario’s digital advantage is supported by a strong talent pipeline. Over 86,000 STEM students graduate from post-secondary programs across the province each year, contributing to a workforce capable of developing, adapting and deploying advanced
digital solutions. Ontario also ranks among leading global jurisdictions for AI talent, with
post-graduate programs embedded across engineering, computer science and business
disciplines. Research institutes such as Toronto’s Vector Institute and the Waterloo Data and AI
Intelligence Institute help translate academic research into commercial applications. For
exporters, this means access to innovation that can be incorporated into products and
services destined for global markets.
Building access to digital trade
Recognizing that digital trade depends on reliable connectivity, in March 2021, Ontario
committed $4 billion to expand high-speed internet access across the province, hitting 94%
of households by late 2025, and targeting 100% of the hardest-to-reach locations by 2028.
This investment ensures that businesses in rural and remote communities can participate
fully in digital trade and export opportunities.
Looking ahead
As international markets continue to digitize, exporters that invest in digital tools and skills will be better positioned to compete. Ontario’s role is to support businesses through this
transition, by linking innovation, talent and trade services to help exporters succeed
globally. For women-owned enterprises, digital adoption paired with targeted export
support can help turn global opportunity into sustained growth.
Supporting SMEs through digital adoption
Ontario’s economy is powered by over 500,000 small businesses, many of which are
exploring digital solutions to improve productivity and access new customers abroad. To
support this transition, the provincial government established the Digitalization Competence
Centre (DCC), which provides SMEs with expert guidance, training and up to $115,000 in
targeted financial grants to implement made-in-Ontario digital solutions.
Once businesses have strengthened their digital capabilities, they can also access
international market support through Ontario’s Trade Team composed of international
market consultants and Business Advisory Services for local support. These offices assist
exporters in identifying foreign buyers, making local connections, navigating market-
specific requirements and developing long-term commercial relationships.
Resources for growing your Ontario business
Ontario is well-positioned to support women in business with digital tools, events and
education to help SMEs with digital adoption.
Digital export tools — If you are new to the idea of growing your business internationally,
Ontario can help you determine your export readiness with this custom guide, which also
curates a list of export supports tailored to your needs.
Education and networking — For digital and in-person export events and webinars, explore
Ontario’s calendar of international trade programs and events.
For an overview of all export pathways and resources, see how to grow your business here
and abroad on Ontario.ca.
Visit: Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade (MEDJCT).
Learn more about partnering with WBE Canada: partner@wbecanada.ca
