Minister of State Goodyear Promotes Canada at World Congress on Information Technology

MONTRÉAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - Oct. 22, 2012) - The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology), on behalf of the Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of Industry, today underlined Canada's information and communications technology (ICT) sector as a premier place for investment. Speaking at the 2012 World Congress on Information Technology (WCIT) in Montréal, Minister of State Goodyear highlighted how the Harper Government is helping firms accelerate innovation and compete in the global economy.

"Our government is setting the conditions for a world-class digital economy by increasing access to capital, digitally skilled talent and export markets," said Minister of State Goodyear. "Canada is fortunate to benefit from a strong and stable government, a long-term approach to the economy, a forward-looking commitment to free trade, a triple-A credit rating and a fiscal plan to restore budgetary balance."

Minister of State Goodyear highlighted Economic Action Plan 2012 measures that encourage growth and innovation in Canada's ICT sector, including a $400-million investment in venture capital activities to support early-stage risk capital and large-scale venture capital funds led by the private sector. He also cited the doubling of funding for the Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP), which provides innovation assistance to small and medium-sized enterprises. In addition, he highlighted the Digital Technology Adoption Pilot Program (DTAPP), which provides funding and guidance to small businesses to help them adopt digital technologies and build digital skills.

"Our government will continue to invest in science, technology and research, the key building blocks of innovation, and cement Canada's position as a premier destination for the world's brightest minds," said Minister of State Goodyear. "We know that tomorrow's successes rest firmly on today's investments and that science powers commerce."

WCIT is held every two years and was last held in Amsterdam in 2010. The Congress attracts ICT industry leaders from Canada and around the world as well as delegates from Canadian and foreign governments.