Beyond the Startup: Can Canada Finally Compete on the Global Stage?

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. Today, we explore why Canada continues to produce innovative startups yet struggles to build globally dominant companies that retain talent, IP, and long-term economic value at home.

Joining us is Adam Froman, Founder and CEO of Delvinia. Adam shares a candid perspective on Canada’s scale-up challenges and the practical shifts needed to strengthen the country’s innovation economy.

Key Highlights

1. The Scale-Up Gap: Adam explains why many Canadian startups struggle to grow globally.

2. Policy and Capital Challenges: Adam shares how economic conditions impact business scaling.

3. Protecting Canadian IP: Adam highlights why talent and intellectual property move offshore.

4. Global Economic Pressure: Adam explains why scaling has become more urgent in 2026.

5. Competing Globally: Adam shares practical solutions to help Canadian firms scale successfully.

Special Thanks to Our Partners:

• UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA
• ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx

For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!

To learn more about how we are supporting the ecosystem, please visit the CanadianSME Small Business Foundation at smbfoundation.ca.

Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation