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Planning for the Future

Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) works strategically to implement programs and initiatives that encourage entrepreneurship, innovation and community economic development in Western Canada.

The Department's mandate is to promote the development and diversification of the western Canadian economy, coordinate federal economic activities in the West, and reflect western Canadian interests in national decision-making.

WD supports activities that contribute to strong economic growth and an innovative economy.

Our Vision

To be leaders in creating a more diversified western Canadian economy that has strong, competitive and innovative businesses and communities.

WD Total Planned Spending for 2009-2010

WD's $242.5 million* in total planned spending for 2009-10 supports the department's strategic outcomes and is closely aligned with the Government of Canada's priorities.

* In addition to the planned spending, WD will also deliver Federal Budget 2009 commitments including: the western component of the two-year, $1-billion Community Adjustment Fund (CAF) and the $500 million Recreational Infrastructure Canada Program (RINC).

Strategic Outcomes

WD achieves its mandate and vision by undertaking activities that support the Department's four Strategic Outcomes.

Entrepreneurship & Innovation - WD supports initiatives that lead to a competitive, expanded and diversified western Canadian economy.

Business Development & Entrepreneurship

WD helps increase business productivity and competitiveness in Western Canada by providing access to business services and capital for small- and medium-sized businesses.

While WD does not provide direct support to businesses, the department does support the Western Canada Business Service Network (WCBSN), which provides advisory services and loans to small- and medium-sized businesses across the West.
WD supports international trade through the development of trade gateways and corridors to improve market access and by identifying new markets for 'made in the West' ideas, products and services.

Innovation

WD invests in projects that help move innovative ideas and technologies into commercial markets.
WD supports economic diversification by working with academic and research institutions to enhance research and development facilities, skills development and training.

Community Economic Development - WD supports initiatives that contribute to economically viable communities in Western Canada.

Infrastructure

WD delivers federal infrastructure programs in the West, including the Building Canada Fund - Communities Component, to help build the modern infrastructure that is the foundation of long-term economic growth.

Community Economic Planning Development & Adjustment

WD facilitates community economic adjustment for western communities faced with challenging economic circumstances by delivering programs such as the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF), announced in Budget 2009.
WD collaborates with rural economic diversification organizations and other government departments to support the ongoing diversification of rural communities.

Policy, Advocacy & Coordination - WD develops and implements policies and programs that strengthen the western Canadian economy.

Coordination & Collaboration

WD plays a leadership role identifying economic challenges and opportunities across the West and working with other governments, organizations, industry associations and communities to develop and diversify local economies.

Advocacy

WD acts as a champion and advocate for Western Canada and ensures that western interests are represented in the development of national policies, priorities and programs.

Research & Analysis

WD invests in research activities that improve the understanding of Western Canada's economic opportunities and challenges.

Internal Services

WD provides effective and efficient support for the delivery of organizational strategic outcomes.

Internal Services is a government-wide approach to planning, designing, budgeting, reporting and communicating. Internal services enable public programs to operate efficiently and effectively.

WD 2009-2010 Priorities

The Department’s Strategic Outcomes are supported by five operational priorities.

Technology Commercialization – growing new products, services and technologies to bring to market.
Trade and Investment – Stimulating international trade and new investment in Canadian businesses and innovation, including development of trade gateways and corridors.
Business Productivity and Competitiveness – Supporting small businesses to ensure that Canadian entrepreneurs have the tools and skills needed to thrive in the global marketplace.
Rural Diversification – strengthening our communities and industries to ensure long-term prosperity.
Management Excellence - ensuring that the Department continues to have the people, knowledge and skills to effectively deliver on its mandate and contribute to Government of Canada priorities.

More information ….

For the the full Report on WD Plans and Priorities, consult Reports on Plans and Priorities.

For examples of projects funded by WD, consult Departmental Publications.

For more information on funding and funding applications, consult Funding Information.