Canada is facing grave economic threats from its closest neighbour and long-time trading partner. While issues such as lagging productivity and sufficient housing supply are longstanding issues, U.S. tariffs and an American expansionist agenda have seized the attention of Canadians and policymakers alike. There is an urgent need to safeguard Canada’s interests and rally around pragmatic policy prescriptions. The urgency is undeniable. This must be the driving ambition for Budget 2025.

Polytechnics Canada’s recommendations to Finance Canada for Budget 2025 include:

• Support business innovation and derisk technology adoption by making significant new investments in polytechnic and college applied research
• Enable quick access to upskilling and reskilling with vouchers to offset the cost of training for employers and individuals
• Better position the skilled trades workforce to respond to demand for new housing, domestic manufacturing capacity and the renewal of transportation infrastructure by prioritizing the retention and completion of apprentices in high-demand trades