Canada is helping companies of every size get a fair chance to succeed. But too often in developing countries around the world, financing, such as loans and insurance, is tough to access. That means that opportunities to grow are scarce.

“Small businesses drive innovation and growth. Canada is partnering with a leading Canadian organization to launch an inclusive investment fund for sustainable development on a global scale. By expanding access to financial services for entrepreneurs from marginalized groups, especially women and youths, we are supporting their empowerment and helping to build stronger, more resilient communities.”

- Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development

“We’re proud to be bringing stakeholders into the Aequitas Impact Investment Fund. By pooling our resources, we can do more to promote the economic empowerment of women, young people and entrepreneurs of micro-, small and medium-sized businesses. This investment lines up perfectly with our goal of having a positive impact on gender equality, climate action and sustainable development—not just in Canada, but around the world.” 

- Guy Cormier, CEO, Desjardins Group

• This funding announcement was made after Minister Hussen met today with Gerardo Almaguer, President and CEO of DID, at the Complexe Desjardins in Montréal.

• The Government of Canada is the first external investor in the fund, and this contribution also led to another $15-million investment by Desjardins, bringing the total funding for the Aequitas Impact Investment Fund to $87.9 million.

• Canada has partnered with DID since 1970.

• The fund is part of Canada’s International Assistance Innovation Program, which helps mobilize private investments in developing countries to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. 

• The goal of the DID program is to reduce global poverty by making local financial resources available and by revitalizing local entrepreneurship.

• Micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises in developing countries represent 90% of businesses, as well as more than 50% of employment, worldwide.

Associated links

• Partner profile: Desjardins International Development
• International Assistance Innovation Program
• Desjardins International Development

Olivia Batten
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development
Olivia.Batten@international.gc.ca

Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
media@international.gc.ca
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