The circular economy is a $4.5 trillion economic opportunity that governments across Canada are committed to advancing. It offers opportunity to disrupt historically inefficient linear models of production and consumption patterns, and facilitate self-sustaining economic growth that supports localized supply chains. This represents a unique opportunity for small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

An underutilized yet increasingly powerful lever to kickstart circular economies is public procurement. Annual government spend in Canada is more than $200 billion with 80% —$160 billion—spent locally. When used purposefully and strategically, procurement can create sustaining benefits for SMEs in the communities they serve as the backbone to a functioning circular economy.

To do so, however, SMEs must consider their circular transformation, evolve in tandem with government requirements, and understand how government procurement works.

In support of SMEs and their role in advancing circular economies, Circular Innovation Council, in partnership with Procurement Assistance Canada – ON Region, hosted a webinar to educate and support entrepreneurs and business owners to start their journey toward circularity and myth-bust government procurement:

• Introducing circular economy concepts and the role of procurement
• Showcasing circular SME innovators in action around the world
• Discussing the role of public procurement and links to economic development
• Examining how circular considerations into business models strengthen competitive advantage
• Explaining how to do business with the federal government
• Dispelling myths about selling to government
• Directing resources and complimentary support for SMEs