This segment will offer a historical perspective on the Francophone economic space, as well as a concrete portrait of all economic sectors, based on the most recent data available.

As evidenced by the large number of enrolments in French immersion programs, Canadians value their official languages. But do they know that bilingualism also promotes economic prosperity? Speaking French is a skill that pays off, but its true potential remains little-known.

The presence of bilingual workers is an advantage for the tourism industry, where post-Covid growth confirms a recovery. Both in Canada and abroad, French-speaking tourism is showing great potential. A number of players are making French an asset in their development strategy for sustainable tourism. The industry’s bilingualism could help bring in the capital needed to revamp our tourist attractions.

The cultural industry generates more annual revenue than the automotive industry. Yet cultural entrepreneurs have limited access to our traditional economic development tools. Nova Scotia will long benefit from the economic spin-offs generated by the upcoming Congrès mondial acadien in the province. This justifies the government investments that make it possible. In a minority setting, is it possible to broaden the scope of government action beyond high-profile events? What innovative approaches could maximize the economic value of our cultural wealth?

Human capital is an essential element of economic development. The Canadian media regularly report on shortages that seem to persist in a number of economic sectors. How can we ensure the availability of the quality workforce needed for official-language minority communities (OLMCs) to prosper?

Business support is at the heart of government policies to promote economic development, whether through consulting services, low-interest loans, training programs, tax credits or preferential tax treatment in support of innovation. Do these efforts have the desired effect on French-speaking entrepreneurs? Are different efforts needed? What are the best ways to promote entrepreneurship among Francophone youth and newcomers, two populations capable of countering the economic impacts of an aging demographic?

Human capital is an essential element of economic development. The Canadian media regularly report on shortages that seem to persist in a number of economic sectors. How can we ensure the availability of the quality workforce needed for official-language minority communities (OLMCs) to prosper?

By 2060, the OIF estimates that the number of French speakers will rise from 320 million to over 700 million. Canada’s Francophonie can benefit not only from new Francophone diasporas, but also from foreign investors attracted by a skilled bilingual workforce. What mechanisms are needed to support the development of these new markets? What types of support can we offer Francophone entrepreneurs to ensure that their quest for new markets generates lasting results?