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Dear BCCTC members and friends,

Welcome to the latest edition of the BCCTC newsletter. As the Canada–UK business relationship continues to grow, this issue brings you the latest trade, investment, and innovation developments shaping our bilateral markets. From funding opportunities and market intelligence to strategic business insights, we are pleased to keep you informed on the opportunities driving collaboration and growth across the Canada–UK corridor.

This month, we look ahead to the Farnborough International Airshow 2026, where a strong Canadian delegation will showcase our country's world-class aerospace capabilities while building new partnerships in aviation, defence, and innovation. We also celebrate the return of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, an event that reflects the enduring spirit of collaboration and excellence shared across the Commonwealth. At the same time, we mark an important milestone in international trade with the entry into force of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) for the United Kingdom following Mexico's ratification of the UK's accession—creating new opportunities for businesses across all 12 markets.

This edition also features a range of programs designed to help companies from Canada and the UK grow internationally. Learn about Innovate UK's Next Wave – Breakthrough Wave 1 funding competition for creative technology innovators, the City of Toronto's Trade Accelerator Program, the Canadian Technology Accelerator (CTA) for cybersecurity and fintech companies pursuing opportunities in the UK and beyond, and the Digital Service Squad, which provides free digital support for Toronto small businesses. We also highlight the new Memorandum of Understanding between the United Kingdom and Canada to advance digital innovation in construction through Building Information Modeling (BIM), further strengthening bilateral collaboration in infrastructure and technology.

Finally, you'll find expert insights from our members on managing risk while expanding internationally, updates on UK–Canada business and investment, and invitations to upcoming networking events and programs. As always, we thank you for being part of the BCCTC community and look forward to continuing to support your success in building stronger commercial relationships between Canada, the United Kingdom, and our international partners.

The British Canadian Chamber of Trade and Commerce

In this issue:

• Funding Opportunity for Creative Technology Innovators
• TradeTO Trade Accelerator Program
• Investment Incentives in Niagara
• UK–Canada Investment Spotlight
• Expand Your Business Through the Canadian Technology Accelerator
• UK-Canada Trade and Investment Factsheets
• Digital Service Squad: Free Support for Toronto Businesses
• UK and Canada Strengthen Collaboration on the Future of Construction
• UK engineering firm Barhale establishes a permanent base in Toronto, 
• BDO UK and MindBridge Partner to Advance AI-Powered Audits
• Canada, UK & Mexico strengthen trade ties with significant new milestone 
• 4th Annual Canada–UK Business Summit by Canada-UK Chamber of Commerce
• 5 expert tips for working with the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service
• Market Expansion Bulletin By Fiona Brown, BCCTC Member 
• BCCTC Annual General Meeting for members
• BCCTC members corner: From the world of accountants, we bring you special articles and events hosted by BCCTC member ACCA - The global body for professional accountants. Including ACCA’s AI Half-day Conference 2026, an article regarding how Tax exemptions cloud the World Cup, and ACCA’s Certificate in Cybersecurity for Finance Professionals to help you stay ahead of cyberthreats.
• British heritage grooming brand Truefitt & Hill continues to inspire
• Upcoming Events with BCCTC, Partners, and Friends
• Social corner: Come on England!

Funding Opportunity for Creative Technology Innovators

Innovate UK has launched the Next Wave – Breakthrough Wave 1 funding competition, making up to £10 million available to support industrial research projects that advance innovation across the creative industries. UK-registered businesses developing digital products, platforms, or services can apply for grants ranging from £100,000 to £500,000, with funding covering up to 70% of eligible project costs, depending on company size.

The competition is open to projects in the video games, advertising and marketing, film and television, and music, performing, and visual arts sectors. Applications close on 11 August 2026, and prospective applicants are encouraged to consult with Innovate UK before submitting a proposal to confirm eligibility and alignment with the program's objectives.

TradeTO Trade Accelerator Program

Apply to the City of Toronto’s Trade Accelerator Program and get expert training, mentorship, and a $5,000 grant to support your export growth. Toronto-based SMEs, don’t miss out! 

Investment Incentives in Niagara

Businesses and developers planning projects in Fort Erie, Niagara Falls, Port Colborne, Thorold, or Welland may be eligible for valuable financial incentives through the Gateway Community Improvement Plan (CIP). The program offers tax increment-based grants to help offset increases in property taxes resulting from redevelopment, as well as grants to reduce eligible development charges, supporting new investment across these five municipalities.

These incentives are designed to encourage economic growth, redevelopment, and job creation throughout the region. Investors considering a project are encouraged to explore the Gateway CIP overview video to learn more about the program, eligibility requirements, and how these grants can help improve project viability and reduce development costs.

Did you know?

Two years after announcing its investment in a lithium-ion battery separator manufacturing facility in Port Colborne, Asahi Kasei's landmark project continues to make impressive progress. Construction is now well underway, with approximately 1,000 skilled workers on site each day, underscoring the company's long-term commitment to Canada's growing electric vehicle supply chain.

Asahi Kasei's facility is helping position the Niagara Region as a hub for advanced manufacturing and clean technology, creating skilled jobs, attracting investment, and strengthening North America's EV ecosystem. The project represents a significant milestone for the region, reflecting the value of strong partnerships between industry, government, and the local community as they work together to drive future economic growth.

UK–Canada Investment Spotlight

While foreign direct investment (FDI) across Europe declined by 7% in 2025 and the UK experienced a 14% decrease, Northern Ireland stood out with an impressive 65% increase in inward investment projects, according to EY. With 28 new investment projects and Belfast ranking sixth among UK cities for attracting FDI, the region continues to strengthen its reputation as a competitive destination for international business.

For Canadian companies considering expansion into Europe, Northern Ireland offers a dynamic technology and services ecosystem, unique dual access to both UK and EU markets, and strong support for international investors.

BCCTC members Invest Northern Ireland are here to support, learn more here:

Expand Your Business Through the Canadian Technology Accelerator

High-potential Canadian cybersecurity and fintech companies are invited to explore global growth opportunities through the Canadian Technology Accelerator (CTA) program. Designed for businesses with market-ready technologies and products, the program connects participants with customers, partners, investors, and industry experts across 12 leading international technology hubs. Participation is offered at no cost, with companies responsible only for travel and accommodation expenses.

Applications are now open for upcoming UK-focused Cybersecurity and New York & London Fintech programs. Interested companies are encouraged to attend this week's information sessions to learn more about the accelerator, explore international market opportunities, and determine whether the program is the right fit for their global expansion strategy.

Trade and Investment Factsheets

The UK Government has introduced the UK Import Trends Monitor, a new tool designed to help businesses track import volumes and prices for goods entering the UK over the past year. By identifying unusual fluctuations and emerging market trends, the platform provides valuable insights that can support supply chain planning, risk management, and strategic decision-making for companies trading with the UK.

The latest UK Trade in Numbers snapshot highlights the strength of the UK's global trade and investment position, bringing together data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), and UNCTAD. The report provides an overview of the UK's trade relationships, leading imports and exports of goods and services, foreign direct investment (FDI), regional trade performance, and global rankings. Total UK trade reached £1.93 trillion in the 12 months to the end of April 2026, representing a 4.2% increase over the previous year. The next update is scheduled for 31 July 2026. Read the full report here.

Digital Service Squad: Free Support for Toronto Businesses

Toronto businesses looking to strengthen their digital presence can access free support through Digital Main Street, an initiative created by the City of Toronto and the Toronto Association of Business Improvement Areas (TABIA). Backed by partners including Google, Mastercard, Shopify, and Microsoft, the program helps main street businesses adopt digital tools and technologies to improve operations, reach new customers, and support long-term growth.

Through the Digital Service Squad, businesses can receive personalized one-on-one guidance, while additional resources include online learning, live and in-person training sessions, practical digital tools, and case studies highlighting successful projects from businesses, municipalities, and Business Improvement Areas (BIAs). The program offers valuable support for businesses at every stage of their digital transformation journey.

UK and Canada Strengthen Collaboration on the Future of Construction

The United Kingdom and Canada have taken an important step toward advancing digital innovation in the construction sector through a new Memorandum of Understanding between the UK's Department for Business and Trade and the National Research Council Canada. The agreement will promote collaboration on Building Information Modeling (BIM), helping transform the way infrastructure is designed, constructed, and managed while creating new opportunities for businesses in both countries.

Delivered through the UK's Digital Construction International Programme, the initiative will enable both nations to share expertise, accelerate innovation, and support the development of more efficient, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure. The agreement marks the beginning of a new phase of UK–Canada collaboration, with both governments already working together to turn these shared ambitions into practical outcomes for industry.

UK engineering firm Barhale has established a permanent base in Toronto, marking a significant milestone in its international growth strategy and reinforcing its commitment to the Canadian market. The expansion will strengthen the company's specialist civil engineering, tunnelling, and low-carbon infrastructure capabilities, positioning it to support major water and infrastructure projects as both the UK and Canada continue investing in resilient infrastructure and work toward their shared commitment of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

BDO UK and MindBridge Partner to Advance AI-Powered Audits

BDO UK and Canadian technology company MindBridge have announced a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening BDO UK's data-driven audit capabilities through the use of artificial intelligence. By integrating MindBridge's AI-powered analytics platform, audit teams will be better equipped to identify unusual transactions, assess financial risk, and uncover deeper insights from complex financial data.

The collaboration reflects the growing role of AI in the professional services sector, enabling auditors to enhance the quality, efficiency, and accuracy of their work. It also highlights the continued innovation taking place between the UK and Canada, demonstrating how technology partnerships are helping shape the future of financial assurance and risk management.

Canada, UK & Mexico strengthen trade ties with significant new milestone 

A few days ago we celebrate a key moment in the relationship between the United Kingdom, Canada and Mexico: the entry into force of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), following Mexico's ratification of the United Kingdom's accession.

Now trading and investing will be easier and we will be able to see lower tariffs, agile digital trade and greater opportunities to grow, innovate and access new markets.

More than a trade agreement, the CPTPP represents an ongoing conversation between economies that have decided that cooperation remains the best way to grow.

4th Annual Canada–UK Business Summit by Canada-UK Chamber of Commerce

The 4th Annual Canada–UK Business Summit brought together an exceptional group of leaders from business, government, investment, diplomacy, and industry at Canada House in London for a day of insightful discussion and strategic networking. Sessions explored key topics including energy security, infrastructure investment, Arctic development, geopolitical affairs, and the future of Canada–UK collaboration, highlighting the depth of the bilateral relationship and the significant opportunities for continued partnership.

The success of the Summit was made possible through the contributions of the Canada-UK Chamber of Commerce distinguished speakers, moderators, delegates, sponsors, and partners, whose expertise and support helped foster meaningful dialogue and valuable connections. We look forward to welcoming the Canada–UK business community back to London for the fifth edition next year with our partners of the Canada-UK Chamber of Commerce.

5 expert tips for working with Canada's Trade Commissioner Service

As you may know, the Chamber is a private sector non-profit organization that receives no funding from either the Canadian nor British governments.

Global Affairs Canada is responsible for managing, among other responsibilities, Canada’s international trade and development efforts around the world. The Trade Commissioner Service is a network of more than 1000 trade professionals working in Canadian embassies, high commissions, and consulates located in 161 cities around the world and with offices across Canada.

They recently published “5 expert tips for working with the Trade Commissioner Service”- whether you’re exploring a new market or scaling internationally, these tips will help you save time, build stronger connections, and get more out of our support. 

Market Expansion Bulletin

By Fiona Brown, BCCTC Member

This month, Fiona Brown presents Part 3 of her four-part series, Protecting Luxury Brands from Counterfeiting, exploring the growing challenge of counterfeit goods sold through online marketplaces, social media platforms, websites, and fraudulent domain names. The article outlines the practical legal tools available in Canada to help businesses respond quickly and effectively to online infringement, protect their intellectual property, and preserve evidence for future enforcement.



A trusted advisor to more than 100 international companies expanding into Canada, Fiona specializes in helping businesses navigate the Canadian legal landscape with practical, strategic advice. Recognized by leading legal directories, she works closely with clients to develop tailored market entry and brand protection strategies. BCCTC members can also access her collection of market expansion resources, including guides and videos designed to support successful business growth in Canada.

Annual General Meeting 2026

Join fellow members of the British Canadian Chamber of Trade and Commerce for our 2026 Annual General Meeting. 

We will review the year’s work in supporting trade between Canada and the United Kingdom, share key updates, and outline strategic priorities ahead.

Note: BCCTC Annual General Meeting is for BCCTC members only.

From the world of accountants, we bring you special articles and events hosted by BCCTC member ACCA - The global body for professional accountants. Including ACCA’s AI Half-day Conference 2026, an article regarding how Tax exemptions cloud the World Cup, and ACCA’s Certificate in Cybersecurity for Finance Professionals to help you stay ahead of cyberthreats.

ACCA’s AI Half-day Conference 2026

We invite you to join us at our 2026 half-day AI conference on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, to discuss execution, governance, and maintaining the professional scepticism required to navigate this changing landscape with confidence. Register now to gain access to the full event where you can attend live or on demand. Earn 4 CPD units free of charge.

AB Magazine: Tax exemptions cloud World Cup

While football world governing body Fifa has had to increase its World Cup 2026 prize fund and participation fees after Participating Member Associations (PMAs) voiced concerns that they would lose money by taking part, this has caused further concern for the tax positions in which participating countries now find themselves. Read more here.

ACCA Learning: Certificate in Cyber Security for Finance Professionals

Using real-world examples and practical tasks, the Certificate in Cybersecurity for Finance Professionals helps you stay ahead of cyberthreats. You will explore the key behaviours and processes that underpin a positive cybersecurity culture at all levels and learn how you can take action as a finance professional to mitigate cyber-risks. Learn more here.

British heritage grooming brand Truefitt & Hill continues to celebrate timeless style with its Highgrove collection, inspired by the elegance of the British countryside and created for the modern gentleman. The range reflects the brand's longstanding tradition of craftsmanship, offering a refined finishing touch for those who appreciate classic British sophistication.

With the tennis season in full swing, the spotlight once again turns to the All England Lawn Tennis Club, where tradition, sport, and style go hand in hand. Wimbledon remains a reminder that dressing with care never goes out of fashion. Whether attending as a guest, spectator, or host, embracing timeless tailoring and impeccable grooming can elevate both confidence and occasion. Inspired by icons such as Fred Perry and René Lacoste, the season is an ideal time to celebrate enduring elegance—on and off the court.

Join BCCTC Members in Niagara This Summer!

Ready to experience summer like a true Niagara local? Our friends and members across the Niagara region invite you to discover the best of wine country, community, and outdoor fun. From the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival's Wine Country Tailgate Party to local celebrations throughout the season, there's no shortage of reasons to visit one of Canada's most vibrant regions.

Be sure to mark your calendar for Pelham SummerFest, taking place July 16–19 in Fonthill. With four days of free live entertainment, delicious food, family-friendly activities, and a welcoming community atmosphere, it's the perfect summer getaway. We hope to see you in Niagara!

Come on England!

Saturday, July 11 at 5:00 p.m. ET, England takes on Norway in what promises to be an unforgettable Quarter-Final.

FIFA World Cup 2026™ Toronto Secretariat is giving England supporters an early heads-up that a limited number of free General Admission tickets for FIFA Fan Festival™ Toronto at Fort York and The Bentway will be released on Ticketmaster, Friday, July 10, at 9:00 a.m. ET.

For supporters who want to guarantee their place and experience every moment alongside fellow England fans, Premium Experiences remain available and are the best way to secure entry to FIFA Fan Festival™ Toronto.

Tickets are expected to go quickly. For more information about tickets, the event schedule, and entry guidelines, visit www.torontofwc26.ca/FIFAFanFestival.