Investments in the West

Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) was established to promote the development and diversification of the economy of Western Canada and to advance the interests of the West in national economic policy, program and project development and implementation.

The Department operates under the provision of the Western Economic Diversification Act, which came into force on June 28, 1988. Under this Act, the department is mandated to “promote the development and diversification of the economy of Western Canada and to advance the interests of Western Canada in national economic policy, program and project development and implementation.”

To achieve this mandate, we support initiatives that contribute to the following:

• Strong small-and medium-sized businesses in Western Canada with improved capacity to remain competitive in the global marketplace (Business Development);
   
• A stronger-knowledge based economy (Innovation); and
   
• Communities with increased economic opportunities and capacity to respond to challenges, as well as the necessary investment in public infrastructure (Community Economic Growth).

These programs and services are supported by WD's Policy, Advocacy and Coordination activities.