Webinar Replay: Supporting Businesses in Uncertain Times: Response to US Tariffs

As Canadian businesses face growing uncertainty due to U.S. tariff threats, the Cities of Coquitlam and Surrey came together to host a timely webinar: “Supporting Businesses in Uncertain Times: Response to US Tariffs.” This virtual session, held on May 21, 2025, brought together local leaders, national trade organizations, and financial experts to help businesses understand and access critical support.

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Why Now?

With the ever-changing tariff landscape in the US, the economic pressure has been mounting. Businesses across our region have expressed concerns ranging from supply chain disruptions and project cancellations to the need for U.S. subsidiaries and emergency tariff response plans.

In direct response to these challenges, Economic Development staff in Coquitlam and Surrey conducted interviews with affected businesses. Their feedback shaped the foundation of this webinar and helped partners like Export Development Canada (EDC) and the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) refine their relief programs.

What Was Covered

Moderated by Edward Tain (City of Coquitlam) and Farina Fassihi (City of Surrey), the session featured speakers from:

• Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
  John Nan shared insights into BDC’s new Pivot to Grow program, designed to help companies adapt their business models, diversify operations, and weather external shocks like tariffs.
• Export Development Canada (EDC)
  Inyeob Kim and Michael Ansara introduced the Trade Impact Program, which provides financial and advisory support for export-oriented businesses directly affected by trade disruptions.

Key Takeaways

• Business sentiment is tense—with many companies pausing R&D, downsizing, or pivoting operations entirely.
• Support is available now. Relief programs like those from BDC and EDC are open for application and can help with working capital, risk mitigation, and strategic pivots.
• Act early. Waiting for tariffs to escalate could mean missing opportunities to secure the financing and support needed to adapt.

Watch the Full Webinar Recording

If you missed the live event or want to revisit the conversation, the full recording is now available above.

Whether you're a manufacturer navigating cross-border supply chains or a tech firm seeking to expand into the U.S. market, the insights shared in this webinar can help you plan your next steps with confidence.

Need Help Taking the Next Step?
The City of Coquitlam’s Economic Development team is here to support you. Contact us at ecdevinfo@coquitlam.ca for guidance, or to be connected with program representatives from EDC and BDC.

Let’s navigate these uncertain times—together.