*Maritime industry and icebreakers offer opportunities in Canada. Finland and Canada together with the United States are a part of trilateral ICE Pact collaboration.*
*Picture: Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland*

Canada, with its vast natural resources, growing population, and innovation-driven economy, presents a compelling landscape for Finnish companies seeking international growth and markets. As Canada is rapidly diversifying its trade, the state of play is better than ever before. The EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), Finland’s NATO membership and the Youth Mobility Agreement between Finland and Canada have further laid the land for prosperous bilateral commercial ties. On the political front, Canada and Finland launched in August 2025 a strategic partnership on foreign and security policy.

All of these elements make Finns and Finnish expertise appealing. Today, it easier than ever for Finnish businesses and young professionals to explore opportunities across the Atlantic in Canada. From the icy waters of the Arctic to the quantum labs of Toronto, Canada offers a diverse range of sectors where Finnish expertise is not only welcome but needed. Canada and Finland are both Arctic countries and share similar values.

Canada’s emphasis on developing the Arctic region is growing, and Finnish companies that are global leaders in icebreaker design and cold-climate technologies are uniquely positioned to support this development. Snowhow is something we Finns know and the Canadians value. With increasing maritime traffic in the Arctic region and the need for sustainable Arctic infrastructure, Finnish shipbuilders and marine technology firms will play a pivotal role in enhancing sustainable Arctic maritime industry. One key component is the ice breaker collaboration effort, ICE Pact, between Finland, Canada and the United States, which strengthens Arctic and polar capabilities. Finnish maritime ecosystem has a golden opportunity in Canada or working with Canadians in Finland.

Knowledge related to management of our green gold gives another chance to explore Canadian markets. Canada’s vast forests and commitment to sustainable resource management align perfectly with Finland’s strengths in forestry innovation, bioeconomy solutions and clean tech. Finnish companies that specialize in circular economy models, bio-based materials, and forest machinery are a natural fit to Canada’s evolving forestry sector. Collaborative R&D and technology transfer can further enhance productivity and environmental stewardship.

Team Finland Forestry delegation in British Columbia, Canada in October 2025. Picture: Embassy

Canada is one of the world’s leading mining nations, and the demand for clean technologies and sustainable solutions in mineral extraction is rising. Canadian mining operations benefit from Finnish firms offering on automation, electrification, and environmental monitoring solutions. Finnish solutions reduce carbon footprint and improve efficiency. The push for critical minerals also opens doors for Finnish expertise in sustainable mining practices.

Urban growth and modernizing of infrastructure are other key priorities for Canada. Finnish companies known for modular construction, energy-efficient building materials, and smart city technologies can contribute to Canada’s housing and infrastructure goals. The synergy between Finnish design and Canadian urban planning offers exciting prospects for collaboration in both residential and commercial construction. Canada needs to build more houses, and Finnish companies could be a part of that journey.

Canada’s defense modernization programs and Arctic sovereignty initiatives create opportunities for Finnish companies in defense technology, cybersecurity, and secure communications. Canada has committed to increasing its defence spending to 5 % of the GDP by 2035, meaning 150 billion CAD per year. Canada is currently rapidly increasing its defence spending. Off the shelves products that fit the purpose are now in great demand. Finland has a reputation as a reliable ally whose innovative dual-use solutions stand out. This makes us a valuable partner in Canada’s evolving security landscape. For example, CANSEC defence, security, and emerging technology trade show presents an excellent opportunity for Finnish companies to showcase their knowhow and snowhow. Welcome to Ottawa next May!

Tech-savvy Canada is a global hub for AI and quantum research, with institutions like the Vector Institute and the Perimeter Institute leading the charge. Finnish companies and startups in AI, machine learning, and quantum computing can tap into Canada’s vibrant tech ecosystem through joint ventures, academic partnerships, and innovation hubs. As a kickstart, the Finnish Embassy is hosting a Quantum event in October 2025 for targeted Finnish companies to create commercial and research leads. The horizon holds great potential.

Why Canada and how does the existing framework look like?

Canada’s economic priorities from sustainability and innovation to Arctic development and digital transformation align closely with Finland’s strengths and values.

The CETA free trade agreement eliminates tariffs on most goods, simplifies customs procedures, and enhances market access for Finnish companies. It also supports services, investment, and public procurement which makes Canada one of the most accessible non-EU markets for Finnish exporters. Meanwhile, the Youth Mobility Agreement allows young Finns to work and gain experience in Canada for up to a year, fostering cross-cultural exchange and building future business leaders with international insight. Same goes for Canadians looking for opportunities in Finland.

The time to explore is now because there is great momentum for Finnish companies to expand their footprint in Canada. Whether you're a startup in quantum computing, a seasoned player in forestry machinery or you excel on snowhow or ice (hockey), Canada is ready to welcome Finnish innovations.

Ohoy Finland, Canada is Calling: Strategic Opportunities for Finnish Companies from Snowhow to Quantum Computers