Canadian tech startups could face significant challenges if U.S. president-elect Donald Trump enacts a 25% tariff on imports. Hardware and cleantech companies are particularly vulnerable, as steep tariffs on physical goods and components could deter investors, said HarbourVest’s Senia Rapisarda. Software-as-a-service (SaaS) firms may be insulated, barring digital trade rule changes.
Investors predict a possible shift of companies and talent to the U.S., compounded by Canada’s higher capital gains taxes and a weak loonie. Benjamin Bergen of the Council of Canadian Innovators urges government-industry collaboration to bolster competitiveness in future-critical sectors like AI and quantum computing.
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