Past Events
Trade Social at Lavelle
OWIT Toronto hosted its signature Trade Social on June 9, 2025 at the stunning rooftop venue Lavelle, a gathering that brought together international trade professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of meaningful conversation, connection, and collaboration. Set against the backdrop of Toronto’s skyline, this in-person event was designed not just as a networking session, but as a celebration of social capital, the trust, relationships, and shared values that serve as the foundation for opportunity and collaboration across borders and industries.
At the heart of the evening was a powerful reminder: networking is more than collecting contacts it’s about cultivating relationships with purpose. In a highlight of the program, Raquel Boechat, Board Member of the Brazil-Canada Chamber of Commerce (BCCC), led guests through an intentional networking activity, inviting participants to move beyond small talk and engage in deeper, more meaningful exchanges. Her interactive guidance challenged attendees to ask better questions, seek alignment beyond business, and embrace authenticity in their connections.
The event also marked the official kickoff of a strategic partnership between OWIT Toronto and the BCCC, reinforcing a shared mission to support women and allies in global business. With more than 40 professionals in attendance from seasoned executives to rising entrepreneurs, the Trade Social proved that when we create space for people to connect intentionally, we unlock the true potential of community.
OWIT Toronto extends its gratitude to all attendees, partners, and volunteers who contributed to this inspiring evening. We look forward to continuing to build platforms that strengthen social capital, promote inclusive leadership, and empower women in international trade.
Where We’ve Been
Women's Entrepreneurship Forum
OWIT-Toronto exhibited at the 2025 Women’s Entrepreneurship Forum on June 18, hosted jointly by our partners, the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub and the City of Toronto, and attended by close to 300 women in business. Our Co-President, Susan Baka, moderated a panel of ecosystem players to discuss Transforming Your Business during Trade Uncertainties. They included Heather Barker, President of WBE Canada, Stephanie Fontaine, Regional Director, WEConnect International, Canada’s Chief Trade Commissioner Sara Wilshaw, who heads up the Trade Commissioner Service, and Lora Rigutto Vigliatore of the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT).
Here are a few of their tips:
- Leverage all the resources available, including the Trade Commissioner Service, organizations like OWIT (Organization of Women in International Trade), WBE Canada, WEConnect and FITT, bilateral Chambers of Commerce, trade missions and CanExport funding.
- Don’t give up on the US as an export market, despite strained relationships with our U.S. neighbour. The proximity and similarities still make it attractive.
- It’s a good time to diversify, even beyond the U.S. Asia and Europe represent good potential markets that match the strengths of Canadian women exporters.
- Research women’s associations and networks when travelling overseas because they represent a soft landing ground. Attend an event to meet contacts and forge potential partnerships.
- Check out bilateral Chambers of Commerce to tap into Canada’s diaspora who have good connections in their home countries and can provide introductions and support.
- Invest in yourself and your team to learn more about trade, whether that is through training or joining relevant associations or organizations.
Trade Diversification Series – Uncovering the CETA Opportunity
OWIT-Toronto exhibited at the ‘Uncovering the CETA Opportunity’ event, presented by the City of Toronto, on June 11, 2025. Attendees heard from government officials, trade experts, and key stakeholders about how Toronto region businesses—especially women-led enterprises—can tap into the EU market, Canada's second-largest global trading partner. With Canada-EU trade reaching $157.3 billion in 2023, the event highlighted new and expanded opportunities for international growth through the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the European Union. OWIT-Toronto member Susana Vaz shares this summary of the event:
The event marked the official launch of #TradeTO – #Toronto’s Trade Diversification Initiative, with a strong focus on CETA and the new possibilities it opens up for Toronto businesses in the #EU market. The energy in the room was electric, with a fantastic turnout of entrepreneurs, trade experts, and industry leaders who came together for a morning of powerful conversations on how we can better equip City of Toronto’s business community to scale internationally.
Key takeaways from the panels:
- CETA is a massive, underused opportunity for Toronto exporters — it’s time to change that.
- Trade diversification strengthens resilience and reduces reliance on a single market or supply chain.
- Support networks matter — businesses need coordinated services, mentorship, and access to market intelligence to succeed globally.
And if you’re looking to take the next step — the Trade Accelerator Stream - (Starter Company Plus Grant) has officially launched. It’s a tailored support program to help Toronto businesses explore the EU market with training, mentorship and a micro grant. Applications are open until June 30 — don’t miss out.
Trade Resources
Check out these new trade resources:
City of Toronto: Strengthening Economic Resilience Amid Tariff Challenges
As U.S. tariffs continue to impact Canadian businesses, the City of Toronto is stepping up with coordinated efforts to support local industries and protect jobs. Through a multi-level government approach, the City is working closely with both federal and provincial partners to drive a ‘Team Canada’ strategy that prioritizes economic stability, industrial resilience, and trade diversification.
Toronto’s initiative includes support for impacted sectors, enhanced economic intelligence gathering, and new trade programs tailored to help businesses navigate and mitigate the negative effects of foreign protectionist policies. With a sharp focus on inclusive recovery and long-term competitiveness, the City is actively seeking innovative solutions to protect its economy while identifying strategic global opportunities for its businesses.
Find out more
Ontario Together Trade Fund Supporting SME Growth and Supply Chain Resilience
The Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF) is a proactive funding initiative designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ontario adapt to global market changes, particularly those stemming from rising U.S. tariffs and international supply chain disruptions.
With an emphasis on near-term investments, the OTTF supports businesses that are reshoring critical components, developing new markets, and scaling up to serve interprovincial demand. This program is part of Ontario’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic manufacturing, reduce trade vulnerabilities, and increase the province’s economic agility.
Eligible businesses can apply for financial support to make capital investments, improve productivity, and boost their competitiveness in both Canadian and global markets.
Contact Lindsay Patel at lindsay.patel@ontario.ca if you need more info.
Bennett Jones 2025 Mid-Year Economic Outlook
As Canada faces mounting economic uncertainty driven by global tensions and policy disruptions, strategic planning is more important than ever. Bennett Jones’ 2025 Mid-Year Economic Outlook explores how Canada can build resilience, unlock growth, and diversify its trade relationships—especially in light of renewed interest in U.S. relations and internal market improvements.
The report analyzes key projections for GDP growth, inflation, and interest rates through 2027, while highlighting the opportunity to attract private investment and enhance national prosperity and security.
Read the Report
Access the Webinar
Canada-ASEAN Initiatives: Report on Geopolitical Risk and Trade Implications
The Canada-ASEAN Initiatives at the York Centre for Asian Research (YCAR) released its latest Security Symposium Report, which highlights the growing geopolitical uncertainties in the Indo-Pacific region and their potential impact on Canadian trade and investment strategies.
As ASEAN countries face evolving challenges from regional security dynamics and shifting global alliances, Canada’s strategic engagement in Southeast Asia becomes increasingly important. This report provides valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and business leaders seeking to understand how geopolitics may affect trade flows, supply chains, and market access.
Read the Report
G7 Canada: The Kananaskis Summit
G7 Canada: The Kananaskis Summit background book, put together by the G7 Research Group, based at the University of Toronto, is the official publication of the summit and was distributed widely there to many attendees, ranging from heads of state, ministers, academics and media. It contains a special section on trade.
As the G7 marks its 50th anniversary, Canada hosted the historic return to Kananaskis, convening leaders to confront global turbulence. The latest official G7 publication explores the summit’s key priorities: securing a safer world, advancing energy resilience, accelerating the digital transition, and forging future partnerships. With insight from PM Mark Carney, Chancellor Friedrich Merz, President António Costa and many other global voices, this edition offers a bold call for collective action.
Read or download a copy here: https://bit.ly/g7Canada
#TradeTO – Trade Diversification Initiative,
The City of Toronto has launched #TradeTO – Trade Diversification Initiative, an ongoing series designed to equip Toronto’s business community with the insights, tools, and connections needed to expand globally and succeed in a rapidly evolving trade landscape. Sessions will be delivered throughout the year, each one focused on a different international market and free trade agreement (FTA). Check out the Starter Company fund grant https://cityoftoronto.tfaforms.net/forms/view/356989
MEET OUR VOLUNTEERS
[l-r:] Divyakanthi Pagolu, Grace Pham, OWIT member Priti Ruparel, Grace Pham
Welcome to Geetika Joshi, Divyakanthi Pagolu, Vivian Chiokwa, and Grace Pham - four incredible recent graduates who are volunteering their time to support one of our committees. Along the way, they’re gaining firsthand experience with Toronto’s dynamic and diverse trade community. Here’s what they have to say about OWIT-Toronto:
Grace Pham: “It was a pleasure to support OWIT-Toronto at the recent Trade Social Event at Lavelle. As a volunteer at the registration table, I had the opportunity to welcome guests, assist with event coordination, and engage with professionals from a wide range of industries. The experience allowed me to fully immerse myself in the inclusive and empowering atmosphere that OWIT fosters for women in international trade.
“The event opened my eyes to Toronto’s vibrant trade ecosystem and offered a powerful glimpse into the future of AI. Every woman I met brought a unique perspective and energy, making it a truly inspiring and high-value networking experience. A heartfelt thank you to Susan Baka, Susan Langdon and Alma Farias for their warm, thoughtful leadership—it was an absolute joy to work alongside such accomplished and supportive women.”
Vivian Chiokwa: “Volunteering with OWIT at its booth at the City of Toronto’s TradeTO event was a truly enriching experience. It was inspiring to engage with passionate leaders advancing global trade, and I felt proud to support such meaningful conversations on how OWIT is and continues to be a valuable resource, not just for women exploring business opportunities in Europe, but also for those seeking to expand globally.”
Divyakanthi Pagolu: “Volunteering with OWIT-Toronto has been an incredibly enriching experience. I particularly enjoyed connecting with so many inspiring women and gaining insights into international trade when I volunteered at the registration desk at a recent event. The OWIT community is vibrant and welcoming, and I highly recommend getting involved to anyone looking to grow professionally and make a positive impact.”
Geetika Joshi: “Being part of OWIT-Toronto has been such a meaningful experience so far. Helping with newsletters and website updates, I’ve already had the privilege of highlighting some incredible initiatives that are helping shape international trade. It has been really inspiring to see how much care, collaboration, and purpose are invested into every event and resource, and I am grateful to be part of a community that is so committed to uplifting each of its members. A huge thank you to Susan Baka for bringing me on board and making me feel so welcomed.”
Partner UpdateS
July 17: Leaders in Export Excellence - World Trade Centre Toronto
Leaders in Export Excellence (LiEE) is the World Trade Centre (WTC) Toronto’s flagship event that recognizes Canadian global business excellence. LiEE brings together over 200 business leaders, internationally minded Canadian SMEs, and high-level stakeholders from across the country for a dynamic evening of networking, exhibitions, and awards. Celebrate the outstanding achievements in Canada’s export sector on July 17, 2025 from 5 – 9 pm at 100 Queens Quay, E., Toronto
OWIT members can register at the event portal using the WTC–T Alumni discount code: WTC-T Alumni.
July 20: Canadian Made Market – Canadian Women in Food
Calling all foodies, flavour fanatics, and champions of local talent! This free event is a celebration of women entrepreneurs shaping Canada’s culinary scene through creativity, purpose, and passion. Explore a vibrant selection of savoury treats, sweet indulgences, and locally sourced, handcrafted goods. Meet the makers, hear their stories, and support a strong community of collaboration and empowerment.
Admission is free — reserve your spot now here!
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