Carney sets C$1 trillion investment-attraction goal at inaugural Canada Investment Summit

Prime Minister Mark Carney used the opening of the inaugural Canada Investment Summit in Toronto on Sept. 14 to set a goal of attracting up to C$1 trillion in combined domestic and foreign investment over the next five years. The two-day gathering, running Sept. 14-15, is intended to connect capital with major Canadian projects. [1]

The summit’s project pipeline, described as a “Deal Book,” covers energy, critical minerals, advanced technology and large infrastructure. The government’s stated objectives extend beyond inbound capital: it is seeking stronger domestic supply chains, higher productivity and less economic reliance on the United States. [1]

Carney framed the initiative as part of a broader push for greater Canadian economic self-reliance, telling business leaders that Canada should build more at home, expand internal trade and trade more widely with global partners. He pointed to the country’s energy, resources, talent, technology and capital as assets available to support that strategy. [1]

The investment drive arrives during heightened Canada-U.S. trade friction. The source reports that U.S. import bans covering a range of Canadian goods, including alcohol, dairy and motorcycles, are scheduled to take effect on Sept. 29, while goods already subject to an existing 50% duty would remain covered under the stated customs treatment. [1]

For businesses, the immediate development is an investment-attraction target rather than a funding commitment or a completed set of projects. Its practical value will depend on whether summit discussions translate into committed capital, project approvals and investment decisions during the five-year period. The source says the scale of realized investment will become clearer as the summit proceeds. [1]