Calgary Economic Development Advocates for Global Trade Diversification in 2026 Community Report
In a year marked by uncertainty and unpredictability, Calgary Economic Development (CED) has issued a compelling call for businesses to diversify their trade strategies. The 2026 Report to the Community, presented on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the Calgary Telus Convention Centre, emphasized the need to reduce over-reliance on single markets while expanding global reach.
Strategic Shift Amid Trade Disruptions
Brad Parry, President and CEO of Calgary Economic Development, highlighted the challenges posed by escalating tariffs, trade disruptions, and regional strife. "We had an over-reliance on one single partner," Parry stated, referencing the United States. He encouraged a balanced approach that maintains trade with the U.S. while actively seeking alternatives elsewhere. "We're keeping those lines of communication open," he explained. "It's just that we have to make the pie bigger."
Parry noted that Canada is increasingly viewed as a trusted trade partner globally, reinforcing the importance of consistent messaging. "Our messaging isn't changing, we're still here," he affirmed, underscoring the resilience of Calgary's business environment.
Success Stories from Local Businesses
The report showcased several Calgary companies that have successfully embraced diversification. Norm Bogner, founder and CEO of Zero Sound, shared how his industrial sound business is scaling globally into Australia, despite only being seven years old. Zero Sound delivers industrial noise suppression technology in Calgary, Latin America, and the United States, achieving accelerated milestones. "We're doing something that no one has done globally," Bogner said. "We are the only ones deploying commercially this active noise control for industry."
For Zero Sound, diversifying outside North America has allowed the company to meet client needs and minimize risk. "The clients still have a need. There's a lot of regions where their attention isn't as pronounced," Bogner explained. "So we're continuing with those operations." By targeting areas less impacted by geopolitical tensions, the company has adopted a strategy of not depending too heavily on any single region.
Impact of CED's Trade Accelerator Program
The CED's trade accelerator program has played a pivotal role in supporting Calgary businesses looking to scale their ventures. In 2025, only 25 percent of all deals facilitated by the program were with the United States—the fewest number of trade deals made with the southern neighbour as companies turned to more reliable markets. Parry revealed that the program has helped Calgary companies expand into 21 countries across six continents, generating $60 million in international revenue across 45 deals. "That's the largest volume we have ever seen at CED," he said, highlighting the program's success in fostering global growth.
Broader Economic Implications
The shift toward diversification is not just a strategic move but a necessity in today's volatile trade landscape. Sergio Llerena, director at Casa Bonita, a Calgary venture selling Mexican chips, salsa, and other food products, noted that global tensions with the U.S. have actually spurred popularity and sales of his product. This example illustrates how local businesses can thrive by adapting to changing market dynamics.
Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas, who attended the event, emphasized the importance of such initiatives for the city's economic future. The report underscores that Calgary's economic growth is expected to outpace Canada's in 2026, driven not just by traditional sectors like oil but also by innovative trade strategies.
Looking Ahead
As Calgary businesses continue to navigate trade uncertainties, the CED's 2026 report serves as a roadmap for sustainable growth. By encouraging diversification and leveraging programs like the trade accelerator, the city aims to build a more resilient and globally connected economy. Parry concluded with a confident note: "We still have the best business environment in Canada," reinforcing Calgary's position as a hub for innovation and international trade.
