Business Development Bank of Canada

BDC (Business Development Bank of Canada) is a federal Crown corporation and the only bank in Canada dedicated exclusively to entrepreneurs. Its core mission is to support the growth and development of Canadian small and medium-sized businesses through a combination of financing, advisory services, and venture capital. BDC plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and economic development across the country, particularly in sectors that are vital for Canada's future competitiveness.

BDC Capital is the venture capital arm of BDC, positioning itself as one of the largest and most active institutional investors in the Canadian venture capital ecosystem. It invests across the full spectrum of a company's lifecycle, from seed and early-stage development to later-stage growth equity. BDC Capital's investment strategy is broad, encompassing various high-growth sectors such as technology, cleantech, and healthcare. The firm is recognized for its commitment to building a robust venture capital landscape in Canada, often co-investing with private sector funds and supporting initiatives like the Women in Technology Venture Fund and the Industrial Innovation Venture Fund.

With over $5 billion in assets under management, BDC Capital has made a significant impact on the Canadian startup and scale-up scene, having invested in more than 700 companies to date. Their direct investment cheques typically range from $250,000 for early-stage ventures, providing crucial seed capital, up to $25 million or more for established, high-growth companies seeking significant expansion capital. This wide range allows BDC Capital to support entrepreneurs throughout their journey, from initial concept to global market leadership, reinforcing its mandate to drive innovation and create jobs within Canada.