Miriam Zitner

High speed internet is now so integral to our lives. Accessing government services, health care, education and employment now depends on adequate and affordable internet. There has been substantial progress, but Indigenous and northern communities still lack the speeds needed to fully realize societal and economic benefits. Low-income households also struggle to afford monthly internet bills. What can governments do to bridge this next frontier in closing the digital divide? Join the Institute for Research on Public Policy (IRPP) on June 18th (in person in Ottawa or virtual) for a lunchtime conversation with Ian Scott, former chairperson of the CRTC, Bill Murdoch, chair of the First Mile Connectivity Consortium working to improve First Nations broadband infrastructure, and Elisha Ram, Senior ADM with ESDC's Income Security and Social Development Branch. IRPP president and CEO Jennifer Ditchburn will moderate the panel discussion and Q&A. https://lnkd.in/grBtXjEQ

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It was a packed week at the Union of BC Municipalities convention, from a panel on the rising costs of climate adaptation on Monday to our panel on Youth Voices in Climate Action with Youth Climate Corps, CityHive Vancouver and Youthful Cities, to the Community Energy Association awards on Wednesday to the offsite prefab building summit put on Friday. The real highlight, though, was our emergency resolution defending carbon pricing. After a big effort from Nelson City Council and then a broad coalition of supporters from Climate Caucus, BCMCLC and beyond, we got it to the floor with more than 3/5 support — only to have it pass with overwhelming support on Friday. This comes just as the Conservative Party pushes to scrap the tax and Premier Eby signals wavering support. As Les Leyne from the Times Colonist pointed out: "But after back-to-back appearances at the Union of B.C. Municipalities convention, both of them now appear offside on one key issue with the majority of the 2,200 local government people at the convention. The delegates passed an emergency resolution Friday supporting the carbon tax on consumers, a tax both leaders are now promising to scrap. Rustad has been criticizing the 15-year-old escalating tax for more than a year. Eby last week abruptly announced he would drop it if the federal requirement is removed, because people can’t afford it. Municipal leaders responded by whipping together a resolution that said Eby’s move “poses a threat to the effectiveness of the climate strategy as an essential tool to reduce emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy.” It urges the B.C. government to engage with local leaders to modernize carbon pricing and share a “significant” portion of the billions the carbon tax brings in. The resolution has no direct impact on government. Local leaders, whose hunt for more money from senior governments stretches back 100 years, have an obvious interest in the cash. But still, the vote suggests there is more support for the carbon tax than Eby and Rustad may think." This is more than just a symbolic vote. It sends a clear message to the province: climate action can’t wait. This resolution calls on B.C. to modernize its approach and partner with local governments on a strategy that works for everyone—not just scrap it because it’s politically inconvenient. It’s not the first time Nelson City Council and Climate Caucus have stepped up to defend carbon pricing. Back in 2021, we rallied municipalities from across Canada to intervene at the Supreme Court, and we’ll continue to fight for strong climate policy now. Read more from Les Leyne here:   https://lnkd.in/eKTVsFvh

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📖 In this morning's Orbit Policy Deep Dives newsletter I write about Adoption Readiness Levels - a framework created by the US Department of Energy to support the commercialization of emerging technologies. 📈 Given commercialization is a major issue in Canada, it is worth thinking about how ARLs could be applied here - such as through supporting Lab to Market programming for aspiring entrepreneurs, and through use by VCs in helping make investment decisions. 🔎 Even more exciting for me is how the widespread use of ARLs could help shed light on barriers to emerging technologies for policymakers. Technology pioneers are often deep in the technical weeds, and deep knowledge of policy and market barriers to scaling technologies are not necessarily on their radar. ARLs collectively could help think tanks, sectoral associations, VCs, and governments better understand how to support the growth of emerging technologies. ✨ Then in the Quick Hits section I highlight some recent pieces including some research on barriers to investment in Canadian critical minerals, on federal funding for investigator-initiated research, the UK's new industrial strategy and the City of Toronto's new economic action plan. I hope you enjoy! https://lnkd.in/gEjUfXMH

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Great to see my 2022 report "Canada's Moonshot: Solving Grand Challenges Through Transformational Innovation" cited in this blog by Tim Draimin for Social Innovation Canada. As Tim argues "Our innovation policy will ultimately determine how well our country navigates a very complex global and national future buffeted by a polycrisis rippling with environmental, social, economic and geo-strategic challenges". I couldn't agree more. In the report, I argued for a shift towards a more intentional approach to our innovation policy toolkit - understanding that not all innovation is equal in its outcomes, and some of the challenges we face will never be profitable areas to focus on unless the government plays a more hands-on market-shaping role. The case for this shift is as strong as ever. You can read the blog here: https://lnkd.in/gBdPskvh And can read my original report for the Brookfield Institute for Innovation + Entrepreneurship (now The Dais at Toronto Metropolitan University) here: https://lnkd.in/gQwxtY_C

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Today's Orbit Policy's Deep Dive newsletter looks at: 📈 New data on R&D spending in the Higher Education sector - and how Canada's strong performance there is important but not enough to yield economic and societal benefits. 🤖 The race between AI and regulatory capacity in the US. While Canada's regulators haven't been hobbled in the same way - we are still in the same race to establish guide rails for emerging technology and our attempt to do that is currently in limbo. 🚢 Another important global trend - the move to de-risk supply chains. We're seeing that play out in Canada with billions being spent on EV and battery supply chains, as well as tariffs on Chinese EVs - but this is a trend that goes far beyond any one sector and will have major impacts on our economy over years to come. You can check out the full post here: https://lnkd.in/g3-kKkCc

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I write from a non-partisan perspective, drawing on three years of Political Science education and over 50 years of life experience steeped in history and politics. I have a deep disdain for bullies and a profound love for Canada. My writing aims to inspire Canadians to be proud and upright citizens. Raised a Liberal, I have followed traditional conservatives, but I can no longer align with a movement that feels morally compromised. As we face a looming reckoning, particularly with fears surrounding Project 2025 in the U.S., it’s vital that we distance ourselves from such negativity. Please read this with the seriousness it deserves; the stakes are high for our nation’s future. Andy Straisfeld In the digital age, the power of social media to shape public opinion cannot be overstated. For Canadian conservative politicians, the allure of partnering with social media influencers and content creators may seem tempting, yet it carries significant risks. A growing trend of extremist content creators masquerading as legitimate media is on the rise, and it poses a direct threat to the integrity of our democratic discourse. These individuals often produce misleading clickbait videos, distorting facts to serve their agendas while garnering views and financial support from unsuspecting Canadians. They propagate false narratives under the guise of journalism, presenting themselves as credible sources while actively sowing division and confusion. This manipulation undermines the very principles of democracy and free speech that our society is built upon. By aligning themselves with such figures, conservative politicians may inadvertently legitimize these extremist voices, giving them a platform to spread misinformation. This not only erodes public trust in political institutions but also fosters a toxic environment where lies thrive and constructive debate is stifled. As leaders, it is crucial to recognize the dangers of engaging with these content creators. Instead of seeking short-term gains from viral videos, politicians should focus on fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. Encouraging genuine dialogue and supporting reputable media outlets will ultimately serve the public interest far better than associating with those who manipulate truth for clicks and cash. Canadians deserve better than a political landscape rife with disinformation. By prioritizing integrity over sensationalism, conservative politicians can help cultivate a healthier democratic environment—one that values truth and fosters informed citizen engagement. The stakes are high, and the time to act is now.

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I want to say out loud that several of these folx are my most trusted collaborators, others are new leaders to our shared network. But ALL are experts in this space who usually teach longer (more costly) courses and private client programs. This is a low time/cost commitment that will pay you MAX dividends. How to join a board? What’s the commitment of time and expectations? Going beyond “governance” rules, because many real people (not just the wealthy, powerful or ‘connected’), join a small charity or nonprofit board to support a vision, a cause, a community or leaders they believe in…so how can you be not just productive but a GOOD board member? Join these experts and get the scoop.

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It's great to see so many recent events focused on scaling for sustainability, including: - Toronto Global Forum: Scaling for a Sustainable Future - DeepTech Canada: Scaling Deep Tech for a Decarbonized Future - Scaling Up Bio 2024: Delivering Low Carbon Intensity - CICE Converge: Scaling Climate Solutions But we need to ensure we continue to support the identification, validation, and early-stage investment in novel technologies and R&D in our traditional sectors that will allow us to get there. Critical business support, technical services, and investment continue to be hurdles (and opportunities) in Canada's path to building sustainable companies. #lesstalkmoreaction #deriskearlystage #bioeconomy #lowcarboneconomy

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Check out Laurent Carbonneau's great new piece from Mooseworks which draws parallels between the game of Scrabble and the innovation landscape in Canada. Just as in Scrabble, where strategic placement of high-value words leads to success, Canada's economic growth depends on our ability to create and commercialize complex, high-value products. By focusing on scientific, technological, and productive capabilities, we can turn research into marketable innovations and drive national prosperity. Being intentional about understanding these capabilities and how they relate to each other in Canada will enable us to spend our science and technology dollars much more effectively. https://lnkd.in/gHFpepnz Council of Canadian Innovators | Conseil canadien des innovateurs

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Today, Minister Brenda Bailey released Clean and Competitive: A Blueprint for B.C.’s Industrial Future. The headlines anchor the plan in agritech, which is important and interesting - but this blueprint provides a comprehensive and diverse plan that covers clean energy, climate change mitigation, reconciliation, innovation, digital media, mining, supply chain management and more! It’s a long read, but it lays out BC’s work to drive new investment, create new jobs and seize new opportunities in growing clean energy and sustainable industries. I can clearly see how this blueprint  pulls together great work across ministries to leverage B.C.’s strengths to create good jobs and opportunities. Check it out: https://lnkd.in/gNfd7kgt #StrongerBC #bcpoli #GoodGreenJobs

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Coming off of Venture for Canada's Community Roundtable last night, speaking to local entrepreneurs, founders, researchers, movers and shakers, I’m left feeling inspired about the power of real conversations. In the post-pandemic world where we’re seemingly always online and yet ever-disconnected from one another, there is something radical about sitting across from someone, breaking bread and keeping it real over with a good discussion. Last night, alongside some insightful leaders from The Upside Foundation of Canada, National Research Council Canada / Conseil national de recherches Canada, Knak, The Novas Group and beyond, we had a real a conversation about mental health and its impact on entrepreneurs. No advocacy, no KMs, no “quick fixes” - just a real talk about lived experiences, best practices for employers, stigma, the link between mental health and productivity and how to foster teams that are healthier, stronger and more resilient. ➡ The key takeaway? Entrepreneurs, like everyone, struggle with their mental health from time to time. We need to find ways to support them, while they find ways to support their teams. A combination of hard and soft policies, and an acknowledgement that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, is needed to help tame the heat from working in a 24/7 “hustle culture” environment. 💪 Here’s to breaking down barriers, asking for help and having more real conversations.

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What a fantastic opportunity to dive deeper into AI with this event from Public Policy Forum: Navigating the Opportunities and Risks of Artificial Intelligence. As the first offering for Western Canada, this is bound to be an interesting and insightful day!

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Bob (Robert) Fay rightly argues that (direct quote): *it is essential to recognize that the drivers of wealth creation have changed, while our frameworks have not. And these frameworks apply to our entire economy, not just to the high-tech sector that, unsurprisingly, receives much attention. Traditional sectors such as agriculture, mining, oil and gas, and forestry have long generated substantial wealth for Canadians. What will drive future growth in those sectors, make them more productive and generate greater wealth? It’s investment in intangibles: harnessing the data that can bolster precision agriculture and mining; building the skills to use the advanced analytic techniques; and protecting the intellectual property (IP) that could not only open doors to financing but also ensure that the gains from these investments are captured*.

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This is big. Prime Minister Trudeau just joined small island states and Global South countries in a clarion call to keep the Paris Agreement alive – with all its benefits for people, economies and the planet. At such a critical moment for climate multilateralism and after Canada’s notable absence from previous High Ambition Coalition statements, this sends a strong signal. It is significant to see Prime Minister Trudeau and other world leaders recognize that trillions are needed for climate finance, and that developed countries must lead on delivering it so it is accessible to those facing the worst impacts of the climate crisis. This powerful statement gives Canada a clear work plan as it takes over the G7 Presidency in 2025 – which will determine Prime Minister Trudeau’s legacy on climate justice, sustainable jobs and economic transformation.

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It is always such a pleasure to be invited on as a guest with Adam Walsh on CBC Newfoundland and Labrador to talk about community impacts of a greening economy!Check out the highlights and link below for the full interview: https://lnkd.in/ex4Rz2rj Thank you Ashley Fitzpatrick, Nick Mercer, and Chief Jason Benoit for the incredible thoughts and discussion. The communities on the South West Coast of the island are rightfully skeptic about the plans that have accompanied wind/hydro development in the province. It’s crucial that we come together and highlight the change we want to see when it comes to transparent plans for energy regulation and adaptability, environmental protection in the face of development, financial reciprocity on new revenue streams, and project lifespan to ensure succession plans are in place for rural and affected communities. Renewable energy and natural resource industries cannot exist without strategic community development that offer equitable solutions and informed regulatory frameworks, or else we will be prematurely risking our potential to benefit socially, economically, and environmentally. We can learn a lot from the commercialization of our fisheries, and how that rippled into an aftermath of uncertainty for rural communities. We can prevent this from happening again, in the energy sector specially, but we need all hands on deck, and for our leaders and business partners to seriously consider community engagement, best practices for decision making and industrial development, and contextual measures of success that are defined by experts and those in affected areas. Please check out the link, and feel free to leave comments! The conversation only elevates with your feedback!

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New peer-reviewed Institute for Research on Public Policy (IRPP) study out today by economists Trevor Tombe and Jennifer Winter as part of Shaimaa Yassin's research program Toward a More Equitable Canada and our research support for the Affordability Action Council - Conseil d’action sur l’abordabilité. Does Emissions Pricing Hurt Affordability? Quantifying the Effects on Canadian Households. They break down impacts on energy costs, food, goods and services, considering different household incomes, locations, and circumstances. They also look at whether rebates are large enough to cover costs. The main conclusion is that the effects of emissions pricing are small relative to other drivers of inflation, and that rebates are critical for low-income households. They also note that the slow pace of income growth is equally as - or more - important to overall price increases when looking at ways to address affordability challenges. https://lnkd.in/e-GXESkc

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Whether you agree or disagree with the China EV tariff policy, it’s important to look at the numbers involved. The reality is the policy looks to have disproportionate regional impacts: with primarily industries in central Canada that it is aiming to protect, and prairie agriculture most negatively affected.

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A recent report by the Government of Canada has ranked biodiversity loss as second out of all potential disruptions for its likelihood of occurring and second for the massive impact it will have. And a recent study published in the journal Science (Langhammer et. al, 2024) has confirmed the positive impacts of conservation. We know conservation works - we just need more investment from all sectors of society to allow us to do more, faster. As this new report by the federal government confirms, the risk of inaction on the biodiversity loss crisis is too great for inaction. We need to do more, faster. Nature, and society, demands it.

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