International Development Week 2025: Building a better world together
International Development Week (IDW) is an opportunity for Canadians to reflect, understand and be proud of how Canadians help to achieve sustainable development worldwide. Together, we contribute to making our planet more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous.
In 2025, the IDW will once again serve as a platform to highlight Canada’s efforts in international development. Here, at TFO Canada, we are fostering inclusive and sustainable trade, economic cooperation, and social innovation by empowering hundreds of women exporters from developing countries.
Strengthening Global Partnerships for Inclusive Trade
TFO Canada believes that trade is a powerful tool for sustainable development. By supporting small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing countries, TFO Canada helps them access new markets and grow sustainably. TFO Canada’s work creates win-win partnerships, allowing international exporters from developing countries and Canadian importers to collaborate on fair and equitable terms. These partnerships are not only helping to lift communities out of poverty but are also building long-term economic stability for all involved.
Read some success stories
Sutar Kabo: empowering underprivileged rural women through Shantajri
Paramo Snacks – Promotion of sustainable and inclusive rural communities.
Union Sowdjoma – Empowering women and promoting environmentally friendly practices
Empowering Women for Global Impact
Central to TFO Canada’s mission is empowering women exporters in developing countries to become leaders in their communities. Through skills training, mentorship, and market access, TFO Canada has helped thousands of women entrepreneurs thrive. This empowerment creates ripple effects, strengthening communities and advancing gender equality and social inclusion. By working together with local trade support institutions and supporting local development, TFO Canada is building a future where all individuals have the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from economic growth.
Read more about our impact here TFO.Impact-report-2024.3.indd
Promoting Sustainable and Ethical Practices
TFO Canada’s projects emphasize sustainable trade practices that protect the environment while creating economic opportunities. By focusing on equitable trade, ethical sourcing, and environmental sustainability, TFO Canada ensures that the businesses it partners with prioritize social responsibility. These practices not only contribute to a better world but also strengthen communities’ resilience in the face of climate change and environmental challenges.
Collaboration Through Capacity Building
TFO Canada’s efforts in capacity building help local trade support institutions to provide services adapted to the specific needs of SMEs, especially those led by women, and local businesses and producers in developing countries, strengthen their operations and increase their ability to compete and adapt to global markets. By creating or strengthening capacities on export readiness, product quality and adaptation, marketing and negotiations skills, TFO Canada ensures that SMEs are equipped with the tools they need for long-term success. These capacity-building initiatives create a foundation for sustainable development that benefits local populations and supports the global economy.
How Can Canadians Get Involved
Some ideas of how Canadians can engage with TFO Canada’s mission during International Development Week:
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Support Products that are Ethically Traded: Canadians can make a direct impact by purchasing products from exporters from developing countries, especially women exporters, that apply sustainable and equitable practices, and which products have a positive social impact.
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Advocate for Inclusive and Sustainable Development: Canadians can use their voices to advocate for policies and practices that promote equitable trade, environmental sustainability, and social equality, contributing to the movement toward a better world.
TFO Canada is building bridges between countries, fostering inclusive trade, and driving social and economic change focusing on capacity building, sustainable practices, and women’s empowerment contributing to the creation of a world where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive.
Get involved today and make a difference!