Ottawa, ON (September 21, 2026) – Today TFO Canada affirms its commitment to contribute to reducing poverty by increasing the economic well-being of women-managed or owned SMEs located in disadvantaged areas in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, by supporting them to overcome key barriers in accessing the Canadian market. 

Thanks to funding from Global Affairs Canada, the COMPETE project will work with public and private sector Trade Support Institutions (TSIs) in the four countries to build their capacity to effectively support women-managed or owned SMEs through the delivery of gender-responsive services and export training. 

In Colombia, TSIs will be supported to develop and deliver training in targeted sectors such as processed foods, home décor, and handicrafts. The project will benefit 70 women-owned or women-led SMEs and six TSIs, including one lead implementer, the Institute for the Promotion of Exports and Investment (ProColombia), and 7 supporting organizations: ANALDEX, Chamber of commerce of Bogota, Colombia Corporate Institute, Colombian Canadian Chamber of Commerce, internationalization department of the municipality of Santa Marta, the Productive and Free woman Fund of Colombia and the Rural Women Program of the Ministry of Agriculture. 

“TFO Canada is proud to support women-owned and women-led SMEs in Colombia to strengthen their export readiness and access new opportunities in the Canadian market – turning market access into sustainable economic growth. The COMPETE project reflects the ongoing partnership we’ve enjoyed over the years with Colombian institutions, as well as our funding partner – Global Affairs Canada.” 

— Steve Tipman, Executive Director, TFO Canada.

More about TFO Canada

Trade Facilitation Office (TFO) Canada is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to catalyze economic growth through sustainable and inclusive trade partnerships for Small and Medium Enterprises in developing countries. TFO Canada assists Small and Medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and Trade Support Institutions (TSIs) from developing countries to access Canadian and international markets through information, advice, and contact services. “Since 1980, TFO Canada’s internationally experienced project staff and sectoral experts have been providing trade promotion and capacity-building services to tens of thousands of SMEs and TSIs from Latin America and the Caribbean, Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

About Global Affairs Canada

Global Affairs Canada defines, shapes and advances Canada’s interests and values in a complex global environment. The department manages diplomatic relations, promotes international trade and provides consular assistance. It leads international development, humanitarian, and peace and security assistance efforts. It also contributes to national security and the development of international law.

Media Contact
Fatima Zahra Idrissi
Program Manager, 
Trade Information and Communications
TFO Canada
1 613 233-3925 ext.0030
[email protected]

Published on September 21, 2026.