Ottawa, ON (July 14, 2026) – Today TFO Canada affirms its commitment to supporting poverty reduction by increasing the economic well-being of women-managed or owned small and medium sized enterprises (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 Bolivia, TSIs will be supported to develop and deliver training in targeted sectors such as agri-food and textiles for home décor in the context of Economic Complementary Agreements. The project will benefit 70 women-managed or owned SMEs and six TSIs, including one lead implementer, the Bolivian National Chamber of Exporters (CANEB), and five supporting organizations: the Vice Ministry of Foreign Trade and Integration, the Chamber of Industry, Commerce, Services and Tourism (CAINCO), CAMEX – Chamber of Exporters of La Paz, CADEX – Chamber of Exporters of Santa Cruz, and CADEXCO – Chamber of Exporters of Cochabamba.

“Investing in women-owned/women-led SMEs reinforces TFO Canada’s commitment to improving lives, which contributes to catalyzing economic growth through sustainable and inclusive trade in many disadvantaged regions of the world.  The COMPETE project is a shining example of the partnership TFO Canada has enjoyed with Global Affairs Canada over the past 46 years.”

— 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 July 14, 2026.