The FGA presents its advocacy platform for the 2025 provincial elections: An ambitious plan to strengthen Ontario’s Francophone economy

Toronto, February 6, 2025 – With the provincial elections just three weeks away, the Fédération des gens d’affaires francophones de l’Ontario (FGA) is unveiling its advocacy platform, which outlines a series of recommendations for political parties.

This initiative aims to highlight the key issues affecting Ontario’s Francophone business community and to challenge major political parties to ensure a thriving Francophone economy.

“Our platform is not just a wish list—it is a strategic roadmap to strengthen Ontario’s economy. The Franco-Ontarian economy is a driver of growth and innovation that benefits the entire province. We urge political parties to take a clear stand, commit to these strategic matters and make Francophone concerns a priority by recognizing the essential contribution of Francophone entrepreneurs to Ontario’s collective prosperity. Treasuring the economic asset that is Francophonie and bilingualism must be a major pillar of action for our representatives.” – Dominic Mailloux, President of FGA

Amid economic transformation, the FGA intends to play an active role during the election campaign by advocating for concrete measures. Developed through an in-depth analysis of Ontario’s Francophone economy, this platform identifies five strategic areas to drive economic growth for Francophones in the province.

 The five key priorities of FGA:

1. Diversification of export markets
   The FGA proposes to support Francophone businesses in expanding into Francophone markets in Canada and internationally by establishing an export assistance center and developing targeted trade missions. With 16% of global GDP and an annual growth rate of 7%, the Francophonie represents a significant economic opportunity, and these measures would help Franco-Ontarian businesses explore new markets.
2. Creation of a dedicated investment fund for the Francophone economy
   A $5 million fund to support entrepreneurial projects and simplified mechanisms for awarding micro-grants to SMEs. Such an initiative would provide the necessary resources for the successful development of Francophone entrepreneurial projects.
3. Support for business succession (Repreneuriat)
   The FGA aims to highlight the importance of business succession, recognized as a major economic development opportunity, particularly as 60% of Canadian entrepreneurs are over 50 years old. Facilitating the transfer of Francophone businesses would ensure their sustainability and maximize their economic impact.
4. Francophone economic immigration and recognition of foreign credentials
   Addressing labor shortages by facilitating the immigration and integration of skilled Francophone workers, particularly in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and early childhood. This would also help revitalize regions with a high concentration of Francophones.
5. Francophone representation in public governance
   Ensuring the presence of at least one Francophone on the boards of directors of public and parapublic provincial corporations.

For more information on the FGA’s advocacy platform, visit our website.

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 About the Fédération des gens d’affaires francophones de l’Ontario
The Fédération des gens d’affaires francophones de l’Ontario supports, represents, and advances the interests of its members and economic actors. Its mission is to fully promote the francophone business community through policy development based on principles, ingenious business services, and innovative activities focused on the development of francophone commercial markets.

Contact and Interviews
Mélanie Grenier
Communications Manager
media@fedefranco.ca