Canadian Tech Open Letter to Defend Diversity & Inclusion

Advocacy | Feb 28, 2025

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A Call to Action for Canada’s Tech Industry - Defending DEI

The Canadian tech industry is facing a critical moment in responding to the push back against diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives otherwise known as 'DEI'.  Almost 1000 tech and innovation founders, executives, and investors have signed an open letter titled "Innovation Includes Everyone" in support of DEI, a initiative spearheaded by Laura Gabor (Ecologicca/What in the Tech), Avery Swartz (Camp Tech), Sarah Stockdale (Growclass), Arlene Dickinson (District Ventures Capital), and Amber Mac (AmberMac Media), among many others, to ensure Canada's tech ecosystem remains inclusive by working together to raise awareness, mobilize support, and advocate for stronger DEI commitments in the tech industry. They believe that diversity drives better ideas, stronger businesses, and a more inclusive economy.

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There have been concerns raised recently about some of Canada’s largest tech companies quietly scaling back support for marginalized communities such as women, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, Black and Indigenous professionals, and newcomers. The open letter calls on the tech community and policymakers to reject efforts that undermine inclusion and to stand firm in support of equity. It emphasizes that Canada’s strength lies in its ability to embrace talent from all walks of life and that businesses should not prioritize profit over people.

Global Trend in Scaling Back DEI

Alarm bells are ringing due to a broader global shift towards policies that weaken protections for marginalized groups.  The political climate, especially in the U.S. with the new Trump administration, has created uncertainty around corporate DEI initiatives, leading to some Canadian corporations with U.S. operations adjusting their commitments to avoid potential backlash.  Corporations are also under economic pressure dealing with budge cuts.  Some businesses are deprioritizing DEI programs citing economic survival.  There are even social activist movements arguing against DEI initiatives that are causing some companies to reconsider their approach in the face of potential consumer pushback.

However, despite these rollbacks, public sentiment in Canada remains largely in favour of DEI programs. A 2020 Statistics Canada survey found that 92% of Canadians aged 15 and older agreed that ethnic or cultural diversity is a Canadian value.   According to Benefits Canada, a 2023 World 50 Group survey revealed that 72% of business leaders increased their organization's investment in DEI over the past year.

The Best Talent Comes from Inclusive Hiring

A common argument against DEI is the idea of hiring the “best person for the job.” However, finding the best talent is impossible without an inclusive hiring approach. By ensuring diverse candidates are considered, businesses in fact expand their talent pool which leads to higher-performing teams. Multiple studies have found that diverse companies outperform their competitors in revenue, innovation, and employee engagement.

NCFA’s Commitment to Inclusion

The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association of Canada (NCFA) has always championed inclusion and the underrepresented, advocating for opportunities that empower individuals and businesses alike. Through awareness-building, collaboration, and action, NCFA remains committed to closing gaps and fostering an equitable innovation ecosystem.

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A common argument against DEI is the idea of hiring the “best person for the job.” However, finding the best talent is impossible without an inclusive hiring approach. By ensuring diverse candidates are considered, businesses in fact expand their talent pool which leads to higher-performing teams. Multiple studies have found that diverse companies outperform their competitors in revenue, innovation, and employee engagement.

Call To Action

Canada must remain a leader in inclusive innovation. If DEI efforts are abandoned, the industry risks losing what makes it a thriving, world-class tech hub. The letter urges all Canadians to take action by supporting businesses that uphold these values and holding those that don’t accountable.  The petition remains open for signatures.  Join now by adding your name to the growing list of supporters at What in the Tech?, and collectively let's ensure innovation truly remains whole!

The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association (NCFA Canada) is a financial innovation ecosystem that provides education, market intelligence, industry stewardship, networking and funding opportunities and services to thousands of community members and works closely with industry, government, partners and affiliates to create a vibrant and innovative fintech and funding industry in Canada. Decentralized and distributed, NCFA is engaged with global stakeholders and helps incubate projects and investment in fintech, alternative finance, crowdfunding, peer-to-peer finance, payments, digital assets and tokens, artificial intelligence, blockchain, cryptocurrency, regtech, and insurtech sectors. Join Canada's Fintech & Funding Community today FREE! Or become a contributing member and get perks. For more information, please visit: www.ncfacanada.org

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