Highlights from the national survey include:
- 74% of Canadian SMEs have taken steps to improve productivity this year; almost a third (30%) used new technologies.
- Although 86% of respondents reported being in good health, 54% experienced emotional or mental exhaustion during the year.
- More than half (55%) of entrepreneurs are aiming for moderate to strong growth in the next year.
- Increasing profitability, customer retention and cost reduction top the list of priorities for the next 12 months.
MONTREAL, Oct. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Canada navigates a period of economic, technological and geopolitical transformation, small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) owners remain deeply committed to their entrepreneurial journey. According to recently published BDC State of Entrepreneurship 2025 Reportpublished to commemorate the launch BDC™ Small Business Week92% of entrepreneurs would choose this path again if given the opportunity.
“It’s remarkable to see how much entrepreneurs are investing,” said Pierre Cléroux, vice president of research and chief economist at BDC. “Despite the obstacles, these leaders continue to believe strongly in their business mission. Their ability to adapt and innovate is what keeps our economy moving. With more than 142,000 businesses expected to change hands by 2030, these ambitions are more valuable than ever.”
Canadian entrepreneurs continue to demonstrate a strong desire for growth and innovation. In fact, 34% of business owners are targeting moderate growth in the next year, 21% expect strong growth, and 12% are preparing for a radical transformation of their business model. Specifically, 40% plan to improve profitability, 28% are focused on customer retention, and 25% are focused on cutting costs. (Respondents could select up to three answers.)
“What we see is a clear willingness to move forward with a realistic perspective,” Cleroux added. “Entrepreneurs are adjusting their goals to match market realities, and many are looking to reinvent themselves. This ability to look forward, even in uncertain times, is a key driver of economic momentum.”
Access the full BDC State of Entrepreneurship 2025 report. Here.
About the report
The BDC State of Entrepreneurship 2025 Report, released during BDC Small Business Week™, provides a comprehensive and in-depth look at Canadian entrepreneurs and their businesses. It explores the key challenges business owners face and highlights the strategies they use to overcome them. It is based on national and regional survey data as well as exclusive case studies.
The survey was conducted among 1,502 business owners and members of the Sago AskingCanadians online panel between July 17 and August 1, 2025. Data analysis was carried out by BDC's Research and Market Intelligence team. For a probability sample of 1,502 respondents, the maximum margin of error is ±2.5 percentage points, 19 times out of 20. However, since this study is based on a non-probability sample, this information is provided for reference only.
About BDC: 80 Years of Canada's Bank for Entrepreneurs
BDC is the partner of choice for all entrepreneurs who want to access the funding and advice they need to build their businesses and solve the big challenges of our time. Our investment arm, BDC Capital, offers a wide range of venture capital solutions that help grow the most innovative companies. BDC's role in growth means we are in a constant state of evolution: wherever entrepreneurs go and whatever the Canadian economy needs, we will be there to help them meet the challenges. 80 years later, that commitment is still very much alive. Our funding and investments in FY 2025 will add approximately $25 billion to Canada's GDP over the next five years. We are one of Canada's Top 100 Employers and Canada's Top Employers for Diversity, and the first financial institution in Canada to receive the awardB Corp Certification in 2013. For more information about our products and services, and to check out free tools, templates and articles, visit bdc.caor join BDC at social media.
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