Building Bridges Across the Atlantic
Canadian German Chamber of Industry and Commerce will become the official representative of the State of Baden-Württemberg in Canada
Two leading innovation regions are joining forces. Starting November 1, 2025, the German Canadian Chamber of Industry and Commerce (CGCIC) will officially represent the state of Baden-Württemberg in Canada. This new business representation, which will be based in Toronto, is a significant step forward in strengthening economic cooperation between Germany and Canada. It will open new pathways for companies on both sides of the Atlantic.
"We are very pleased to represent Baden-Württemberg in Canada and contribute to the deepening of economic relations between two of the world's leading innovation hubs," said Yvonne Denz, CEO of CGCIC. "Baden-Württemberg's expertise in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and artificial intelligence, as well as its robust SME network, aligns with ideal collaboration opportunities within Canada's dynamic economy. When Baden-Württemberg’s engineering excellence meets Canada's openness and innovative spirit, the result is a powerful foundation for bold ideas and forward-looking partnerships."
The new office will support Baden-Württemberg companies in entering the Canadian market, diversifying their export activities, and fostering innovation partnerships. It will also offer Canadian companies’ direct access to one of Europe’s most dynamic and high-performing business locations.
"Canada is an important partner for Baden-Württemberg - economically, technologically, and strategically. The new business representation will create a bridge between our companies and one of the world’s most exciting markets. Toronto will be Baden-Württemberg’s gateway to Canada,” said Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, Minister of Economic Affairs, Labor, and Tourism of the State of Baden-Württemberg. "Support in entering the market is especially crucial for small and medium-sized enterprises to seize opportunities and expand cooperation."
The partnership will focus on industries that look to the future, such as hydrogen technologies, clean technology, artificial intelligence, sustainable mobility, and aerospace. Both regions share values of sustainability, technological progress, and social responsibility, which creates a strong foundation for long-term collaboration.
"By establishing a presence in Toronto, we are positioning ourselves in an increasingly important future market for Baden-Württemberg. We are creating direct access for our companies and strengthening the state’s international competitiveness — from Ontario to British Columbia," added Minister Hoffmeister-Kraut.
Yvonne Denz, CEO of CGCIC, will lead the new business representation, supported by Leander Andac, Head of Project Management & Market Development and Innovation Scout.
With exports accounting for around 42 percent of its GDP, Baden-Württemberg is one of Europe’s most export-oriented regions. In response to global geopolitical shifts, the state aims to diversify its international trade relations and develop new partnerships in strategically important markets.
Through this initiative, Baden-Württemberg and Canada are strengthening not only trade but also, as Minister Hoffmeister-Kraut emphasizes, “building an innovation axis across the Atlantic.”