How Brampton’s Tariff Action Plan Became a National Model for Economic Resilience 

When global trade disruptions threatened local businesses, the City of Brampton didn’t wait to react, it led. Invest Brampton is proud to share that Brampton’s Tariff Action Plan has earned national recognition from the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC), winning a prestigious Marketing Canada Award in the Recovery Plan category. 

This award is more than a milestone. It’s a validation of Brampton’s proactive, collaborative and strategic approach to economic development. 

Quotes

“This national recognition from EDAC is a proud moment for Brampton. The Tariff Action Plan is a strong example of how the City of Brampton leads with bold, practical solutions to safeguard jobs, strengthen local businesses and drive long-term prosperity. Brampton is a global city and this award underscores our commitment to positioning our community as a resilient and competitive economic hub.” 

• Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton 

“The Tariff Action Plan demonstrates how Brampton responds quickly and strategically to global challenges. By focusing on recovery, diversification and investment, we are equipping our businesses with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing market. This award validates the dedication of our Economic Development Office and our collaborative approach to building resilience across every sector.” 

• Gurpartap Singh Toor, Regional Councillor, Wards 9 & 10; Chair, Economic Development, City of Brampton 

[approved] “Brampton’s strength lies in its innovation, diversity and collaboration. The Tariff Action Plan reflects these values, providing businesses with real-time support while advancing long-term sustainability. This award signals that Brampton is not only meeting today’s challenges head-on but also setting the pace for inclusive, forward-looking economic growth in Canada.” 

• Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor, Wards 1 & 5; Vice-Chair, Economic Development, City of Brampton 

[approved] “We are honoured to receive this recognition from EDAC. The Tariff Action Plan was developed with extensive input from our business community and partners, and it is already delivering measurable results. From launching new trade resources to driving global investment interest, this initiative is positioning Brampton as a national leader in economic recovery and resilience.” 

• Denise McClure, Director, Economic Development, City of Brampton 

Why The Tariff Action Plan Matter

Brampton is home to more than 110,000 businesses, many of which rely on international trade. When tariffs emerged, the risks to competitiveness and employment were immediate and tangible.  

The Tariff Action Plan was created to mitigate those impacts and help businesses pivot, adapt, and grow — particularly within Brampton’s high-impact sectors: 

• Advanced Manufacturing 

• Automotive 

• Metals and Materials 

• Food Processing 

By combining policy, advocacy, and direct business support, Brampton turned a national challenge into an opportunity for growth and diversification. 

What Makes It Distinctive

 Brampton’s Tariff Action Plan was built on three clear pillars that together form a blueprint for long-term competitiveness: 

• Connect, Support & Advocate 

A centralized Tariff Resource Hub provided businesses with real-time updates, tools, and direct guidance. The City also adopted a “Made in Canada” procurement policy, helping local suppliers expand market access and strengthen domestic supply chains. 

• Economic Diversification 

Through the Go Global initiative, Brampton delivered export readiness training, market entry support, and supply chain realignment programming, helping businesses access new markets and expand beyond tariff-impacted regions. 

• Investment Attraction 

By leveraging a strong logistics ecosystem, skilled workforce, and competitive business incentives, Brampton positioned itself as a destination of choice for manufacturing and office investment. 

This wasn’t just a policy, it was a full-spectrum economic strategy designed to align short-term recovery with sustained prosperity. 

Lessons Learned

Three key lessons emerged from this journey: 

1. Leadership Matters: Mayor Patrick Brown’s Tariff Task Force unified local and national partners, creating an action-oriented forum where industry, government, and business leaders shaped tangible solutions. 

2. Listen First: Brampton’s Economic Development Office (EDO) engaged directly with the business community early and often. This two-way communication ensured the plan was grounded in the realities of local industry. 

3. Collaboration is a Catalyst: The plan’s success is rooted in partnership —across sectors, between public and private organizations, and within Brampton’s diverse, entrepreneurial community.  

Within just 30 days, over 200 businesses accessed the Tariff Resource Hub. To date, more than 400 companies have participated in the Go Global webinar series, helping firms navigate new trade pathways and strengthen their competitiveness. 

Looking Ahead: A Blueprint for Economic Resilience 

The Tariff Action Plan demonstrates what’s possible when a city leads with foresight and collaboration. It’s not simply a response to disruption, it’s a model for how communities can build resilient, inclusive, and globally connected economies. 

As Brampton continues to attract investment and drive innovation, we’re committed to sharing our approach with peers across Canada. 

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