This episode of 'Making it in Ontario' unpacks a new data bulletin by the Trillium Network for Advanced Manufacturing that examines claims that the canola industry contributes $43 billion worth of GDP to Canada's economy, more than the automotive, steel, and aluminum sectors combined. Hosts Michelle Samson and Brendan Sweeney discuss the flawed methodology that generated that total, how the Trillium Network generated a more accurate number, and the importance of responsible advocacy.

• 00:14 A New Narrative About Canola’s Economic Contributions
• 01:22 Debunking the Canola Report
• 03:15 Investigating the Canola Report’s Methodology
• 06:13 Trillium’s Methodology and Findings
• 10:23 Responsible vs. Irresponsible Advocacy
• 11:55 Podcast Updates and Reminders

Highlighted Links

• Trillium Network: Cars & Canola: The Economic Contributions of Two Trade-Impacted Industries https://trilliummfg.ca/data-bulletin/cars-canola-canadas-trade-powerhouses/
• The Globe and Mail: Auto sector’s benefits outweigh canola industry’s, Ontario think tank says https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-auto-sectors-benefits-outweigh-canola-industrys-ontario-think-tank/
• National Post: New report challenges canola's $43-billion contribution to GDP https://financialpost.com/commodities/energy/electric-vehicles/report-challenges-canola-43-billion-contribution-gdp?itm_source=index
• St. Thomas Downtown Oktoberfest: https://downtownoktoberfest.weebly.com/

Find Out More About Trillium

• Trillium website: trilliummfg.ca
• Trillium GIS: trilliumgis.ca
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/trilliummfg
• X/Twitter: x.com/TrilliumMfg
• Instagram: instagram.com/trilliummfg
• Facebook: facebook.com/trilliummfg
• Old ‘Making it in Ontario’ Episodes: https://soundcloud.com/making-it-in-ontario-past

About the Making it in Ontario Podcast

Making it in Ontario is your window into what's next in manufacturing. Ontario’s economy depends on manufacturing, but the latest research reveals concerning trends that could undermine the sector’s strength—if we don’t address them. Join us as we talk to CEOs and other leaders at the forefront of the sector about productivity, strategy, talent markets and career opportunities, and the role of manufacturing in a prosperous and sustainable future.

This podcast is an initiative of the Trillium Network for Advanced Manufacturing. It is produced by Storied Places Media.