Canada’s existing competition regime is unfair for small business. We surveyed over 1,000 small business owners to understand how competition policy has affected them.
The key findings from our survey are:
- Small businesses are increasingly dealing and competing with larger companies
- The increasing size of companies is making it harder for small businesses to compete
- Small business is increasingly affected by concentrated industries
- Small business owners see mergers and acquisitions as a driver of these issues
- Small businesses want more active government engagement to ensure they can compete in a fair marketplace
Share with a friend
Related reading
Built to Reach: How institutional accountability shapes the reach of financial systems
Canada needs a greater diversity of accountability in financing institutions to reach all our viable enterprises.
October 1, 2026ReportEconomic policy,Small business,Community Finance
October 1, 2026
How Private Equity Extracts Value From the Economy | The Walrus Talks
SCP Fellow Rachel Wasserman explains how private equity firms are extracting value from Canadian businesses.
September 29, 2026Changing narratives,Economic policy,OpinionIn the media,The Ownership Solution
September 29, 2026
Getting capital into local businesses and communities must be part of Canada’s investment strategy
Getting capital into local businesses and communities must be part of Canada's investment strategy.
September 25, 2026NewsletterAlternative ownership,What we’re exploring,Economic policy,Small business
September 25, 2026



