Scotiabank is launching a new institute focused on Canada's long-term economic competitiveness while committing more than $100 billion in financing, underwriting and investment over the next five years to support companies and projects in key growth sectors.
The Scotia Growth Institute will bring together insights from Scotiabank, its clients and partners in high-growth sectors to inform policymakers, business leaders and markets about Canada's competitiveness and economic priorities.
The bank said the financing commitment will support Canadian companies and projects aligned with long-term growth priorities, including initiatives identified through the federal government's Major Projects Office and broader economic development agenda.
"Every day, we hear from our clients and partners about the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of their businesses and the broader economy," said Scott Thomson, president and chief executive officer of Scotiabank. "This is why we are launching the Scotia Growth Institute. The decisions we make today around investment, productivity, and competitiveness will influence that future for generations to come. The Institute will examine where Canada can accelerate, and what it will take to turn the country's strengths into lasting prosperity."
Hillman named strategic adviser
Scotiabank is also appointing strategic advisers to support the institute's work, with the bank describing them as leaders with experience in national competitiveness. The advisers will provide strategic guidance and engage with clients and other stakeholders to help translate the institute's findings into outcomes.
Ambassador Kirsten Hillman, a former Canadian ambassador to the United States and an expert in trade and international economic affairs, has been appointed lead strategic adviser for the Scotia Growth Institute.
"Canada does not lack ambition or opportunity," said Ambassador Hillman. "What is needed is sharper analysis, practical solutions, and a clear understanding of where we can compete and lead. I am proud to be joining the Scotia Growth Institute to lead its external advisory group and help bring together evidence and expertise to support this critical work."
The institute's first outputs include an analysis of Canada's major projects pipeline and an interactive tool intended to allow decision-makers to track projects across the country against Canada's economic objectives.
Financing and workforce initiatives
Alongside the financing commitment, Scotiabank said it will dedicate $50 million through its ScotiaRISE program to initiatives intended to build skills, talent and capacity needed for economic growth.
The bank said the partnerships will focus on addressing future labour-market shortages and helping Canadians develop skills for high-growth sectors, innovation and artificial intelligence.
Scotiabank said its financing, investment and workforce initiatives are intended to support investments connected to Canada's longer-term growth priorities. The bank said the work will focus on sectors and projects identified through the federal government's Major Projects Office and broader economic development agenda.
The bank said the Scotia Growth Institute will examine issues affecting Canada's competitiveness and draw on perspectives from its clients and partners in sectors experiencing high growth.
Scotiabank reported approximately $1.5 trillion in assets as of July 31, 2026. The bank trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange under the symbol BNS.