Books, Big Ideas, Q&As

Innovation and the budget: much policy left on the table

Following on the work of the Advisory Council on Economic Growth, the 2017 budget was long billed as the 'Innovation Budget'. While the Trudeau government’s plans to boost innovation were said to have been trimmed somewhat by uncertainty surrounding the economic impact of the Trump presidency, the budget still contained innovation investment. Economist Jack Mintz breaks it down.

Finance Minister Bill Morneau, pictured March 22, 2017. The 2017 budget wisely avoided raising capital gains taxes. With potential U.S. tax, trade and regulatory reforms in 2017, it will likely be the case that the next budget will have more meaningful impact on innovation by reducing regulatory and tax barriers in Canada, not raise them. Let’s hope that will be the case.The Hill Times photograph by Jake Wright

Opinion

BY JACK M. MINTZ

April 24, 2017

Economic growth per worker depends crucially on two factors: innovations adopted by entrepreneurs and investment. The 2017 federal budget is rightly focused on innovation. Last year, it was rightly focused on public infrastructure. Lacking in both budgets, however, is a plan to support entrepreneurs...

To keep reading, subscribe and become a political insider.

Only $7.76 a week for an annual subscription.

Enjoy unlimited website access and the digital newspaper.

Cancel anytime.

Already a Subscriber?

Get Podcast Newsletter

The Hot Room podcastâ€™s latest episodeâ€”featuring the people shaping politics and policy inside the bubbleâ€”in your inbox.

By entering your email address you consent to receive email from The Hill Times containing news, analysis, updates and offers. You may unsubscribe at any time. See our privacy policy