It’s a common misconception that government to government (G2G) contracting means “national government to national government”. While CCC does represent the Government of Canada, we negotiate contracts with the full array of government entities — from municipalities and regional authorities all the way up to the national level, as well as state-owned enterprises, public utilities and more.
Governmental structures and responsibilities differ around the world, so it’s helpful to think of foreign buyers that fit into the G2G model as falling into three categories:
Ministries responsible for major public infrastructure, energy or health
Infrastructure can come under the purview of national, state or regional governments, though it can also be a municipal responsibility. Projects include transportation infrastructure, health, energy and natural resources. Buyers might be commissioning the deployment of an alternative energy grid or a new highway or rail line — infrastructure (quite often) that connects communities and plays a key role in economic development.
These ministries may be looking for international suppliers that have the expertise and experience to bring together construction, operational capabilities and financing for projects of high social and economic importance. They are sensitive to the risks of failed tenders and bribery or corruption and are looking for a procurement approach that delivers a successful project. We vet all Canadian exporters we work with to ensure they’re trustworthy and capable, which adds credibility and authority to your proposal.
Ministries responsible for public safety, national security or defence
Public safety, national security and defence are critical functions that tend to fall under national jurisdiction and involve projects both large and small in scope, from border-management systems to maritime surveillance and emergency service response systems. These projects are typically high-stakes and are often politically sensitive. Our G2G approach assures national governments that they’re entering into a contract with a trustworthy and capable partner who’s backed by the Government of Canada. We can secure sole-source deals, which means we’re able to accelerate the time to contract to ease pressure for both you and your foreign customer.
Sub-national governmental entities and state-owned enterprises
“Sub-national governments” includes municipalities and provincial, state and regional bodies. Municipalities are typically responsible for providing public services and may be seeking to scale up or transform how they deliver those services by accessing expertise or technology from foreign suppliers because they can’t access it domestically. CCC also supports contracting with enterprises that are government-owned but function like businesses (like Canadian Crown corporations). These include public utilities, airlines and facilities such as airports.
Narrow your target
Keep in mind that governments in other countries are typically more centralized than in Canada: knowing your market and how it is structured is key. To access the right level of government, ask yourself where the need you’ve identified is originating. Is it part of a national program or part of a community effort? Next think about who is responsible for implementation. While the government of a country may have set a certain policy priority like rolling out universal broadband to all citizens, state governments may actually have the job of making it happen. And of course, get clear on who is funding the initiative.
Have a viable opportunity? We can help. Contact CCC at 1-800-748-8191, or email info@ccc.ca.
