Chih-Ting Lo runs Eelo Solutions, a one-woman engineering consultancy in Vancouver.

After years of trying to break into the Asian energy efficiency market, Lo feels she has taken a significant step in realizing that ambition following the International Financial Institutions boot camp.

The two-day boot camp, which was held in Vancouver over Monday and Tuesday and attracted 44 companies, was organised by the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism, and Innovation, in partnership with Western Economic Diversification Canada and the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.

The aim of the boot camp was to help British Columbian and Canadian companies bid for projects funded by the largest development banks around the globe, including the World Bank.

For decades Canada has been a leading donor to development banks, but has failed to secure a similarly high proportion of contracts for the various projects funded by the International Financial Institutions (IFI).

Four IFIs - the World Bank, the African Development Bank, the Asian Development Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank - joined 10 companies, including the MMM Group and SNC Lavalin, that had successfully bid on IFI projects to assist Canadian businesses enter the development market.

"This is my second IFI boot camp," said Lo. "Last year in Calgary, I didn't really know what to expect but still found it interesting. This year it's bigger and better organized. The contacts I have made here over the past two days will be invaluable"

Last year, Lo bid on two projects in Asia. "I was short-listed for both, but didn't get either. This time, with the knowledge, insight and contacts I gained from this conference, I am much more confident of making a successful bid."

Lo's focus on energy efficiency and carbon management could prove lucrative. According to Sam Tumiwa from the Asian Development Bank, if Asia is to cut carbon dioxide emissions by 50 per cent by 2050, $316 trillion in investment is required.

The World Bank's Christopher Neal said his organization contributed $8.2 billion to energy projects in 2011, adding that there was "plenty of opportunity" for Canadian companies to be become more involved.

"Canadian companies have to learn how the system works," said Neal. "It's like most things. The more you play, the better you play."

Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation, said the IFI boot camp would prove vital to British Columbia businesses looking to expand internationally. "B.C. was very fortunate to host so many experts that brought together companies, business services organizations and public sector officials all with the goal of securing greater business opportunities in overseas markets. Growing trade in goods and services is crucial to B.C.'s success."

Learn More:

Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan: www.BCJobsPlan.ca

Contact:

Sheldon Johnson
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation
250 213-5811