The Business Development Bank of Canada is our main intervener in this area. I will tell you about two of their initiatives.
The first one, which is in progress now, consists of increasing the number of consultants-experts available in this sector. That way, when SMEs come to see them to apply for a loan or obtain management-related advice, the consultants will be able to help them since they will have the appropriate skills in this field. the Business Development Bank of Canada addresses three areas: venture capital, loans and consulting services.
Secondly, it established a special fund of $200 million intended to encourage SMEs to borrow in order to increase their capacities.
Thirdly, it offers internal training to many of the people responsible for loans in order to educate them regarding the importance of information technology. When entrepreneurs come to see them to ask for help, the bank's staff can educate them regarding the importance of the Internet and the ways it can help them grow their companies.