Canada's BDC CEO outlines defence, AI plans through 2030

Isabelle Hudon, president and chief executive of the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), was renewed for a second term lasting until at least 2030. She said the bank will continue its growth trajectory while expanding its role in Canada’s economic sovereignty.

Hudon highlighted a shift toward greater involvement in the defence and security sector, aiming to raise BDC’s exposure from about $400 million to roughly $6 billion. The bank also plans to increase its direct‑investment share, moving toward a 60 % direct and 40 % indirect allocation, and is launching a new direct life‑sciences fund.

In addition, BDC will promote artificial‑intelligence adoption across Canadian businesses and support the creation of an international defence bank, though BDC itself will not be a participant.