Forget FDI: How About Local Direct Investment (LDI)?

Date: Thursday, September 17
Time: 11:30am
Room: Main Ballroom

Speakers:
TJ Misra – Co-founder, SAIL Initiative

Description: Economic development teams often dedicate vast amounts of time and budget to chasing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), yet one of the most powerful sources of growth sits right in their own backyards: local capital. Millions of dollars in passive local wealth—from accredited investors and family offices to successful retired business owners—remains untapped simply because the regional infrastructure to connect investors with local entrepreneurs does not exist.  

Presented by the Canadian Startup Capital Association (CSCA), this actionable breakout session flips the traditional investment attraction model on its head. Learn how Economic Development Officers (EDOs) can lead the charge in cultivating Local Direct Investment (LDI). Discover practical strategies for identifying potential local investors, building grass-roots angel networks, launching community seed funds, and establishing deal-flow platforms that keep capital working locally. By activating your community's own wealth, you can build a resilient, self-sustaining financial ecosystem that empowers local founders to start, stay, and scale.