The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) works to create opportunities for economic growth in Atlantic Canada by helping businesses become more competitive, innovative and productive, by working with diverse communities to develop and diversify local economies, and by championing the strengths of Atlantic Canada. Through its Trade Program Sub-activity, ACOA contributes to export performance by strengthening the export capabilities of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), helping them to enter international business markets, and facilitating their international business performance.

The Investment Program Sub-activity is designed to increase awareness of Atlantic Canada and specific regions among potential foreign investors and attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Through its contribution of capital, technologies, markets, and other tangible and intangible resources, FDI can play a significant role in strengthening the economic infrastructure of the host economy and in building the critical industrial mass required to successfully compete in the global economy.

The purpose of this evaluation was to assess the extent to which the Trade and Investment (TI) Program Sub-activities are achieving their expected results and contributing to ACOA's Strategic Outcome. The evaluation also assessed the relevance and performance (i.e. effectiveness, efficiency and alignment with ACOA and government-wide priorities) of the Trade and Investment Program Sub-activities as well as and related funding programs and provided recommendations for future direction of the Trade and Investment Program Sub-activities within the context of ACOA's operations. The scope of the evaluation included ACOA's Head Office and all other regions and focused on the results achieved over the last five years (from 2004-05 to 2008-09).

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