Across Canada, individuals and business owners alike are feeling the weight of economic uncertainty. Inflation, interest rates, and the possibility of new tariffs are driving real concerns about financial stability and the future of our economy. Now more than ever, Canadians are thinking carefully about where they spend, save, and invest their money—and how those decisions impact the communities they call home.
At Meridian, we understand these concerns because we share them. As a 100% Canadian-owned financial institution, we’re committed to strengthening our economy by supporting our Members and local businesses. This isn’t just a talking point—it’s part of who we are and what we’ve always done.
Banking that puts Canadians first
Meridian has been serving Canadians for more than 80 years, growing to become one of the largest credit unions in the country and the largest in Ontario. Unlike traditional banks, we don’t answer to distant shareholders—our Members are at the heart of every decision we make. That means our profits stay in Canada, reinvested into the communities where our Members live and work.
Through every economic challenge—whether it was the 2008 financial crisis, the pandemic, or today’s economic pressures—our focus has remained the same: providing Canadians with a secure, stable, and trusted financial partner. We’ve grown alongside our Members, helping families buy homes, supporting entrepreneurs in launching and expanding their businesses, and ensuring that local economies continue to thrive.
Strengthening Canada’s economy, together
Choosing Canadian-owned businesses is about more than avoiding tariffs—it’s about resilience. It’s about ensuring that the dollars we spend stay in Canada, working to create jobs, fund businesses, and build stronger communities. At Meridian, we are proud to play a role in this.
We actively support Canadian businesses, offering tailored financing solutions that help entrepreneurs grow and succeed. One example is our Business Accelerator Loan Program, a specialized lending initiative designed to help small businesses navigate economic uncertainty and access the capital they need to expand. Whether it’s a family-run shop looking to scale up or a new startup seeking capital, we’re making it easier for Canadian entrepreneurs to secure funding.
Through this program, eligible businesses—particularly those owned by underrepresented groups such as Indigenous peoples, women, newcomers, visible minorities, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities—can access flexible financing to invest in equipment, expand operations, and fuel job creation—because when they thrive, we all do.
A secure alternative to big banks
In uncertain times, having a financial partner that puts people over profits makes a difference. As a cooperative, we exist solely to serve our Members—not external investors. That means you can trust that our decisions are made with your best interests in mind, not quarterly earnings reports.
For Canadians seeking a secure, stable, and Member-first alternative to traditional banks, Meridian offers a different approach. We’re here to provide financial guidance, competitive rates, and personalized service, all while ensuring that your money stays in Canada, working for you and your community.
Now more than ever, supporting Canadian-owned businesses matters. At Meridian, we’re proud to be part of this movement—standing alongside our Members, investing in local businesses, and building a stronger future together.
