Canadian Value Index (CVI)
A framework for measuring, validating, and maximizing the economic value generated through public infrastructure investment.
The Canadian Value Index (CVI) provides a structured framework that helps public sector organizations identify, quantify, and assess the economic value generated through infrastructure investments. By transforming economic outcomes into measurable indicators, the CVI enables more informed decision-making, stronger accountability, and greater confidence in the value created by public spending.
What is the Canadian Value Index?
The Canadian Value Index is an evidence-based assessment framework developed to help governments evaluate how infrastructure investments contribute to broader economic objectives. Rather than focusing solely on project costs, timelines, and technical performance, the CVI examines the wider economic benefits associated with infrastructure procurement, delivery, and long-term operation.
The framework provides decision-makers with a comprehensive view of economic impact by measuring factors such as domestic economic participation, supply chain resilience, workforce development, local business engagement, and broader contributions to economic growth.
By creating a standardized approach to economic value measurement, the CVI helps governments better understand where value is created, how it is retained, and what strategies can enhance economic outcomes while remaining compliant with procurement regulations and trade obligations.
Why the CVI Matters
Better Decisions Through Better Data
Governments are under increasing pressure to demonstrate accountability, justify public expenditures, and deliver measurable economic benefits. Traditional project metrics often fail to capture the full value generated by infrastructure investments.
The Canadian Value Index helps organizations:
- Measure economic outcomes using consistent methodologies
- Support evidence based infrastructure planning
- Improve transparency and accountability
- Strengthen procurement decision making
- Identify opportunities to increase domestic economic participation
- Better understand supply chain and resilience impacts
- Align infrastructure investments with broader economic policy goals
How the CVI Works
The Canadian Value Index applies a structured evaluation methodology that examines the economic effects of infrastructure investments across multiple dimensions. The framework combines quantitative analysis, qualitative assessment, and policy considerations to provide a balanced view of economic value.
Each assessment is designed to produce practical insights that support planning, procurement, reporting, and strategic decision-making. The resulting analysis allows organizations to compare alternatives, evaluate outcomes, and identify opportunities to maximize public value throughout the project lifecycle.
The framework is adaptable to a wide range of infrastructure sectors and can be applied at both the project and portfolio levels.
Key Assessment Areas
Domestic Economic Participation
Measures the extent to which infrastructure investments support Canadian businesses, suppliers, and economic activity.
Supply Chain Resilience
Evaluates supply chain strength, diversification, risk exposure, and long-term sustainability.
Workforce & Skills Development
Assesses contributions to employment, workforce capacity, and skills development opportunities.
Regional Economic Impact
Examines economic benefits generated within local, regional, and national economies.
Strategic Economic Value
Evaluates alignment with broader economic priorities, resilience objectives, and long-term growth strategies.
Accountability & Reporting
Provides transparent metrics and reporting frameworks that support governance and public accountability.
Applications
The CVI can support:
- Infrastructure planning and capital investment decisions
- Procurement strategy development
- Economic impact assessments
- Business case development
- Program evaluation and reporting
- Public accountability initiatives
- Pilot projects and innovation programs
- Policy development and implementation
