A New Model for
Cultural Diplomacy
Next Step Global is an unprecedented initiative — the first time a Canadian organization has led a television show that broadcasts nationwide across China. Trifocal Global Foundation conceived, developed, and now leads NSG: a 12-episode reality series broadcast to 1.4 billion viewers through China's national television network — something no Canadian organization has ever done before.
Working in partnership with China's Fujian Media Group, NSG creates a sustained, high-visibility media channel that no traditional trade mission can replicate. Each season functions as a commercial bridge — connecting Canadian and Chinese entrepreneurs directly with investors, media, and consumers on both sides of the Pacific.
Think BBC's Dragon's Den — reimagined as a tool of commercial diplomacy across the Pacific, led by a Canadian team.
Why This Matters for Canada
Every season of Next Step Global effectively operates as a trade mission — connecting Canadian entrepreneurs directly with Chinese investors, media, and consumers at a scale that traditional delegations cannot achieve.
Toronto as Production Hub
The pre-show Founders' Forge films in Toronto — showcasing the city as a global creative-business destination to audiences across Asia.
Canadian Brand Exposure
Contestants develop market-entry strategies for Canadian brands in China — creating organic, high-value exposure to 1.4 billion consumers.
Two-Way Talent Pipeline
Canadian entrepreneurs participate in Chinese production segments, establishing direct commercial relationships equivalent to bilateral trade delegations.
Canada's Soft Power
Positions Canada as the strategic gateway for Chinese businesses expanding to North America — strengthening Canada's brand as an innovation leader.
Confirmed Partners & Global Reach
-
🇨🇳
Fujian Media Group
Co-production partner. Province-level state media group. Official framework agreement signed February 2025.
-
📺
Southeast TV (东南卫视)
Top-tier national cable network with access to over 1.4 billion viewers across China.
-
🇹🇼
EBC Channels (Taiwan)
Expanding reach across the Taiwan region through established broadcast partnership.
Domestic Streaming (China)
International
Nationwide Broadcast Rights Secured
Trifocal Global Foundation has secured a cooperation framework agreement with Fujian Media Group — one of China's major provincial media groups — granting nationwide broadcast rights across China. This partnership gives NSG direct access to over 1.4 billion potential viewers through Southeast TV and affiliated networks.
17-member Canadian delegation visits Fujian Media Group
David Qi and Yang Guohe sign the cooperation agreement
Senior Officials in Attendance
- • Wang Zhong — Director, Fujian Provincial Radio and Television Bureau
- • Liu Yongtong — General Manager, Fujian Media Group
- • Yang Guohe — Vice Chairman, Fujian Media Group
- • Huang Xiaomin — Secretary-General, Fujian International Cultural and Economic Exchange Center
Media Coverage & Recognition
- • Featured on the official X account of the Chinese Embassy in Ottawa
- • Dedicated 3-minute segment on Fujian Provincial News (省级新闻联播)
- • Covered by the Fujian International Cultural and Economic Exchange Center
Made in China
Made in China is a companion documentary series that explores the story of Chinese enterprises going global — from innovation and manufacturing to culture and brand-building on the international stage. It paves the way for the main show by establishing the context, stakes, and ambition behind cross-border entrepreneurship.
Crucially, the documentary positions Canada as the mandatory first step for Chinese companies entering North America. Through on-the-ground filming across Canadian cities, Made in China showcases Canada's business environment, innovation ecosystem, and multicultural advantages — giving Canadian policies, cities, and businesses direct exposure to over 1.4 billion viewers on nationwide Chinese television.
Canadian Cities on Screen
Showcases Toronto, Vancouver, and other cities as global-ready business destinations to a nationwide Chinese audience.
Policy & Trade Promotion
Highlights Canadian trade policies, immigration pathways, and investment incentives directly to Chinese business audiences.
Business Partnerships
Features Canadian companies and entrepreneurs as natural partners for Chinese enterprises entering the North American market.
Nationwide Broadcast
Distributed through the same Fujian Media Group network — reaching all of China via Southeast TV and affiliated platforms.
Made in China — exploring Chinese innovation going global, with Canada as the gateway
We're Looking for Judges
Next Step Global is assembling a world-class panel of judges — industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and cultural figures who can evaluate contestants on business strategy, brand-building, and cross-border innovation.
Business Leaders
CEOs, founders, and executives with cross-border business experience.
Cultural Ambassadors
Public figures and thought leaders who represent Canada-China relations.
Innovation Experts
Investors, advisors, and specialists in branding, marketing, and global expansion.
Production Roadmap
Framework Agreement Signed
Cooperation agreement with Fujian Media Group. Nationwide broadcast rights secured for China.
Official Media Recognition
Chinese Embassy in Canada featured the project. 3-minute Fujian Provincial News segment.
Founders' Forge Pre-Show
8-day intensive filmed in Toronto. Casting, sponsor onboarding, and pre-production.
Sponsor & Casting Finalization
Title and challenge sponsor onboarding. Main show casting and production team assembly.
Main Show Filming & Global Premiere
12-episode production. Broadcast on Fujian TV and major Chinese and international streaming platforms.