10 Reasons why Toronto is a great city for the technogy industry

BY: 

Dave Forde
July 12, 2006

Toronto has often been recognized as a leading city for technology in North America. Over the last two years we’ve been experiencing a resurge into the industry. Just about ever sector of the technology industry has seen growth, wireless, blogs, broadband and many more. Here are a few thoughts that I’ve together that makes Toronto a major player in the technology industry.

  1. Diversity – Toronto is known as the most diverse city in North America – this gives us an international talent pool to draw from & ability to tap into global markets
  2. Education – University of Toronto’s world-class school of engineering program, along with other top schools such as Seneca College & Centennial College
  3. Internet Access – Canada has a 77% broadband penetration allowing consumers to take advantage of video and online services; Toronto Hydro plans to offer wireless throughout downtown Toronto (Internet everywhere)
  4. Community – centers for excellence such as MaRS & Innovation Synergy Center in Markham
  5. Access to fundsToronto Venture Group (TVG) which brings investment ready-entrepreneurs with presentation opportunities to qualified investors the home all the major Canadian banks,
  6. Cluster – as a whole, Toronto represents 3300 firms & 148,00 employees, annual sales are estimated greater $30 billion, exports of $6 billion , 3rd largest ICT sector in North America, behind San Francisco & New York, head office to such companies as Rogers, ATI Technologies, Hummingbird, Workbrain, Minacs
  7. Community – numerous industry associations and vertical specific associations, Toronto BarCamp
  8. Geography – located hours away from numerous major US cities, it makes for quick business trips a breeze
  9. Government supportICT Toronto and initiative supported by all 3 levels of government with a visions to help the city become “among the top 2 locations in North America and the top 5 in the world for ICT companies”
  10. Innovation – many of the great technology products and services are created right here in Toronto from such companies as Nortel & Celestica

Did I miss anything, what else makes Toronto a major city for technology?

[tags] Toronto, Nortel, Rogers, ATI, Toronto BarCamp [/tags]

Join your peers!

Get news, tips and other industry news delivered into your inbox for FREE!

Related Stories:

Dave Forde


Dave “The Connector” Forde has been involved in the marketing, public relations and technology industry across Canada for over 20 years in various sales and marketing roles, he launched The Connected One network of business sites which connects buyers to the right sellers. Profectio and PR In Canada covers news about the marketing and public relations industry each day helping professionals advance their career and businesses. He also serves as an advisor to a number of businesses across the country. Find Dave on LinkedIn and Twitter.


>