Leading In Information And Communications Technology
McGuinty Government Helps Ontario Companies Shine
Ontario’s cutting-edge information and communications technology sector continues to shine, employing nearly 270,000 Ontarians and contributing about $28.4 billion to the economy annually.
Supported by a globally competitive business environment, Ontario is a leading destination for companies seeking a smart, skilled workforce, outstanding research expertise and facilities, low business costs, and an emphasis on commercialization.
“Ontario’s dynamic and innovative information and communications technology sector is second to none. We’re focused on creating the right climate to do business and ensure our companies can compete and win in the global marketplace.” Brad Duguid, Minister of Economic Development and Innovation
Along with attracting significant investment from global companies such as Siemens, Intel, Google, IBM and Cisco:
- There were approximately 18,000 information and communications technology firms in Ontario in 2011, up 3.1 per cent from 2010.
- 40 innovative information and communications technology projects invested in Ontario in 2011.
- In 2011, Toronto ranked fourth in the world as a top tech hub for software start-ups behind Silicon Valley, New York City, and London.
Providing the right climate to attract investment and build business is part of the McGuinty government’s plan to create jobs and strengthen the economy. A strong economy protects the services that mean most to families – health care and education.
QUICK FACTS
- Ontario is the proud host of Microsoft’s Worldwide Partner Conference 2012, which runs from July 8 to 12.
- The conference is expected to attract 15,000 participants and generate an estimated $39 million in visitor spending.
- The information and communications technology sector accounted for $28.4 billion of Ontario’s GDP in 2011, representing 48 per cent of the total Canadian information and communications technology sector and 5.7 per cent of Ontario’s total GDP.
- The sector directly employs more than 270,000 people in Ontario, representing 49 per cent of the Canadian information and communications technology sector.
- Ontario’s employment increased by 20,200 in June 2012.
- As a result of the tax changes implemented in Ontario, taxes on business investment were cut in half, making Ontario more competitive and encouraging new business investments.
