Calgary has emerged as one of the top tech ecosystems in North America due to a combination of strategic factors, including a robust support infrastructure, talent availability, favorable business environment, and a thriving startup culture.
According to the 2024 Global Startup Ecosystem Report, Calgary's tech ecosystem has added $8.1 billion in value to the Calgary economy from July 2021 to December 2023 — a 237.5% increase compared to the previous two-year period (July 2019 to December 2021). Notably, Calgary is the fourth top tech market in Canada, placing it among global tech hubs like Portland, Rome, Vienna, and Cairo.
"Not too long ago, Calgary wasn't on the map as a world-class destination for startups or a hub for innovation. But with talent and investment flowing into Calgary, we have all the right pieces in place for our innovation economy to continue its pace as one of the fastest growing tech-hubs in the world and allow us to continue competing on the global stage," noted Brad Parry, President and CEO, Calgary Economic Development, and CEO, Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund.
Emerging Startup Ecosystem
In line with this, Calgary hosts several innovation hubs and incubators, such as Platform Calgary and the Calgary Innovation Coalition, which provide startups with mentorship, networking opportunities, and funding.
"Calgary has long been defined as a city of community builders who rise to tackle any challenge put in front of us. That Calgary spirit is on full display within our technology ecosystem. All of the progress made in recent years has been because of one of the most dynamic and collaborative communities on the planet. And the best is yet to come," commented Terry Rock, President & CEO of Platform Calgary.
With approximately 100,000 tech employees and more than 9,000 STEM graduates each year, Alberta boasts the youngest workforce, the fastest-growing population, and the highest engineer ratio per capita in Canada.
Between 2017-2022, Calgary emerged as an innovation hub with a 61% growth in tech talent. Its highly educated workforce has a significant expertise in technology and engineering disciplines.
In addition, Calgary's lower living costs and operating expenses, relative to major tech ecosystems like Silicon Valley, make it an attractive destination for both startups and established tech firms.
Located in Western Canada, Calgary serves as a strategic location for businesses looking to connect with markets in both North America and Asia. The city has excellent infrastructure, including high-speed internet, advanced logistics, and a well-connected airport, facilitating business operations and international trade.
Read More: Driving Industrial Innovation: Alberta’s Tech Ecosystem Gains Momentum
