Ottawa has established itself as a leading tech hub, attracting international attention for its innovation and talent. With the highest concentration of tech talent in North America, the city boasts a vibrant tech ecosystem that is driving growth across various sectors, including software development, AI, cybersecurity, and more. This dynamic environment has positioned Ottawa as a prime destination for business events and conferences, particularly within the tech and business sectors.
The city’s rich history of technological advancements, coupled with its diverse cultural and educational environment, creates an ideal backdrop for global industry gatherings. Ottawa’s status as the most educated city in Canada further enhances its appeal. In 2023, Ottawa hosted several notable engineering and tech conferences, including the International Society of Offshore and Polar Engineers and the 28th IAVSD Symposium on Dynamics of Vehicles on Roads and Tracks. This trend continues into 2024, with four tech events already confirmed and six more anticipated.
Ottawa’s tech ecosystem is home to over 1,800 knowledge-based businesses within the National Capital Region. Global industry leaders like Nokia, Ford, Ericsson, Ciena, and IBM have established a presence alongside local champions such as Kinaxis, Shopify, Ross Video, and innovative startups like Rewind, Fellow, and Noibu. Invest Ottawa, a key player in fostering the city’s entrepreneurial landscape, provides venture development, global expansion, and talent programs that support businesses and drive growth. Since 2013, Invest Ottawa has facilitated over 14,000 companies, created over 14,700 jobs, and attracted substantial domestic and foreign direct investment.
Ottawa’s position as a tech powerhouse is further solidified by the CBRE 2023 North American Top Tech Talent Report, which highlights the city’s leading position with the highest concentration of tech talent among 50 North American markets. “Invest Ottawa is guided by a vision to help realize Ottawa’s full potential as a globally recognized, innovative, inclusive, and future-ready city,” says Sonya Shorey, President and CEO, Invest Ottawa. The city’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, coupled with its diverse, collaborative community, has attracted top-tier talent and leading businesses, making it a prime choice for tech-focused events.
Lesley Pincombe, Vice President, Meetings & Major Events, Ottawa Tourism, emphasizes the city’s strength in the conference market. Ottawa’s strategic location, excellent flight routes, safety, diversity, inclusivity, and high quality of life make it an attractive option for international event organizers. The city’s event infrastructure, including a multi-award-winning congress centre, further enhances its ability to host large-scale international gatherings. With a rich cultural backdrop and a vibrant tech and business ecosystem, Ottawa offers a unique and welcoming environment for event attendees from around the world.
