Where does Innovation Go to Work? Hamilton.

By Glen Norton

Hamilton is fast becoming known as the city, “where innovation goes to work.” There is widespread proof of the depth and breadth of Hamilton’s innovation ecosystem.

McMaster University and Mohawk College were recognized recently as the most research-intensive university and college in Canada, a remarkable feat considering there are 96 universities and 109 colleges in the country.
Both McMaster and Mohawk have dedicated extensive resources to research institutes, networks and incubators, including SURGE and IDEAWORKS at Mohawk and the University’s McMaster Industry Liaison Office and The Forge.

Hamilton is also working on one of the most extensive auto electrification programs in North America, led by McMaster University.

Recognition of Hamilton as a place to do business is continually growing.
In 2018, Hamilton ranked as one of the TOP7 Intelligent Communities globally, based on factors including broadband internet connectivity and access to a knowledge workforce. This is a key milestone on the City’s Smart City journey.

We had the fourth-largest number of Startup 50 Companies in Canada in 2018, and Youthful Cities named Hamilton as the third-best city for youth to work. BMO Capital Markets ranked Hamilton as the third-best city to find a job in Canada.

We are very proud of these accomplishments and are committed to continuing to make Hamilton a great city for entrepreneurs, innovators and investors. Our innovation ecosystem includes Innovation Factory, McMaster Innovation Park, the Centre for Integrated Transportation and Mobility, and the Synapse Life Science Consortium.

Synapse is a powerful partnership between Hamilton Health Sciences, St. Joseph’s Healthcare, McMaster University, Mohawk College, and Bay Area Health Trust, supported by Hamilton Economic Development, the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, MIP and iF.

Individually, each are innovation powerhouses, but together, they are an unstoppable force that magnifies the impact of collective action and accelerates the commercialization of life-science innovation.

Hamilton’s legacy as a manufacturing city is the foundation for its success in a knowledge-based economy. A strong work ethic forged in the blast furnaces of our steel companies now underpins the city’s leadership in the Advanced Manufacturing Supercluster. It aims to inject $13.5 billion into the Canadian economy and create 13,500 net new jobs over ten years.
Hamilton offers neighbourhoods that are affordable, walkable and culturally diverse.

Young families are attracted to the mid-sized city lifestyle, our redeveloping waterfront, Niagara Escarpment trails, and vibrant arts, music and foodie offerings. Hamilton was recently recognized for the fastest-growing restaurant scene in North America.

Hamilton offers everything researchers, entrepreneurs and skilled talent need to build a great career and live a beautiful life.

For more information on starting-up, expanding or relocating your business to Hamilton, please connect with the Hamilton Economic Development Office by calling 905-546-4222, Toll-free: 1-800-868-1329 or visit www.InvestInHamilton.ca