Hand shake image

This year’s Site Selection magazine Canadian Competitiveness Award goes to the province of Ontario, based upon data derived from tracking new corporate facilities and expansions. In addition to the province taking the top spot, Ontario cities claimed 9 out of 20 of Canada’s Best Locations.

Ontario places first for the fourth consecutive year

Ontario’s commitment to red tape reduction was a primary factor recognized by Site Selection magazine, as the province has committed to reducing regulatory requirements affecting businesses by 25% by 2020. The Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses also took notice, giving the province an A- grade on its Red Tape Report Card, up from a C+ last year. Ontario’s 10-year Driving Prosperity auto plan addressing competitiveness, innovation, and talent in the auto industry was also highlighted as a factor in the rankings.

Ontario’s cities are open for business

Ontario cities named among the best locations for business in Canada include:

  • Hamilton
  • Kingston
  • London
  • Mississauga
  • Oakville
  • Sarnia-Lambton
  • Toronto
  • Waterloo
  • York Region

International investors choose Ontario

Toronto garnered much attention last year for its spot on the Amazon HQ2 shortlist, something that opened the door to many international companies considering the Toronto region, including Netflix and Qualcomm. Other major international investments in Ontario the past year have included expansions from Toyota, UPS, and Mondelez International. And investment in the province has extended well beyond the GTA, as Waterloo alone has received $3 billion in international investment the past few years. Site Selection points out that 1 in 8 Canadian jobs are for multinational enterprises, making international investment critical for job growth.

Learn more about Ontario.

Sign up to receive more detailed information.

Form is for business purposes.