Economic development strategy

In response to the unprecedented economic change and uncertainty created by the COVID-19 pandemic, the City is focusing on immediate action and long-term commitment to: 

• support impacted businesses and displaced workers 

• maintain vibrant commercial, main street and downtown areas 
• support businesses of all scales in establishing, growing, pivoting and scaling  
• support businesses and development through efficient municipal services 

Kitchener is positioned to establish a unique foothold in the growing health industry by leveraging our strengths in technology, data, communications, manufacturing and medical devices. We will support the development of leading facilities for entrepreneurs to advance health and med-tech innovations that create opportunities for clinical, academic and entrepreneurial collaboration, centered around a new urban business park. 

Supporting, developing and boosting our local artistic and creative talent will foster a robust sector that can also fuel other vital industries. We will collaborate with industry and educational partners to become a global leader in creative industries. We will also continue to advance affordable creative spaces that will enable the growth and collision of creative entrepreneurs.

We will focus on expanding the startup ecosystem across the city, including a network of City-owned and commercial spaces for entrepreneurs. This will include developing a hub to support businesses tackling the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals, continuing to learn from stakeholders, and working in partnership to deliver innovative entrepreneurial support programs in new ways to eliminate barriers to entry. 

We will work to pioneer mixed-income, mixed-use communities through new investment models that enable the City to actively create affordable and attainable housing. We will also contribute to affordable lifestyles in our community through measures like active transportation, access to community amenities, free community festivals and more. 

Our goal is to continue creating opportunities and places across our city where difference makers and entrepreneurs can offer experiences and moments that bring our community to life. We will work with key stakeholders, business areas and cultural producers to build and promote inspiring and impactful experiences, launch platforms, and enable opportunities that support our vibrant city.