Ontario’s Jobs and Prosperity Council released its report today: Advantage Ontario
In its opening letter to Ontarians, the report offers “a vision for growth that includes more international trade, increased productivity, more innovation by Ontario businesses and a reinvigorated manufacturing sector — things that will lead to better jobs and a better standard of living for all Ontarians.”
Key themes include a focus on helping Ontario companies to go global, unleashing innovation and entrepreneurship, and capitalizing on Ontario’s strengths in talent. Of particular note are the heavy emphasis on improving the export capabilities of SMEs in the province, as well as seizing opportunities to accelerate commercialization through improved access to capital measures. “We’re pleased to see the recommendations around increasing access to and the quality of risk capital for Ontario companies,” commented Iain Klugman, CEO of Communitech. “And the focus on building a stronger culture of entrepreneurship is one that will help Ontario continue to start and grow innovative technology companies.” He added his thanks to the Council members for their leadership and expressed Communitech’s commitment to helping Ontario strengthen the innovation economy.
The Jobs and Ontario Council is led by president and CEO of the Royal Bank of Canada, Gord Nixon, along with Kevin Lynch, vice chair of BMO Financial Group. The Council also includes representation from prominent industry leaders, including Research In Motion founder and vice chair Mike Lazaridis, CEO of Linamar Corporation, Linda Hasenfratz, and Bell Canada and BCE Inc. president and CEO, George Cope.
