“Niagara” – probably one of the widest known global brands – has much more going for it than its famous waterfall. The Niagara Region’s non-tourism economic base plays a significant role in stimulating Ontario’s economy.
Because of its strategic and accessible location in North America, favorable investment conditions, and growing number of entrepreneurs and innovators, the Niagara Region is expanding its traditional base of agri-food and manufacturing to encompass a varied range of advanced technology applications that include aerospace, greenhouses, biotech, to high quality stainless steel.
The new TEAM NIAGARA Economic Development Action Plan, drafted with the help of the region’s officials, reflects the ambitions of all 12 municipalities in the area and serves as a road map to achieve its enormous potential.
Through partnerships with Innovate Niagara, Brock University, Niagara College, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre and the District School Board of Niagara, Niagara Economic Development is able to assist entrepreneurs and innovators in improving their products and services.
Over the past few years, a number of Niagara’s homegrown brands have attracted a rising number of global companies, with notable growth coming from Asia. Niagara Economic Development wants to capitalize on this increased activity and introduce more Canadian products to the global marketplace.
In past years, Asian businesses have expressed significant interest in Niagara’s grape growing and wine industry, with the classic Canadian Icewine emerging as a favorite.
“We recognize the importance of the expanding Asian marketplace. We are identifying opportunities and building relationships. Very many Asians visit to see Niagara Falls, but we are encouraging more of these visitors to take the time to explore ‘the full Niagara’ with business interests in mind. We are finding a growing interest in the wide range of business opportunities Niagara and Asia represent for each other,” said Niagara Economic Development Director Bob Seguin.
