City of Markham Develops a New 5-Year Economic Development and Culture Strategy

MARKHAM, ON – February 3, 2023 – The City of Markham is embarking on the development of a new Economic Development and Culture Strategy focused on ensuring the long-term success and growth of the city.

The strategy will provide a 5-year road map, along with associated goals, targets and actions, that will guide the work of City-staff and its collaboration with businesses, artists, creators, not-for-profits, post-secondary institutions and community members, on growing Markham’s economy on a foundation of arts, culture and innovation.

“The City of Markham is taking a unique approach in developing a combined economic development and culture strategy that recognizes the important role arts, culture and creativity play in building a community that attracts talent for innovative companies,” says Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “This important work will shape the work and collaborations the City will pursue to ensure Markham’s position as an important part of Canada’s innovation economy.”

Already recognized as Canada’s second-largest tech cluster with more than 1,500 technology companies, and as home to Canada’s largest cluster of semiconductor companies, the City of Markham is also home to a vibrant arts and culture community, including creators, performers and innovators that contribute to Markham’s strong quality of life. The planned Strategy aims to build on this strong foundation and continue the momentum that has been realized in the community.

In support of the Strategy development process, the City is launching a public engagement process to obtain feedback from residents, businesses, artists, creators, not-for-profits, post-secondary institutions, community members, and key partners. This is being done through a number of channels and approaches, including: facilitated workshops, one-on-one meetings and interviews, business and community surveys, and pop-up sessions to be held in different locations across Markham.

To learn more and provide your input, please visit MarkhamIsMore.ca.

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Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti's Office:
mayorscarpitti@markham.ca.

Department of Economic Growth, Culture and Entrepreneurship:
edoinfo@markham.ca

All other media inquiries / interview requests for the City of Markham: 
Kisha Powell, Media Relations & Communications Specialist at kpowell@markham.ca.

About Markham: Markham, an award-winning municipality with more than 356,000 residents and the largest of nine communities in York Region, is home to over 650 headquartered companies and more than 1,500 high tech and life science companies. Markham is a leader in attracting foreign direct investment with more than 234 foreign companies located in the City. Founded in the 1790s, today Markham is Canada’s most diverse community and enjoys a rich heritage, outstanding community planning and services, and a vibrant local economy. 
 

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