The City of Waterloo is a dynamic, leading edge community that is committed to the future.  Proud of our reputation for hard work and craftsmanship; these are values every bit as important today as in the past.  The 2001 Census figures show that the Kitchener Census Metropolitan Area (which includes Waterloo) is the fifth Fastest Growing region in Canada: 8.3% over five years to a population of 458,400.

Companies locating here find a highly skilled and well-trained labour force.  A solid base in High Technology is complemented by a strong insurance and financial services sector, plus tourism and university-related enterprises.

Being part of Canada's Technology Triangle, Waterloo has the best of both worlds.  Surrounded by green farmland and fresh air, the city is a modern, vigorous business and technology community.  Small enough to enjoy the best lifestyle yet close to all amenities of the larger metropolitan areas.  It is no wonder that Report on Business Magazine (April 2001) identified Waterloo as one of the Canada's new tech boomtowns.

The business base of a community is an important criterion for any company examining location alternatives.  Waterloo ranks high in most aspects including: manufacturing diversification, workforce capability, employment levels, high education, average hours worked, wage and salary rates, cost of living, responsive City government, low level of union activity and value added by manufacturing.

The City of Waterloo has a strong financial services and insurance sector, sometimes referred to as "Hartford North", a significant high technology sector and diversified manufacturing base, with total businesses numbering over 2200.