Ottawa, May 25, 2023—Ontario’s creative technology sector is a core contributor to the province’s booming digital economy. Macroeconomic headwinds have not curtailed the demand for skilled workers, and unyielding competition requires balancing the demand and supply of talent.

Creative tech—the convergence of computer science, design, art, entertainment, and social sciences—flourished during the pandemic amid the online services and entertainment boom. Its continued growth and resilience in Ontario can be ensured by an all-sector approach that includes targeted incentive programs and clear information about creative tech career pathways to attract and retain talent, while building a strong pipeline of future creative tech leaders.

ICTC’s latest report, completed for Interactive Ontario and in partnership with the City of Toronto, and London Economic Development Corporation, Ontario’s Next Gen Industry: Addressing Labour Demand and Growth in the Creative Technology Sector, examines the strengths, opportunities, labour market, academic, and investment considerations for advancing the Ontario creative tech sector.

Some key takeaways from this research include the following: 
 

  • The fast growth of the industry and increasing digitization across the economy has created a strong demand for skilled talent. In demand roles in the province’s creative tech sector are found across technical, artistic, design, and operational lines.
  • Recruitment and retention challenges are by-products of strong talent demand and are particularly acute at intermediate and senior levels; these workers are key to attracting business, delivering on project needs, and training junior talent.
  • Local post-secondary institutions provide high-quality programs that help learners make careers in tech, but existing educational pathways need further adaptation to meet evolving real-life labour market needs.

“The creative tech sector is an economic driver for Ontario that is destined for growth while creating strong employment prospects in the next number of years. Talent continues to be at the heart of this industry, unleashing innovations, new business models, and consumer experiences.” - Namir Anani, ICTC President & CEO

The Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) is a not-for-profit, national centre of expertise for strengthening Canada’s digital advantage in a global economy. Through trusted research, practical policy advice, and creative capacity-building programs, ICTC fosters globally competitive Canadian industries enabled by innovative and diverse digital talent. In partnership with an expansive network of industry leaders, academic partners, and policymakers from across Canada, ICTC has empowered a robust and inclusive digital economy for over 30 years.

To arrange an interview on this study or other media inquiries, please get in touch with Paul Stastny at @email or 403.351.0138 Ext. 823.

This study was done with the support of the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development

A copy of the study can be accessed here.

A French-language press release of this report is here.