Canada’s cybersecurity hotspots: How communities are leading the charge to attract and retain top talent

With cybersecurity talent being in high demand due to increased cybersecurity attacks, especially on critical infrastructure, cities and communities are becoming the hotspots for talent attraction and retention. CCN expects this to accelerate not only in Canada but globally. Our recent CyberTowns 2024 report highlighted some key reasons why some communities are becoming hotspots for talent.

1. Education and Workforce Alignment: Provinces like Ontario and British Columbia are leading the way in aligning educational programs with real-world cybersecurity needs. In Ottawa, educational institutions like the University of Ottawa and Carleton University offer specialized cybersecurity programs, while Victoria benefits from the University of Victoria’s focus on cybersecurity research. Additionally, the Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst in Brampton provides critical training and support for early-stage cybersecurity firms. The Canadian Cybersecurity Network (CCN) is actively promoting the integration of cybersecurity education into primary schools and advocating for making cybersecurity a trade to ensure students gain hands-on experience during their studies.
2. Technology Hubs and Collaboration: Kanata in Ottawa and Fredericton in New Brunswick are prime examples of thriving technology hubs. Kanata North Technology Park hosts numerous tech companies and startups, fostering innovation through collaboration. Fredericton is home to the Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity (CIC), a leading research center focused on cybersecurity. CCN is working to enhance collaboration across cities and provinces, helping to create a more unified approach to developing and sharing resources, talent, and innovation.
3. Support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): In Edmonton and Calgary, SMEs play a crucial role in the cybersecurity landscape, contributing significantly to the industry’s revenue and innovation. These cities are benefiting from provincial programs like Alberta Innovates, which supports tech startups with funding and resources. CCN is advocating for increased support for SMEs across Canada by connecting them with funding opportunities and helping them navigate the complexities of intellectual property protection.
4. Community and Cultural Integration: Toronto and Vancouver are leaders in offering strong support services for new Canadians, providing language training, education, and business support through initiatives like Toronto’s Welcome Centres and Vancouver’s Immigrant Services Society. These cities create inclusive environments that embrace cultural diversity, making it easier for newcomers to integrate into the workforce. CCN is working to ensure that these best practices are shared and implemented in other communities across the country.
5. Affordability and Quality of Life: Halifax and Winnipeg offer a balanced mix of affordability and quality of life, making them attractive destinations for cybersecurity professionals. Halifax, with its low cost of living and vibrant cultural scene, and Winnipeg, known for its affordable housing, are both seeing an influx of tech talent. CCN is highlighting these communities as examples of how to maintain affordability while fostering economic growth, and is encouraging other cities to adopt similar strategies.
6. Tax Incentives and Business-Friendly Policies: Alberta, particularly Edmonton and Calgary, is attracting tech workers with its lower taxes and cost of living compared to other provinces. These cities offer a competitive advantage with their favorable tax policies and incentives for tech professionals. CCN is advocating for similar tax reforms and incentives across other provinces to retain top cybersecurity talent and attract new businesses.
7. Investment in Infrastructure and Services: Victoria and Brampton are examples of communities that have made significant investments in infrastructure, including reliable high-speed internet and healthcare services. Victoria is known for its strong healthcare system and high quality of life, while Brampton benefits from its proximity to Toronto and strong municipal services. CCN is working to connect communities with the resources and best practices needed to improve infrastructure and address social issues like crime, which can deter talent from settling in certain areas.

CCN's Role: The Canadian Cybersecurity Network (CCN) is playing a pivotal role in bringing these efforts together by acting as a connector and collaborator across Canada’s cybersecurity ecosystem. CCN organizes webinars, mentoring programs, and collaborative initiatives with universities, colleges, companies, and government agencies to promote best practices in cybersecurity education and workforce development.