Positive perceptions of Calgary as an economy and a place to do business has “risen dramatically despite ongoing economic uncertainty,” according to an annual report.
Research conducted by Stone-Olafson involved asking business leaders from key North American markets such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Silicon Valley about their impressions of Alberta’s tech and entrepreneurship hub.
Those who think Calgary’s economy is diverse increased more than 20% from last year, while the numbers of those who see Calgary as a place to build a career, as well as those who view Calgary as a good place to do business, also rose.
Overall favourability of Calgary, according to Stone-Olafson, rose 10%.
“This research backs up what we’ve known for years,” offers Brad Parry, who served as chief executive officer of Calgary Economic Development, which commissioned the report. “Calgary is great place to build a business or start a career.”
Calgary is now tied for Toronto as the most favoured destination for American talent to relocate to in Canada, while more Canadians than ever say they would consider a move to Calgary (73%).
Parry points to “everything from our economy to our arts and culture scene and quality of life” being “diverse, dynamic, and world class.”
“We’ve been telling this story for years and now we see it increasingly resonating with external audiences,” commented the CEO. “We remain in a highly competitive landscape and we need to keep telling our story to reinforce these perceptions.”
Historically, “perceptions of Calgary have been much more subdued due to lack of familiarity and negatively impacted by economic or geopolitical news,” according to Mathew Stone, a Partner at Stone-Olafson.
“To see positive perceptions increase amid global economic and trade uncertainty indicates that Calgary’s brand and messaging are cutting through the noise and resonating with target audiences,” remarked Stone.
“These are great results and show we are well-positioned for continued economic growth,” Parry stated. “We need to remain top of mind for companies, capital, and talent.”
Stone-Olafson has been commissioned by Calgary Economic Development to conduct this research since 2014.
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