Durham Region recognized as one of Canada’s best locations to invest

Whitby, Ontario – The Regional Municipality of Durham has been ranked among Canada’s top 20 locations to invest in 2024 by Site Selection Magazine, an internationally circulated publication for corporate real estate and economic development.

The ranking is based on factors like capital investment and job creation on a cumulative and per-capita basis. The recognition by Site Selection Magazine solidifies Durham’s standing as a prime investment destination and highlights the region’s reputation as an innovative and welcoming environment for successfully growing businesses.

As a top choice for investment, Durham Region is in demand. In 2023, non-residential building permits in Durham reached an all-time high of $1.23 billion. Recent investments, expansions and job creation prove that Durham is one of Canada’s emerging premier investment locations. Since 2023, Durham Region has welcomed nuclear technology steward AtkinsRéalis to Pickering, global supply chain leader Martin Brower to Oshawa and manufacturing company Tessera Group corporate headquarters to Scugog. In the past year, Trent University Durham GTA has opened their Advanced Learning Centre in Oshawa, while Adamson Systems Engineering is expanding their production facility in Port Perry. A refurbishment of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station will create about 11,000 jobs per year over the 11-year project period.

The top 20 investment ranking marks the first time Durham Region’s Economic Development and Tourism division (Invest Durham) has been recognized by Site Selection magazine and the acknowledgment highlights the successful collaboration of the Durham Economic Development Partnership (DEDP). The DEDP is a collaborative of Invest Durham and the eight local municipalities. This partnership sees economic developers from across the municipal and regional levels work together to provide seamless service delivery to Durham’s business community. Their work is to collaboratively deliver on the opportunity created by Durham Region’s booming growth and talented workforce, ensuring innovators and entrepreneurs are supported in our in-demand community. 

Explore Durham’s Signature Sites package to find available land and industrial space for growing businesses.

 Quotes

“This distinction by Site Selection Magazine as one of the best locations in Canada to invest not only acknowledges our region’s achievements but also underscores our dedication to creating opportunities and attracting investments to our community. Durham Region stands out as the premier choice for investment.” 

– John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Region of Durham

“I am extremely proud of this recognition by Site Selection Magazine for Invest Durham and our eight regional partners. It stands as a testament to the dedication and the high-quality of work our economic development staff across the region do in attracting investment, growing and retaining business. Durham Region is undoubtedly a strategic and attractive location for investment.”

– Simon Gill, Director of Economic Development and Tourism, Region of Durham

“The recognition of Durham Region as one of Canada’s best locations to invest highlights the collective effort that is driving our economic success. Ajax’s strategic site selection and the Durham Economic Development Partnership have been pivotal in advancing the Town’s capital investment and driving job creation and economic growth. Congratulations to all involved.”

– Mayor Shaun Collier, Town of Ajax

“This award recognizes that by investing in Durham Region and Brock Township, businesses are tapping into a community dedicated to growth. With our updated Downtown Community Improvement Plan, businesses and property owners in our three downtown areas can benefit from financial incentives aimed at community improvement and revitalization. Brock is a strategic choice for investment.”

– Mayor Walter Schummer, Township of Brock

“I’m proud that Clarington and Durham have been distinguished as one of the top investment destinations. We always welcome an opportunity to showcase our world-class expertise and innovation. Clarington has earned its reputation as a leader in clean energy. We are a proud hub in the global nuclear renaissance.”

– Mayor Adrian Foster, Municipality of Clarington

“We’re thrilled to see Durham Region featured in Site Selection Magazine’s Annual “Canada’s Best Locations. With over $3 billion in record-breaking development activity in recent years, Oshawa is proud to join in the enthusiasm building across our region as an ideal location for new investment.”

– Mayor Dan Carter, City of Oshawa

“This recognition is a testament to our dynamic partnership, which has led to numerous important and successful initiatives, with significant investments announced not only in Pickering, but across the region. These developments reflect the growing confidence that businesses have in Durham Region as a preferred place to establish and expand their operations.”

– Mayor Kevin Ashe, City of Pickering

“I’m proud of this recognition with Durham as a top investment destination. The Township of Scugog’s business opportunities, historic charm, natural beauty, and quality of life make our community an attractive destination for investment. With access to a supportive community, and a thriving local economy, businesses in Scugog are well-positioned for growth and success.”

– Mayor Wilma Wotten, Township of Scugog

“It’s an honour for Durham Region and the Township of Uxbridge to be named as a top investment destination. Uxbridge offers unique opportunities for growth. Businesses benefit from a historic downtown ready for redevelopment and proximity to vast green spaces including Uxbridge Urban Provincial Park. Our community values work-life balance, and our strategic location near larger urban centres enhances our appeal.”

– Mayor Dave Barton, Township of Uxbridge

“Whitby is thrilled to be recognized in Site Selection Magazine’s ‘Canada’s Best Locations.’ With our quality of life, strategic location and competitive costs, along with a dedicated team ready to assist, we continue to stand out as a top investment destination.”

– Mayor Elizabeth Roy, Town of Whitby

About Durham Region

Located on the eastern side of the GTHA, Durham is a region with momentum. Offering a competitive advantage like no other, Durham is a community where talented, smart, diverse and ambitious people—known for their innovation, creativity, skills and education—bring access to world markets, insights, invention and traditions. A place where an innovative ecosystem helps propel new ideas forward. Where ingenuity and industry help tackle global challenges. Visit durham.ca to learn more about one of Canada’s fastest growing communities.

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For media requests, please contact CorporateCommunications@durham.ca.