If you’re passionate about tech and innovation, do NOT miss Toronto! This huge Canadian city is one of the most important tech hubs we have in the world today. And we will explain exactly why.
First a Brief Overview
Before we dive into the good stuff, let’s take a quick look at what makes Toronto’s tech scene so unique and special:
- Huge talent pool
- Government is very supportive of tech innovations
- Some of the world’s most powerful academic institutions
- Incredible startup ecosystem
- Presence of major tech companies opens for endless possibilities to network
Now, let’s dive even deeper.
Tech Innovations in Toronto
Toronto has been incredibly important for the whole world when it comes to technological advancements. Here are some of the most notable innovations as of late:
AI
Toronto is home to the Vector Institute, one of the biggest AI research facilities globally. Thanks to this, Toronto has seen significant developments in:
- Self-driving vehicle tech
- AI-powered healthcare
- NLP technology advancements
Fintech
The city’s financial district has embraced technology, leading to innovative fintech solutions:
- Blockchain-based fintech
- Crypto exchanges
- AI-driven investment platforms
You can learn more about Canadian fintech innovations in eCheckCasinos.ca’s infographic.
Cleantech
Toronto is committed to sustainability with numerous cleantech innovations in:
- Smart grid tech
- Renewable energy
- Waste management innovations
Biotech and Healthcare
The city’s healthcare sector is leveraging tech to improve patient care:
- Telemedicine platforms
- AI-assisted diagnostics
- Personalized medicine solutions
Must-Visit Tech Museums and Attractions
Toronto offers a decent number of tech-focused museums and attractions. Here are some you definitely shouldn’t miss:
Ontario Science Centre
- Address: 770 Don Mills Rd, North York, ON M3C 1T3
- Website: Ontario Science Centre
The Ontario Science Centre is a hub of interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences. Tech enthusiasts will love:
- The Space Hall, featuring a real NASA spacesuit
- The Living Earth exhibit that showcases environmental technologies
- The Science Arcade with over 50 interactive experiences
MaRS Discovery District
- Address: 101 College St, Toronto, ON M5G 1L7
- Website: MaRS Discovery District
MaRS is North America’s largest urban innovation hub. Here you can:
- Attend tech-focused events and workshops
- Explore the innovation showcase
- Network with startups and tech professionals
Ryerson DMZ
- Address: 10 Dundas St E, Toronto, ON M5B 2G9
- Website: Ryerson DMZ
The DMZ is one of the world’s top university-based incubators. Here you are able to:
- Go on guided tours and fully explore the facility
- Attend startup events
- Participate in workshops and seminars with other like-minded tech geeks
Tech Events and Conferences
Toronto hosts numerous tech events throughout the year. Here are some you can’t miss:
Collision Conference
- Website: Collision
Collision is one of North America’s fastest-growing tech conferences, bringing together global leaders in technology, business, and media.
Toronto Tech Week
- Website: Toronto Tech Week
This week-long event celebrates Toronto’s tech ecosystem with workshops, networking events, and showcases of local innovations.
Elevate Festival
- Website: Elevate
Elevate is Canada’s largest tech and innovation festival, featuring world-class speakers, interactive experiences, and networking opportunities. Don’t miss this year’s festival that starts on October 1.
The Tech Districts of Toronto
But to truly experience Toronto’s tech scene, you need to explore its innovation hubs. Here are our favorite spots you need to visit:
Downtown Core
Downtown Core of Toronto is home to the biggest tech companies and startups like:
- Shopify
- Amazon
Liberty Village
A former industrial area turned tech hub, featuring:
- Innovative co-working spaces
- Tech-focused cafes and restaurants
- Startup offices
Waterfront
The site of Sidewalk Labs’ smart city project (now discontinued), but still home to:
- George Brown College’s Waterfront Campus
- Innovative sustainability initiatives
- Tech-focused real estate developments
Tech-Inspired Dining Experiences
Even dining in Toronto can be a tech-inspired adventure. Check out these unique spots:
iHalo Krunch
- Address: 915 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1G5
- Website: iHalo Krunch
iHalo Krunch is famous for its charcoal ice cream. They make use of liquid nitrogen to create their cool and unique treats you’ve never seen anywhere else.
MARKED Restaurant
- Address: 132 John St, Toronto, ON M5V 2E3
- Website: MARKED
MARKED uses high-tech grills and ovens to create its South American-inspired dishes.
Storm Crow Manor
- Address: 580 Church St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2E5
- Website: Storm Crow Manor
A true geek-themed bar and restaurant featuring VR experiences and tech-inspired decor.
Accommodation
For the full tech experience, here are some of the coolest tech-forward hotels too:
Hotel X Toronto
- Address: 111 Princes’ Blvd, Toronto, ON M6K 3C3
- Website: Hotel X Toronto
Featuring:
- High-tech fitness center
- In-room tablets for controlling amenities
- Rooftop pool with city views
The Annex Hotel
- Address: 296 Brunswick Ave, Toronto, ON M5S 2M7
- Website: The Annex Hotel
Offering:
- Contactless check-in
- Smart room controls
- High-speed Wi-Fi throughout
Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto
- Address: 75 Lower Simcoe St, Toronto, ON M5J 3A6
- Website: Delta Hotels
Providing:
- Smart TVs with streaming capabilities
- Mobile key access
- Tech-enabled meeting spaces
Getting Around Toronto: Tech-Savvy Transportation
Toronto offers several tech-forward transportation options:
- Toronto Transit Commission App: Download the official TTC app for real-time transit information and mobile ticketing.
- Bike Share Toronto: Use the PBSC app to locate and rent bicycles throughout the city.
- Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: Find numerous EV charging stations across the city using apps like ChargeHub or PlugShare.
- Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft are widely available in Toronto as well.
Toronto Tech By the Numbers
To give you a better idea of Toronto’s tech landscape, here’s a quick look at some key statistics:
| Number of tech workers | 285,000+ |
| Number of tech companies | 14,000+ |
| Annual tech conferences | 30+ |
| Tech incubators and accelerators | 60+ |
| Global ranking for tech talent | 4th |
Source: Toronto Global
Convinced yet?
As you may be able to tell already, Toronto is a diverse and constantly evolving tech hub. Here you’ll be able to experience everything from cutting-edge innovations and world-class museums to tech-focused events and unique dining experiences. So whether you’re interested in AI, fintech, cleantech, or simply want to get inspired, Toronto should be at the top of your travel list.
