Central Ontario – Simcoe County

Ideally situated in Central Ontario, between Lake Simcoe and Georgian Bay, Simcoe County has a population of approximately 450,000 and is within a one-hour drive of more than 9 million people. Home to a diverse and progressive business community, serving a wealth of sectors across the globe, Simcoe County is also a four-season playground, bringing the best of all-season recreation to your doorstep. From our vibrant urban centres to small-town charm, Central Ontario offers you the opportunity to live the life you’ve always wanted.

Canadian Advantage: 

  • Canada leads the G7 with the lowest overall tax rate on new business investment
  • Canada led G7 countries in economic growth over the past decade (2003 – 2012)
  • For the seventh consecutive year, the World Economic Forum has declared Canada’s banking system to be the soundest in the world
  • According to the World Bank, Canada is one of the most multicultural countries with world-class universities, a universal health-care system, clean and friendly cities, and the second highest standard of living in the G7, as measured by GDP per capita
  • In addition to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which provides companies free-trade access to a market valued at US$18 trillion, Canada is committed to opening new markets through free and open trade

Location Advantage:

  • Strategic location in Central Ontario ideal to access local and international markets
  • More than 130 million people live within a one-day drive
  • Connected to major highways facilitating transportation to Canadian, US, and international markets
  • Lake Simcoe Regional Airport, with on-site Canada Customs and a 6,001-foot runway suitable for commercial aircraft, is sur¬rounded by available employment lands and is located 60 minutes from Toronto’s Pearson International Airport
  • Short-line rail service providing daily interchanges with CP Rail connecting to major North American cities

Labour Force:

  • According to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, Canada’s workforce is the most highly educated among members of the OECD, with half of its working-age population having tertiary-level education
  • Total labour force within County of Simcoe: 230,795
  • Within commuting distance (one-hour drive): 1.5 million+
  • Supported by Georgian College, Lakehead University, and Laurentian University

Research and Development:

  • Canada offers the lowest business costs in the G7 for R&D intensive sectors, with a 15.8 percent cost advantage over the United States
  • Lakehead University provides faculty research support for early stage research and development projects, and offers industry access to all facilities
  • Georgian College’s Centre for Applied Research and Innovation provides in-depth assistance for applied research and commercialization projects, including materials testing, professional advice, and financial and human resource support
  • Opportunities to leverage provincial and federal funding for R&D, labour, marketing, exporting, and much more

Quality of Life:

Simcoe County is considered by many to be Ontario’s four-season outdoor playground. Visitors and residents alike can enjoy breathtaking views, a vibrant arts and cultural community, walking trails, parks, marinas, shopping and dining, and a variety of entertainment ranging from a world class show at the Casino, snowmobiling, skydiving, and horse racing to lounging on the beach, boating, and skiing. There are endless opportunities for recreation and a high quality of life supported by a strong health care system; many area educational facilities from elementary to post-secondary; and a variety of housing options located in many unique communities from large to small, urban to rural.

For more information, please contact the County of Simcoe Economic Development Office at (866) 893-9300, or by visiting edo.simcoe.ca.