By Jonathan Haber, Montreal, QC
When people think of global technology centers, they often picture Silicon Valley, Toronto, or New York. But over the past decade, something remarkable has been happening closer to home. Montreal, long known for its creativity, culture, and world-class universities, has quietly built a thriving technology ecosystem that is now drawing attention from around the world. As someone who has spent my career building and mentoring startups in this city, I can say with confidence that Montreal’s tech momentum is real—and it is only just beginning.
A City Built on Creativity and Collaboration
At the heart of Montreal’s success is a spirit of creativity and collaboration that runs deep in the city’s DNA. Innovation here does not come from isolation; it comes from connection. Entrepreneurs, engineers, designers, and investors work together across industries, sharing ideas and supporting each other’s growth.
That sense of openness has allowed Montreal’s tech scene to evolve faster than anyone expected. Startups here are not afraid to experiment, to fail, and to try again. There is a willingness to take risks, but also a strong focus on building solutions that make life better for people. This balance between ambition and purpose is what gives Montreal’s technology community its unique character.
You can feel it in coworking spaces around the Plateau and Old Montreal, where startup founders brainstorm over coffee, and in the countless meetups and demo nights that bring people together. Collaboration is not just a buzzword here—it is a way of life.
The Power of a Diverse Talent Pool
Montreal’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths. The city’s blend of cultures, languages, and perspectives has created a vibrant environment for innovation. People from all over the world come to study, work, and create here, bringing fresh ideas and approaches that drive the tech industry forward.
This diversity also extends to education. With institutions like McGill University, Concordia, Polytechnique Montréal, and Université de Montréal, the city produces thousands of skilled graduates each year in engineering, computer science, business, and design. The talent pool is deep, adaptable, and globally minded.
Startups benefit from that mix of expertise and energy. Whether you are launching a fintech company, building AI tools, or designing a new app, you will find people in Montreal who can help you bring your vision to life.
A Thriving Startup Ecosystem
Montreal’s startup ecosystem has matured rapidly, supported by incubators, accelerators, and a growing network of investors. Organizations like Notman House, Centech, and the Founder Institute have played an important role in helping early-stage companies find their footing. These programs give founders access to mentorship, funding, and valuable connections that help turn ideas into sustainable businesses.
In my experience working with startups through Haber Strategies Inc., I have seen how this ecosystem fosters resilience and creativity. Founders here do not just chase trends—they focus on solving meaningful problems. Many Montreal startups are leading the way in sectors like artificial intelligence, software development, clean technology, and digital media.
One of the most exciting things about this growth is how community-driven it feels. The people leading these ventures are genuinely invested in each other’s success. They understand that when one startup wins, the entire ecosystem benefits.
Government and Investment Support
Another factor fueling Montreal’s rise as a global tech hub is strong institutional support. Both local and federal governments have recognized the potential of the city’s tech sector and have invested in programs that encourage research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Tax incentives, grants, and research partnerships have helped attract international companies while supporting local talent. Major tech firms, including Google, Microsoft, and Meta, have all expanded their presence in Montreal, drawn by the city’s expertise in AI and data science. Their investment not only brings jobs but also creates opportunities for startups to collaborate and grow.
Venture capital funding has also increased significantly in recent years. Investors are beginning to see what locals have known for a while—Montreal offers exceptional innovation at a fraction of the cost of larger tech hubs.
A Lifestyle That Inspires Innovation
Montreal’s appeal goes beyond business. It is a city that inspires creativity in every sense. From its historic architecture to its food culture and festivals, there is an energy here that fuels imagination.
For me, that connection between lifestyle and innovation is essential. After a busy week of meetings and product discussions, I find clarity hiking in Mount Royal Park or catching a hockey game with friends. The balance between work and life is one of the city’s greatest assets. People here know how to work hard and enjoy the process, and that sense of joy and passion shows up in the technology we create.
It is no surprise that entrepreneurs from other parts of Canada and the world are choosing to relocate here. Montreal offers the rare combination of affordability, talent, and quality of life that few cities can match.
Looking Ahead: Montreal’s Place on the Global Stage
Montreal’s momentum is undeniable. What started as a local movement of passionate builders has become a globally recognized hub for innovation. The city’s ability to blend technology with creativity, business with culture, and diversity with collaboration is setting a new standard for what a modern tech ecosystem can look like.
As a Montrealer, I feel proud to be part of this story. Each startup that launches, each new partnership formed, and each breakthrough achieved adds another layer to Montreal’s growing reputation as a world-class innovation center.
The next decade holds incredible promise. If we continue to invest in people, nurture collaboration, and stay true to the human-centered values that define our community, Montreal will not just be part of the global tech conversation—it will lead it.