Issue link: http://tourismwpg.uberflip.com/i/1221195
Economic Development Winnipeg | YES! Winnipeg 21 Information and communication technologies Information and communication technologies (ICT) is becoming a critical component of every industry in Manitoba due to its cross-sectoral significance, vast number of highly skilled IT-specific jobs and economic opportunities emerging from research and development initiatives. In 2018, the ICT sector contributed $1.9 billion to Manitoba's GDP, and employed 10,500 people at 1,315 companies. In 2018, the sector increased in economic areas including GDP (+1 per cent) and employment (+2.9 per cent) 1 . The value proposition of ICT is cost-effective infrastructure, incentives, skilled talent, economic diversity and central time zone. Subsector analysis indicated GDP growth in software publishers, telecommunications, computer system design and related services. Subsector focus Computer systems design/consulting services, software publishers/R&D services and telecommunications/data processing Target markets/audiences Businesses, site selectors, CEOs and potential employees in the software publishing, telecommunications and e-commerce. Primary Canada and United States Tactics YES! Winnipeg (YW) has developed a strategic sales plan in collaboration with stakeholders to develop and grow investment, talent and help businesses succeed. A Team Manitoba approach with compelling messaging, an elevated presence at trade initiatives and client events, enhanced promotional materials and a comprehensive website (edwinnipeg.com/ICT) assists in highlighting the Winnipeg advantage. Industry collaboration YW will continue to be an active supporter and collaborator with key industry partners such as: Tech Manitoba (formerly Information & Communication Technologies Association of Manitoba) The organization has strong connections to the industry who are eager to build collaborative relationships. They host many networking, training and industry events throughout the year. Leading the tech west team, Tech Manitoba events including delegations to Web Summit, Consumer Electronics Show, and Mobile World Congress annually, among others. Global Affairs Canada (GAC)/Trade Commissioner Service and Invest in Canada Having collaborated with GAC on past events, there remains the possibility of future FDI partnerships with investment officers based on their visits to Winnipeg in 2018. Province of Manitoba (multiple departments including Economic Development & Training) Continue working to support key files related to client requirements and funding programs. City of Winnipeg Support on client files related to permitting, tax increment financing and other requests. Post-secondary institutions (University of Manitoba, University of Winnipeg, Red River College, Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology) Pursue talent development and collaboration with industry to meet skilled workforce requirements. Destination Canada, Business Events Canada Advancing international ICT sector events and co-promotion of Winnipeg within jointly identified key sectors. Manitoba Customer Contact Association (MCCA) Applying their strong connections into the industry to provide a source for business outreach within the sector. Source: 1 Statistics Canada 2018 Photo courtesy Bold Commerce Economic Development Winnipeg | YES! Winnipeg 21