The Silicon Valley of the North

Here’s the deal, Trump’s plans were bound to have some effect (good or bad) on the world. It seems for Canada the effects were good.

Toronto, which unbeknownst to me is the fourth largest city in North America, has seen huge increases in both talent and funding for startups. They are well on their way to becoming the “Silicon Valley of the North”. From the article there are two main reasons for this.

First, talent:

After a decision to delay the H-1B visas used by American businesses to hire skilled workers, the Canadian government under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced in March an expedited work-permit process for the same kind of foreign talent. As a result, Canada's startups are seeing a jump in job applications — especially from workers in the US.

And second, funding:

One draw for US investors right now is the cheap exchange rate, which takes investment dollars further and makes investments more attractive. Another is the softer competition for deals in the Canadian market, meaning that startup valuations are more reasonable than in places like Silicon Valley.

Right now Toronto is truly setup for a startup boom, but will they take advantage of their opportunity? What are your thoughts? Can Toronto be the next Silicon Valley, and if not where could you see the next start-up hub being?

Link to article: Trump's immigration policies are opening a door to the Silicon Valley of the North