Ottawa’s first trade mission to India poised to make history

_ (press release) _ Mayor Jim Watson is set to lead a trade mission to India to attract investment for Ottawa businesses and build opportunities in training, research and tourism. The 35 delegates represent technology companies, academic institutions, business and tourism associations, and Invest Ottawa, the city’s economic development agency.

The delegation is working to attract investment and build opportunities in training and research for post-secondary institutions. Mayor Watson will meet with government representatives and, along with Ottawa Tourism President & CEO Michael Crockatt, will encourage tourism to Ottawa ahead of the 150

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anniversary of Canada’s Confederation in 2017. Mayor Watson expects a number of partnerships and agreements to be signed during the mission.

Ottawa technology companies that design and manufacture cellular, satellite and fixed wireless systems are represented on the five-day mission that takes place from April 17 to 22, as well as companies with expertise in hardware, software and optics.

Participants will explore business development opportunities with Indian counterparts in the technology sector and other industries. The delegation also includes Ottawa companies with a focus on film production, online education and E-learning solutions, as well as water management, real estate development and legal services. Mayor Watson will also be meeting with some of his counterparts and officials from other levels of government.

“India is a market that requires a fair degree of relationship building to forge trust and demonstrate serious intent,” said Mayor Watson. “I am pleased with the technologies, services and expertise of participating companies and I am confident this trade mission will help local companies to open doors and establish credibility much faster than venturing into this vast market on their own.”

More than 400 companies in Ottawa are engaged in the technology sector employing over 35,000 people.

The talent pool in Ottawa, with expertise in hardware, software and optics can motivate partnerships and leverage investment with the rapidly growing technology sector in India.

Representatives from the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, Algonquin College, the Kanata North Business Association, and TWU Global Education Academy are also on the trade mission to promote Ottawa as a leading knowledge and innovation centre in Canada.

During the mission, delegates will have the opportunity to participate in major events and receptions in which all delegates will be able to network with Indian decision-makers, government officials, and industry and academic leaders. B2B meetings in each destination city have been organized in collaboration with the Canadian High Commission to India’s trade commissioners.

For additional information, visit ottawa.ca or call 3-1-1 (TTY: 613-580-9656 ).  You can also connect with us through Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .