Kingston, Ontario – January 23, 2024 – Kingston Economic Development is pleased to announce that StartupBlink, a global leader in assessing and ranking start-up ecosystems, has awarded Kingston with the prestigious title of the Best Ecosystem in Energy and Environment among North American Cities with a population range of 100,000 to 500,000. The recognition comes as a testament to Kingston’s outstanding commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable practices in the region.
The Start-up Ecosystem Awards by StartupBlink aims to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of start-up ecosystems worldwide, giving credit to entities that contribute significantly to the growth and success of these ecosystems.
“We congratulate the Kingston Economic Development Corporation for their hard work in growing the ecosystem. The city has recently earned the Best City in the Energy and Environment Industry award within the population range of 100,000 to 500,000 in North America. Kingston’s start-up ecosystem not only showcases significant advancements but also stands as an exemplary model for smaller-population cities aspiring to grow their own start-up ecosystems,” notes StartupBlink.
The rigorous selection process for the awards is based on StartupBlink’s comprehensive ranking algorithm, which analyzes over 40 parameters to evaluate the strength and impact of start-up ecosystems. The criteria include factors such as regional influence, national dominance, and population size to ensure a fair and comprehensive recognition of achievements.
“Kingston stands as a dynamic ecosystem and hub of innovation, hosting over 45 esteemed research institutions, being home to Queen’s University, the Royal Military College and St. Lawrence College. It also boasts advanced technology commercialization capabilities and organizations such as Kingston Processing Metallurgy, GreenCentre Canada and CMC Microsystems. This impressive combination of academic and technological expertise positions Kingston’s ecosystem as globally exceptional,” says Norman Musengimana, Business Development Manager – Start-ups & Entrepreneurship. “The city significantly influences the Energy and Environment Industry, primarily through its leading-edge technologies and innovation. Pioneering inventions, developments and commercialization in electric vehicle battery storage, rare earth minerals recycling, water treatment and testing technologies; just to mention a few have all originated and flourished from Kingston to the world.”
An award ceremony held early January highlighted the accomplishments of global ecosystems. Kingston’s victory in the Best Ecosystem in Energy and Environment category reflects Kingston’s dedication to sustainability and innovation.
“We are thrilled to announce that Kingston has been recognized as the Best Ecosystem in Energy and Environment by StartupBlink. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our community in fostering a sustainable and innovative start-up ecosystem,” said Donna Gillespie, CEO, Kingston Economic Development. “Kingston’s achievement in the energy and environment sector highlights the city as a hub for start-ups dedicated to addressing global challenges and creating positive environmental impact.”
To learn more about Kingston’s thriving start-up ecosystem and services offered by Kingston Economic Development visit investkingston.ca
Media Contact:
Nour Mazloum
Marketing & Communications Manager
Kingston Economic Development Corporation
613-329-9270
mazloum@investkingston.ca
