City of Markham Is Campus Universities

DOING BUSINESS IN Markham CANADA’S HIGH-TECH CAPITAL

2015 | TWO

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT NEWS Province follows through on approving new York U campus in Markham Post-secondary programs will contribute to Markham’s knowledge economy and global innovation.

York University’s new campus in Markham Centre will give it easy access to transit, major employers, research centres and the Markham Pan Am Centre Key metrics show excellent global innovation leader. This new campus in Markham Centre job growth solidifies York’s reputation as one of Canada’s leading multi- The City of Markham is campus universities. We are conducting an in-depth poised to meet the increasing de- review of its long-term mand for high-quality education economic strategy, and workplace-based learning op- Markham 2020. (See ork University applauds the Wynne and the Ontario govern- portunities, and well-positioned page 6 for details of the Government of Ontario’s ment have recognized the strong to spur economic growth in review process.) The Y investment in the new York merits of building a York Univer- one of the fastest growing major strategy serves as a University-Markham Centre sity campus in York Region,” said urban areas in the province.” blueprint to guide deci- campus, located in an area of Mamdouh Shoukri, President The University will now work sions about all aspects of the province with a high-level and Vice-Chancellor of York on detailed planning and imple- economic development. demand for post-secondary University. “We are particularly mentation. The new campus will Since the original strat- education. pleased with this recognition of accommodate 4,000 students in egy was developed in York’s considerable strengths as the initial phase, with demand 2007, the City has grown a driver of Ontario’s knowledge driving additional building as in meaningful ways: economy and its position as a part of a long-term strategy. • Population + 20.5% • Employment + 16.7% The new York U campus en- • Small employers joys strong support from its part- The City is conducting ners: The Regional Municipality an in-depth review of its + 16.5% of York, The City of Markham far-reaching economic • Medium employers strategy through the and the university’s academic + 18.7% end of the year and into • Large employers partner, Seneca College, which 2016. For details and + 34.4% will collaborate with York U on timing, visit markham. several joint programs. ca/Markham 2020 “We are delighted that Premier

The York University campus coming to Markham Markham Mayor Centre will further strengthen the opportunities for students and businesses to thrive in Markham.

www.business.markham.ca Nexeya test solutions go beyond the possible From commercial aircraft to military jets, trains to tanks, submarines to satellites, Nexeya has more than 25 years of experience in developing test solutions to meet performance demands for the harshest environments.

n the surface Nexeya validate products being manu- In early 2015 Nexeya Canada Canada is a test and factured, assembled or are in purchased CableTest Technolo- O integration solutions service. This enables Nexeya’s gies of Markham and quickly provider. At a deeper level, partners to produce faster and began leveraging its innovative it enables its partners to test more efficiently, fly longer test technologies to strengthen products that do not exist, and farther, safely move more the group’s core product validate concepts that may people and transport more offering. For details, go to seem impossible and simulate goods on time. nexeya.com scenarios that may be improb- Michael Della Fortuna, CEO able – before any time or of Nexeya Canada, puts it sim- money is allocated to product ply. “What sets us apart from development. other organizations in this space is not only our ability to deliver complex test solutions but also our expertise in developing the solutions that In Markham, Nexeya devel- enable our customers to test ops, designs and manufactures the unknown, simulate endless test equipment that validates scenarios and cost effectively and verifies complex subsys- develop solutions in a virtual Nexeya helps test all the electrical tems and the interconnections environment that will make components, connections, features that bind system assemblies. them market leaders in thefu- and functionality that enable prod- The company delivers state- ture, a future we can realize ucts to perform as intended. of-the-art test capabilities that together.”

QNAP Inc. opens new office in Markham QNAP is expanding its commitment to the Canadian market by establishing its Canadian headquarters in Markham.

nap Inc. (Quality Network The move to Markham Appliance Provider) is a comes as the first step by the Q Taiwanese corporation corporation to expand its pres- founded in 2004 and has ence in North America and subsidiary offices in 15 coun- better serve customers in the tries worldwide. It provides Canadian market. Globally, the networked solutions for file company achieved more than sharing, storage management 100 per cent growth over the and surveillance applications last five years. For details, to address corporate, SMB and visit qnap.com residential needs. The firm’s main products in- A number of other Taiwan- clude network-attached storage based companies have estab- (NAS), network video recorder lished operations in Markham. (NVR), virtualization and digital Among them are Asus Com- signage solutions. Designers puter International, OvisLink QNAP’s Network Attached Storage systems consist of one or more hard concentrate on providing such Corporation, CTCB Bank and drives that are constantly connected to the Internet. The QNAP becomes features as ease-of-use, robust World Journal. the backup “hub” that stores all vital data. operation, large storage capacity, and trustworthy reliability.

2 Markham Thri ves 2015 | TWO Parsons supports 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games with advanced Traffic Management System System kept things moving throughout York Region during busy July and August event months.

n February 2015, the Ontario NETworks® (iNET®) Ad- Ministry of Transportation vanced Transportation Man- I (MTO) selected Parsons to agement System for the MTO provide the Unified Transpor- UTCC. The system collected tation Coordination Centre real time data from Greater (UTCC) Monitoring System, Golden Horseshoe transporta- which supported multi-agency tion, transit and emergency Traffic during this summer’s Pan Am and Parapan Am Games flowed decision-making related to traf- services agencies, integrating much more smoothly than many predicted, thanks to the sophisticated fic and transportation during it into one common interac- Traffic Management System developed and run by Parsons throughout the 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am tive situation map. The system the Golden Horseshoe. Games. York Region and York included video feeds, traffic in- cidents, road construction, road closures, than 70 years of growth in construction management and power outages, transit the engineering, construction, other professional services pack- Region Transit were key part- service disruptions, traffic flow technical, and professional aged in innovative alternative ners in the UTCC, efficiently data, Pan Am Games venue services industries, Parsons delivery methods to federal, managing spectator and athlete route travel times, venue sched- is a leader in many diversi- regional and local government transportation to game venues ule and weather information. fied markets, with a focus on agencies, as well as to private throughout York Region and Parsons’ Markham office is defense/security, industrial and industrial customers worldwide. the City of Markham. the corporation’s Canadian infrastructure. Parsons delivers For more, visit parsons.com Parsons deployed its Intelligent headquarters. Celebrating more design/design-build, program/

Mayor lauds business growth and innovation at annual Markham Board of Trade lunch

eferring to Markham as recent business successes and one of North America’s innovations in the City. R most vibrant financial Among them is the com- services communities, Mayor mitment by the Province of Frank Scarpitti gave an inspir- Ontario to increase GO train ing speech to more than 500 service to Markham with attendees at the Markham two-way, all-day service Mayor Frank Scarpitti (left) highlighted his annual MBT luncheon Board of Trade’s annual lun- between Unionville and speech by chatting with selected guests on stage, including Tim Hockey, cheon in May. It was the largest Union Station. President and CEO of TD Bank. audience in the event’s history. Another important an- “Markham is full of people nouncement has been the Prov- its faculties and such high-tech in advance of the summer Pan who have reached out, reached ince’s selection of Markham Markham-based companies Am and Parapan Am Games, the top and brought success to as the site of York University’s as IBM, AMD, Huawei and and ended by welcoming Chef themselves and those around newest campus. “The university Qualcomm.” de Mission Curt Harnett on them,” the Mayor said. He is a game changer,” stated the The Mayor lauded the stage to talk about the games. illustrated his comments with Mayor. “The campus will cre- City’s efficient preparation of video segments showcasing ate research synergies between the Markham Pan Am Centre

Markham Thri ves 2015 | TWO 3 Activity in Markham’s Life Sciences sector – one of four strategically targeted business segments – has Exploring new doubled in the past seven years as demand grows for breakthrough technologies. Consider how these three companies are changing the landscape for providers and paths to health patients in important ways.

NP Screen™ develops an innovation that can save Engage Biomechanics uses technology to solve lives NP Screen™ is a minimally invasive, highly accurate screening test an age-old problem PosturePod is a wearable, wireless sensor, for early identification of nasopharyngeal cancer – making treatment more connected via the Internet to a data collection and presentation system, for preventing manageable and affordable for patients. pressure ulcers and tracking personal care. ne of the side effects of regular schedule – moving them asopharyngeal cancer is cancerous cells in the nasophar- being confined to a bed from their side to their back or a type of head and neck ynx when there is no evidence O or mobility device for an vice versa every few hours – is N cancer that originates from of a visible tumor. Launched in extended period is that patients known to prevent almost all the nasopharynx (the upper March 2014, the technology was can develop pressure ulcers on occurrences. part of the throat, behind clinically proven in trials at the areas of their skin. The pain- Engage Biomechanics has the nose). In its early stages, University of Toronto and Uni- ful ulcers can threaten patients developed the PosturePod, a nasopharyngeal cancer has flu- versity of Hong Kong, and is with movement impairments or technological solution to this like symptoms, and the cancer now available in North America multiple health issues. Treat- costly problem. The system en- often grows undetected. As a and Hong Kong. ment has high financial costs sures that a patient’s position is result, 80% of diagnosed cases In particular, the company’s as well: An average Stage 3 or monitored continuously, and if around the world are identified mission has been to improve A physician or nurse practitioner performs the NP Screen™ procedure 4 pressure ulcer (breaking the the posture has gone unchanged in late stages, making treatment the survival rate of people who by using a simple, trans-oral swab to collect cells from the affected area for a sufficiently long time, difficult and survival outcomes are at risk for nasopharyngeal for DNA analysis. caregivers are prompted to Headquartered in Markham, perienced entrepreneur. Engage poor. On the other hand, when cancer worldwide. Individuals turn the patient. The cloud- Engage was founded by two has run trials at York Region detected early and treated, sur- with Southern Chinese, South- individuals with an immediate times higher compared to the based data solution provides professors at York University: care homes, and includes on vival rates are over 90% and the east Asian, Inuit, North African family member with this cancer general population. For more skin) requires $40,000 in direct information to managers, nurs- Andrew Eckford, a researcher in its advisory board the CEO of chance of recurrence is low. or Middle Eastern backgrounds have an increased chance of on the genetic test, go medical expenses. ing staff and family members wireless communications; and Unionville Home Society. For NP Screen™ has been de- have shown a higher rate of being diagnosed with the same to npscreen.com Yet, avoiding pressure ulcers – whenever and wherever they Will Gage, a researcher in reha- more about this system, go to signed to detect the presence of contracting the disease. As well, cancer – between two and 15 is simple: Turning patients on a need it. bilitative medicine and an ex- engagebiomechanics.com

nnoMind Technology’s device, trained clinicians can ultrasound more accessible to Centre and has offices at the InnoMind’s impact on healthcare: founder and CEO Dr. identify many medical condi- remote areas. Banting and Best Centre in I Foroohar Foroozan knows tions – from heart problems and Although InnoMind’s target downtown Toronto. point-of-care medical imaging that in a medical emergency, collapsed lungs to blood clots application is emergency, the For details, visit accurate diagnosis is critical to – with a high degree of accuracy technology has the potential innomindtechnology.com technologies Making ultrasound technology smaller saving lives. So, Dr. Foroozan in about two minutes. In the to be integrated into many and more portable allows first responders gathered a highly motivated field, portable high-resolution ultrasound-guided procedures, team of scientists, engineers and ultrasound system enables particularly if miniaturized to fit and caregivers to have diagnostic tools at business developers to focus on medics and firefighters to make within ultrasound interventional their fingertips. creating a high-resolution, com- critical patient care decisions tools. InnoMind presented its InnoMind engineers are in the process of developing pact ultrasound imaging system immediately, when medical profile in the MedEdge summit devices that place diagnostic ultrasound in the hands of for emergency applications. treatment is the most crucial. 2015. The company is located caregivers at emergencies and in remote areas. With a portable ultrasound The technology makes at the Markham Convergence

4 Markham Thri ves 2015 | TWO Markham Thri ves 2015 | TWO 5 Markham conducts an in-depth performance review of its 10-Year Economic Strategy

he Economic Development only timely but critical for

Department at the City assessing the performance of CREATIVE MARKHAM is conducting a Council- the Strategy’s key economic ICT & Life T Sciences approved review process of activities. Input will lead to Convergence the performance of the City’s adjustments that are neces- NETWORKED MARKHAM 10-Year Economic Strategy, sary to help the City continue

Markham 2020. achieving its economic growth SUSTAINABLE MARKHAM Information First adopted by Council vision. Entertainment & Cultural in 2008, Markham 2020 was The review will involve pre- Industries designed as a blueprint to sentations of key performance GLOBAL MARKHAM SUCCESS guide the implementation of indicators through formal

activities to help the City foster public meetings, and with the INFRASTRUCTURE MARKHAM by design Professional sustainable economic growth support of webinars to engage Scientiﬁ c & Technical for Markham. The Strategy businesses, key stakeholders Services HEALTHY MARKHAM has proved to be an effective and the local community. For framework for guiding the details on the review process City’s economic development and presentations schedule, BRANDED MARKHAM Finance & programs. visit business.markham.ca Insurance Services The review process is not TALENTED MARKHAM

Employment by Location (2014) Our actions focus on our ability to retain and attract business and labour. They include: technological infrastructures and social networks; community sustainability; global linkages; efﬁ cient infrastructure (including roads, transit and public utilities); health and wellness; an identiﬁ able brand; creative capacity; and a skilled, educated labour force.

Markham has a steadily growing, knowledge-based workforce, part of a strong employment picture in York Region.

Markham 2020 Review and Implementation Timeline Dates Milestones May–November, 2015 • Economic Development staff researched performance data and consulted with stakeholders • Presentations made to Development Services Committee Stakeholders engaged through presentations at public meetings and via webinars January, 2016 • Presentation to Development Services Committee, focusing on SMEs and Commercialization of Technology activity April 6, 2016 • Markham2020 public event at Markham Theatre 6 – 10:30 p.m. and concurrent webinar June, 2016 • Findings and recommendations presented to Economic Development Committee/Markham Council • Publication of Markham 2020: Success By Design Report

6 Markham Thri ves 2015 | TWO Markham proud to be one of China’s primary investment destinations in Canada Markham’s latest trade mission underlines China’s economic growth and investment opportunities for Canadian exporters as well as opportunities for Chinese firms in Canada.

hina has become the Markham has experienced high world’s second largest levels of foreign direct invest- C economy by nominal ment from China in three GDP, and the world’s largest strategic economic sectors: tar- Markham’s previous missions to economy by purchasing power geted business sectors (ICT, fi- China have proved very successful parity. Over the five past years, nance, digital media), commer- for immediate development for attracting business and two-way bilateral trade between cial real estate, and education. of commercial and mixed-use investment. Canada and China has grown Highlights include relocation developments valued in excess 38 percent, reaching $73.2 of Bank of China (Canada) of $150 million. billion in 2013, making China headquarters from downtown From November 21 to businesses, especially small and Canada’s second-largest trading Toronto to Markham, expan- December 4, Mayor Scar- medium-sized enterprises. partner. Foreign direct invest- sion of Huawei Technologies pitti is leading a business and For updates, contact ment (FDI) into Canada from (Canada), as well as the recent investment mission to China Sandra Tam, Senior Business China grew from C$12.1 bil- relocation and expansion of to strengthen links with key Development Officer, at lion in 2010 to C$25.1 billion Lenovo headquarters. Since strategic partners in China and [email protected] at the end of 2014. 2011, Markham has derived to promote business exchanges. Markham has a long history a total of 700 full-time jobs, The Markham business mission of supporting local business $40 million in annual employ- will present unique opportu- growth by developing long- ment and $4.5 million annual nities and benefits including term trade and investment municipal tax revenue from access to key economic and opportunities in foreign mar- Chinese FDI. As well, Chinese government decision-makers, kets. Over the past four years, investors have acquired land and resources and tools for

Delegation heads to India to promote investment and trade Mayor to lead mission participants to New Delhi, Hyderabad and Kolkata.

ayor Frank Scarpitti will fairs, Trade and Development to lead Markham’s third develop the business itinerary. M business mission to India Companies interested in join- in early 2016. The trip extends ing the delegation are invited from January 30 to February to contact Huyen Hare at 9, 2016 and will include visits [email protected] for more to New Delhi, Hyderabad and information. Early registrants Kolkata. Talks plan to focus on will benefit from assistance pro- infrastructure and engineering vided through provincial and technologies, IT, health, and federal in-market representatives education. who require adequate lead time The City of Markham is col- to assist with customized busi- laborating with local companies ness to business meetings. LEA Consulting, Novo Plastics, and Quanser and facilitators Mayor Frank Scarpitti with members of the Canadian such as the Ontario Interna- Trade Commissioner Service at the organization’s recent tional Marketing Centres and Invest in Canada business reception. the Department of Foreign Af-

Markham Thri ves 2015 | TWO 7 Markham’s Summer Company program gives students a great start Popular program is designed for students ages 15–29 who are returning to school in the fall and have a winning idea for starting a new business.

he Summer Company in Summer Company this program is offered through year. Some of their businesses T the Markham Small included a custom bakery, Business Centre (MSBC) in photography, videography, Yiyi Liang came from Guangzhou, China in 2009 to study business at partnership with the Govern- landscaping, swimming lessons, York University and calls Markham her home. With the help of Summer Company, she has been able to launch her food business, ii’s Kitchen. ment of Ontario. Its purpose is aerial drone photography, and She makes homemade spring rolls, noodles and dumplings and sells her music lessons. Participants are to provide hands-on business creations at local farmers’ markets. training, mentoring, and fund- eligible to receive an initial ing to students who want to award of up to $1,500 to put start a summer business. towards start-up costs, and up A number of other fund- are no longer in school. For Through a competitive to an additional $1,500 upon ing programs are available for more information, visit msbc. process, the MSBC selected 15 successful completion of the Markham’s high school, college markham.ca/youth bright and enthusiastic young program, for a maximum of and university students, as well entrepreneurs to participate $3,000. as youth who have finished or

Michael-Angelo’s hosts Italian delegation food industry delegation a food tasting and cooking from Lazio Italy visited demo enjoyed by Markham A Markham to showcase residents and foodies. Left to their gourmet products at the right: Michael Pugliese, CEO beautiful new Michael-Angelo’s of Michael-Angelo’s; Ward 6 flagship store on Hwy 7 and Councillor Amanda Collucci; Woodbine Ave. Hosted by and Prof. Guido Fabiani, Lazio the Italian Chamber of Com- Regional Minister of Economic merce in Ontario (ICCO), the Development. nine-member delegation held

Summer Company student Chris Tsarvenkov accepts his award from Mayor Frank Scarpitti at the Young Entrepreneur Awards, presented in Markham Council chambers.

Markham is open for business. Contact the Economic Development Department. tel 905.475.4878 fax 905.475.4888 [email protected] 8 Markham Thri ves 2015 | TWO