Of course, AI is a standout. But like anything, it’s the way a business focuses on AI and makes the most of its potential that will count. For example, I think Toronto’s ecosystem is primed to deploy AI to innovate within cleantech, fintech and biotech.

Longevity is such an important megatrend. In a lot of ways, it reflects the convergence of many aspects of business and life. We’re already seeing interesting partnerships bring together academics and entrepreneurs to address longevity at scale. That includes the collaborations between the University of Toronto and the Vector Institute, Schulich School of Business and Tech Stars Toronto, University Health Network and SickKids and University of Toronto. The list goes on. What might have been unlikely partnerships in the past are now emerging to transform AI’s potential into viable commercial solutions and ventures that improve wellness and life. That’s a remarkable trend likely to continue to generate positive outcomes.

The focus on access to capital and red tape reduction could help Toronto startups scale to later stages of company growth. The initiatives and investment funds announced most recently will help founders retain top talent in Toronto and expand their businesses here at home.