Talent Magnet - A man and a woman are in an interview or business conversation

Talent Magnet

A city that consistently attracts global, high-quality talent

Entrepreneurs and businesses around the world are increasingly competing for talent that’s educated, skilled in niche areas and globally minded. Many companies are drawn to Vancouver for this very reason. The city’s outstanding career opportunities, exceptional brand, quality and affordability of education and immigration processes attract some of the world’s best and brightest. This includes emerging business leaders and more than 60,000 international students who choose BC each year, recently ranked as having the third-best education system in the world.

Companies are drawn for talent that’s educated, skilled in niche areas and globally minded

The greater region includes more than a dozen other outstanding institutions that collectively complement teaching and research expertise with strong international linkages and a willingness to collaborate with business. This dynamic environment fosters spinoff companies, startup incubation, technology licencing and commercialization.

Don't just take our word for it...

At the same time, local educational institutions have tapped into Vancouver’s diversity — building strong multicultural and international programs and links. These ties benefit local businesses by improving access to foreign language skills, international business practices, overseas talent and potential business partners. Canada and British Columbia have supportive and fast-track immigration programs learn more about how professionals can transform their careers in Vancouver or how companies can hire foreign workers to grow their businesses.

With more than 120 unique languages identified in Vancouver’s school system, education in Vancouver is truly international. In addition, 60 per cent of K–12 students speak a language other than English at home.

Vancouver is an immensely walkable and bike-friendly city, with more than 265 kilometres of bikeways and plans for public bike share — especially popular options with the top global talent that is choosing to work, live and play here. The city is well-served by buses, rapid buses, light rail, sea and aqua buses; 85 per cent of Metro Vancouver residents have a bus stop within 400 metres of home. Though the reality is that a car isn’t necessary to get around Vancouver, car-share options through companies including car2go, Evo Car Share, Modo and Zipcar make things easy.

In short, there’s a reason why Vancouver is consistently ranked among the world’s top for liveability and quality of life.

Vancouver is home to a mix of world-ranking universities and specialty schools. In fact, according to a recent study by global higher education analysts QS Quacquarelli Symonds, Vancouver is the 10th best city in the world for students! More recently, the Province of British Columbia has launched a new $12 million scholarship fund that will support students in graduate degree programs through to 2021 (learn more). All told, the greater region includes more than a dozen other outstanding institutions.

Universities & Colleges

Speciality Schools