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“Our City is home to a diverse array of talent that must be represented in the events and programming we put on for each other and for the world,” said Mayor Tory. “As a city and as a growing innovation economy, diversity and inclusion are a huge part of our value proposition and I will be supporting and championing those events that help build that reputation at home and globally.”
Mayor Tory made the commitment at a Women Founders & Leaders in Technology event on Thursday, part of the #MoveTheDial initiative, which aims to increase female participation and leadership in tech to make Canada the world’s strongest and most inclusive tech ecosystem. The City of Toronto is a founding sponsor of #MoveTheDial.
“We believe that advancing the full diversity of our talent pool will ultimately increase our nation’s economic growth and prosperity,” said Jodi Kovitz, founder of #MoveTheDial. “We started this initiative to encourage people to take real action to advance the representation and success of women within Toronto’s tech sector. I am thrilled that the Mayor chose our event to make this important pledge.”
The event was co-hosted by Toronto law firm Osler LLP, one of #MoveTheDials’ founding sponsors, and Informed Opinions, whose new initiative, ExpertWomen.ca, provides a national online resource designed to make it easier for journalists and conference programmers to find qualified women.
Mayor Tory’s pledge will also be championed by the City of Toronto’s Economic Development Chair Councillor Michael Thompson and Councillor Michelle Holland, Mayor’s Advocate for the Innovation Economy.
“Toronto’s diversity is a big part of what makes our economy unique and competitive,” said Councillor Thompson. “As a City, we’re invested in advancing the economic prospects of all our businesses and all our residents and I support all those who champion diversity in their events and programming.”
“Toronto is a growing global centre of technology and innovation,” said Councillor Holland, who is currently representing the City at London Tech Week. “I want the world to know what our city has to offer, and that means placing a spotlight on the full diversity of our technology sector, including the growing number of female leaders.”
The Mayor’s announcement builds on many important initiatives related to diversity in tech being carried out in Toronto, including:
A curated platform that includes the names of women from various industries willing to join company board.
Helps find talented women and people of color to speak at tech-related events in Toronto.
Advocates for the entrepreneurial success of underrepresented communities in Toronto.
A program that aims to build community through peer learning, communication and storytelling by bringing together founders and their staff.
The City of Toronto sponsors women founders to participate in the program.
A global initiative designed to radically transform the way we finance, support, and celebrate female entrepreneurs.