Companies from around the world are looking to Calgary as an answer to their expansion strategy.
Fortinet, a U.S.-based global leader in cybersecurity solutions and services announced plans to invest $30 million and create 165 new jobs in Alberta’s tech sector. With support from Invest Alberta and Calgary Economic Development, and a grant from the Government of Alberta, Fortinet will expand into Calgary’s downtown core, creating a cutting-edge cybersecurity tech hub.
“Fortinet’s expansion in Calgary is evidence that global companies have the ideal environment here to grow and scale,” said Brad Parry, President and CEO, Calgary Economic Development.
“With the city’s rapidly growing tech talent workforce, and businesses embracing digital transformation, Fortinet’s investment continues the momentum we’re seeing across sectors in Calgary.”
The announcement signals the continued development of Calgary's tech sector and dynamic tech talent workforce, a priority outlined in the economic strategy, Calgary in the New Economy.
Firm invests in potential of Calgary’s tech talent pool
In Calgary, the firm will be opening a data centre, a training facility for its globally accredited cybersecurity curriculum and a centre of excellence to enhance resiliency and knowledge in safeguarding critical infrastructure and operational technologies.
Supporting their investment, the Government of Alberta's Innovation and Growth Fund (IGF) will contribute over $3 million towards Fortinet’s expansion.
The Alberta-based training facility marks a pivotal step in addressing the global cybersecurity skills shortage.
To address the forecasted shortage of tech talent, Fortinet is providing a new career path to workers needing to re-train or acquire updated expertise. The firm offers one of the industry's most extensive and comprehensive training programs, aimed at diversifying available tech talent.
“Our expansion in Calgary directly contributes to creating valuable employment opportunities and advancing cybersecurity capabilities in the region,” said Joyce Chow, Global Vice President of Talent, Fortinet.
“(Fortinet’s) vision extends beyond providing top-tier security products and services. We aim to innovate constantly and cultivate cybersecurity talent through comprehensive training and development programs,” said Chow.
The facility will actively enhance opportunities for women in STEM fields, contributing to more inclusivity and advancements in technology-related sectors.
Already a partner with the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), the University of Alberta, and the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), Fortinet will work closely with Alberta’s post-secondary institutions to continue efforts to build talent capacity, while promoting its work to diversify the sector.
Calgary’s growth encouraged Fortinet’s decision to call the city home
With the province experiencing an annual 20 per cent employee growth rate, Fortinet recognizes Calgary as an ideal location to continue its global growth and meet the increasing demand for cybersecurity education, and safeguarding critical infrastructure and operational technology worldwide.
Job growth in Calgary is especially concentrated in the technology sector, with CBRE reporting the city saw a 61 per cent tech talent growth rate between 2017 and 2022.
Both Calgary Economic Development and Invest Alberta partner with global companies to encourage the development of tech ecosystem across the province.
Committed to ensuring Fortinet is set up for long-term success with their expansion and future growth in Calgary, Calgary Economic Development continues to provide strategic development support to ensure they have the environment, skilled workforce and connectivity they require.
As a result of ongoing support, Fortinet is poised to secure space in downtown Calgary, acquire equipment, and start hiring immediately, with the goal of having more than 100 staff by the end of 2025.
The space will use emission-reducing technology to minimize its environmental footprint, and ensure Fortinet can adhere to its mission of promoting responsible business practices across its value chain.
Invest Alberta connected Fortinet with available incentives and introductions to the local community.
“Fortinet’s $30 million investment and focus on digital inclusion, green initiatives, and talent development through partnerships with academic institutions make the company the perfect fit for Alberta’s innovation community,” said Rick Christiaanse, CEO, Invest Alberta.
Tech talent and firms continue to realize unexpected possibilities in Calgary.
Learn more about Calgary’s tech ecosystem at LiveTechLoveLife.com, and dive deeper into the city’s economic strategy that champions the growth of Calgary’s culture of innovation and robust talent pool at CalgaryInTheNewEconomy.com.