The innovation and knowledge-based economy has become a major driver of economic growth in urban areas around the world. As a result, the roles of cities and regions in a global economy are being redefined and reshaped. The transformation that is emerging is as significant and as challenging as the transformation made from agriculture to industry. Most significant, is the move away from jobs based on physical activity or repetitive tasks to ones that require analytical skills and judgement.

While cities play an important role in this shifting economy, there is growing evidence of the impact that a creative economy can occur in suburban, small town and rural communities. Eastern Ontario, South Western Ontario and Durham Region have studied the size and magnitude of their creative economy resulting in action oriented strategies and plans.

These three studies form the basis from which Southern Ontario communities can work towards building stronger, more vibrant and dynamic creative economies independently and through collaborative efforts.

Eastern Ontario: Canada's Creative Corridor
Funded by The Eastern Ontario CFDC Network Inc, Fednor and The Government of Canada, 2009.
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Durham Region: Creativity on the City's Edge
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South Western Ontario: Creative Potential; Straddling Two Mega Regions
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