Kingston’s momentum continues as its global ranking increases
Kingston, Ontario – May 20, 2025 – StartupBlink announced its Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2025 rankings today, with Kingston maintaining its position as the top small city (100,000 – 500,000 population) in Canada for the strength of its startup ecosystem for the sixth consecutive year, ranking #9 in Canada overall, is one of only two small cities to make Canada’s top ten. The limestone city climbed one spot to rank #178 globally and ranked #7 among small cities in North America.
The world’s most comprehensive startup ecosystem mapping and research center, StartupBlink, annually ranks 1,473 cities in 114 countries by their startup ecosystem strength. This year’s report highlights Kingston’s exceptional performance in its priority sectors, sustainable manufacturing and life sciences/health innovation. Kingston ranked #8 worldwide in cleantech, securing a spot in the global top 10. The city is also recognized as the #4 small city worldwide in the energy and environment sector, #8 globally in the Cleantech industry, as well as ranking #6 in Canada in the health tech sector.
“Kingston’s consistent leadership in the StartupBlink rankings reflects our community’s collaborative approach to economic development and innovation,” noted Kingston’s Mayor Bryan Paterson. “Our city’s recognition as Canada’s top small city for startups and its ranking as 7th among small cities in North America highlight the city’s outsized impact and global competitiveness. Our strategic investments in sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurial support are paying dividends, creating a vibrant ecosystem where businesses can start, scale, and succeed.”
Kingston’s integrated economic development strategy leverages strong partnerships with academic and research institutions, including Queen’s University and St. Lawrence College, alongside established industry leaders and innovation hubs to foster startup growth.
“We’re thrilled to see Kingston not only secure its leadership position but continue to climb in global rankings,” said Donna Gillespie, CEO, Kingston Economic Development Corporation. “Our 8th place global ranking in Cleantech and recognition as the 4th small city worldwide for Energy & Environment reflect Kingston’s strategic focus on sustainable innovation. These results validate our community’s collaborative effort to build an ecosystem that supports entrepreneurs from ideation to commercialization, creating meaningful economic impact and high-quality jobs.”
Norman Musengimana, Kingston Economic Development’s Manager for Start-ups & Entrepreneurship, added, “Kingston’s entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and growth. Our success stems from the passionate entrepreneurs who choose Kingston as their home, alongside our network of mentors, investors, and support organizations who nurture innovation. What’s particularly exciting is seeing Kingston-born startups increasingly making their mark on the global stage while maintaining deep roots in our community.”
To learn more about Kingston’s vibrant startup ecosystem, visit www.investkingston.ca/start
Media Contacts:
Daniel Solorio
Marketing & Communications Manager
Kingston Economic Development Corporation
613-329-9270
solorio@investkingston.ca
