An aerial photo from above the Owen Sound harbour looking towards the city at twilight, showing a vibrant downtown lit up against the backdrop of the escarpment and the sunset beyond

Economic Development

Where You Want to Work

A row of people seated in chairs wearing matching blue socks featuring an isotope pattern.

Our Clean Energy Era

Owen Sound is one of four founding members of the Southwestern Ontario Isotope Coalition, a partnership with Saugeen Ojibway Nation, the Nuclear Innovation Institute, and the Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council to drive research and investment in lifesaving medical isotopes. We’re also part of the Clean Energy Frontier, a tri-county network driving innovation in Canadian energy production in partnership with Bruce Power.

Many local companies are pioneering new methods to decarbonize and electrify their industries, including globally-recognized innovators like Hydrogen Optimized and MacLean Engineering.

A 3D printer creates an abstract shape from light green material, starting out with soft, round edges that gradually become sharper and more defined.

Innovation Partners

As a hub for regional connectivity and innovation, Owen Sound works alongside Grey County and neighbouring municipalities to ensure that you can access the people, information, and resources to build or grow your business.

The Sydenham Campus is a regional skills training, trades, and innovation center in Owen Sound, adjacent to Georgian College, with support for entrepreneurs and small businesses. It is also host to the region’s largest Makerspace at 8,000 sq.ft., complete with eight dedicated fabrication spaces to support prototyping and training. Over 150 machines and state-of-the-art equipment are available in this space.

A lush, tree-lined creek in Harrison Park.

Climate Change Resilience

While enjoying the natural protection of our freshwater resources and stable geology, Owen Sound is doing its part to prepare for climate change impacts through regional collaboration on mitigation strategies and preparedness.

We’re also investing in future changemakers as host to the Youth Climate Action Conference, and a proud member of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative.

Community Investment

Our community has identified targeted areas for growth and investment.

The tools to support these investments include a five-point Community Improvement Plan, grants for individuals and businesses, physician recruitment initiatives, and county-wide economic development programs.

In the Know

Economic Development Newsfeed

  • Aerial view of a residental building being built
    Owen Sound Celebrates Record-Breaking Development Success

    Owen Sound is experiencing remarkable development growth in 2025, with building activity reaching historic highs. Years of preparation by City Council, along with the dedicated work of city staff, are now paying off as major projects move forward and investment in the city surges.

    Construction values in Owen Sound have reached $214.5 million year-to-date. In the past six years, construction values peaked at $67 million in 2020. This exceptional growth reflects both the City’s commitment to strategic planning and the strong interest from developers in Owen Sound’s future.

  • Owen Sound Economic & Industry Brief: December 2025

    The first edition of our quarterly economic development newsletter, which will bring you updates on the collaborations, investments, and sector developments helping strengthen Owen Sound’s economic future.

    This edition includes:

    • Recently Approved: External Relations and Investment Attraction Action Plan (2025–2027)
    • Priority Growth Sectors
    • Strengthening Regional Partnerships
    • Intergovernmental Relations
    • What’s Next
  • Arena floor set up for Home Show
    Grey Bruce Home and Lifestyle Show Vendor Registration Now Open

    The 2026 Grey Bruce Home and Lifestyle Show will be held at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre and JD McArthur Arena on Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The show now has a new name to better reflect its broader content, which has expanded to meet our attendees’ needs. The new branding highlights a more comprehensive experience. The traditional home design, renovation and outdoor living will now also include personal wellness, recreational activities such as hunting and fishing, technology, culture and healthy choices. The rebrand signals growth, freshness, and relevance to today’s evolving interests and consumer habits.

  • City Celebrates Groundbreaking at Harbour West Development at Former BCK Site

    Construction has officially begun on ‘Harbour West’, a major new housing development that will bring 224 rental apartments to Owen Sound’s west waterfront area.  The groundbreaking ceremony marks an exciting new chapter for the former Black Clawson Kennedy (BCK) property at 1144 1st Avenue West.

    The Harbour West project, led by Hansa Financial & Property Management, will transform the long-vacant waterfront site into a six-building residential space featuring 224 rental apartments. Site preparation is underway, including the crushing of existing concrete for reuse on site, as well as groundwork for piling and foundation. The first tenants are anticipated to move in by Fall 2026.

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