MEDIA ADVISORY

July 17, 2025 – Ottawa, ON – Thousands made their way into the heart of the capital on Canada Day—and not just to LeBreton Flats. Ottawa’s ByWard Market District saw an estimated 49,358 visitors during the official 12-hour Canada Day programming window, coming impressively close to the 58,000 unique visitors reported at LeBreton Flats. Over the full 24-hour period on July 1, the District recorded 116,422 visits and welcomed 70,965 unique visitors.

The ByWard Market District was also bustling for days leading up to the holiday, with a five-day total of 495,177 visits between June 27 and July 1. June 30 alone saw a remarkable 152,716 visits—eclipsing even Canada Day itself.

While July 1, 2019, remains the benchmark at 138,401 visits, the 2025 numbers reflect an area steadily regaining its stride. In fact, June 2025 visitation surpassed 2019 levels, and Q2 closed nearly one million visits higher than the same quarter in 2019—an encouraging sign of sustained recovery and renewed public interest.

A District on the Rise

From patio-lined streets to street performances, the ByWard Market continues to position itself as a year-round destination. With over 2.5 million visits in June alone, the district’s 2025 visitation is trending back toward 2019 totals, when the Market welcomed more than 25 million visits.

Visits vs. Visitors – What’s the Difference?

Visits refer to the total number of times individuals enter the District. This means a single person may be counted more than once if they enter the area multiple times in a day. Visitors are counted only once—representing the total number of unique individuals. This distinction helps paint a clearer picture of both the intensity of foot traffic and the reach of the district across Ottawa and beyond.

This type of data collection helps the BMDA understand how often people—whether they live, work, or visit—engage with the District, often multiple times a day. Each interaction is not only a chance to experience the area, but also an opportunity for local businesses to make a sale. It also helps us plan for operational needs like plaza cleaning, garbage pickup, and broader economic impact.

QUOTES:

“It’s a strong signal that this is a District on the rise. People are coming back to rediscover the soul of Ottawa. There’s something for everyone here—morning, noon, and night—and there’s a renewed recognition that the area offers more than just nightlife. It’s a vibrant, community- driven space that’s dynamic and welcoming throughout the day, shaped by the people who live, work, and gather here,” Zachary Dayler, Executive Director, ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA).

About the ByWard Market District:

Established in 1827, the ByWard Market District is one of Canada’s oldest and most iconic areas. The district is home to over 350 businesses and welcomes millions of visits annually. The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA), a Municipal Services Corporation (MSC), manages and operates the district.

Data Source:

All visitation and visitor data were provided by Environics Analytics, using anonymized mobile device data and location-based services. These numbers include everyone who lives, works, or visits the ByWard Market District—reflecting the dynamic, shared space we build together.

For more information: www.byward-market.com

Media Contact:

Victoria Williston
Manager of Communications, BMDA
victoria@bmda.ca | 613.875.8830

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AVIS AUX MÉDIAS

POUR DIFFUSION IMMÉDIATE
Le marché By connaît une affluence record lors de la fête du Canada, presque équivalente à celle des plaines LeBreton

Le 17 juillet 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Des milliers de personnes se sont rendues au cœur de la capitale lors de la fête du Canada, et pas seulement aux plaines LeBreton. Le quartier du marché By d'Ottawa a accueilli environ 49 358 visiteurs pendant les 12 heures officielles du programme de la fête du Canada, ce qui est très proche des 58 000 visiteurs uniques enregistrés aux plaines LeBreton. Sur l'ensemble de la journée du 1er juillet, le quartier a enregistré 116 422 visites et accueilli 70 965 visiteurs uniques.

Le quartier du marché By a également été très animé pendant les jours précédant la fête, avec un total de 495 177 visites entre le 27 juin et le 1er juillet. Le 30 juin seulement, il a enregistré 152 716 visites, dépassant même le nombre de visites enregistrées le jour de la fête du Canada.

Si le 1er juillet 2019 reste la référence avec 138 401 visites, les chiffres de 2025 reflètent une zone qui reprend progressivement son essor. En effet, la fréquentation en juin 2025 a dépassé les niveaux de 2019, et le deuxième trimestre s'est clôturé avec près d'un million de visites de plus que le même trimestre en 2019, ce qui est un signe encourageant de reprise soutenue et de regain d'intérêt du public.

Un quartier en plein essor

Avec ses rues bordées de terrasses et ses spectacles de rue, le marché By continue de se positionner comme une destination touristique tout au long de l'année. Avec plus de 2,5 millions de visites rien qu'en juin, la fréquentation du quartier en 2025 revient progressivement aux niveaux de 2019, année où le marché avait accueilli plus de 25 millions de visiteurs.

Visites vs visiteurs – Quelle est la différence ?

Les visites désignent le nombre total de fois où des personnes entrent dans le quartier. Cela signifie qu'une même personne peut être comptée plusieurs fois si elle entre dans le quartier plusieurs fois dans la journée. Les visiteurs ne sont comptés qu'une seule fois, ce qui représente le nombre total de personnes uniques. Cette distinction permet de se faire une idée plus précise de l'intensité de la fréquentation piétonne et de la portée du quartier à Ottawa et au-delà.

Ce type de collecte de données aide l’ADMB à comprendre à quelle fréquence les gens – qu'ils vivent, travaillent ou visitent le quartier – interagissent avec celui-ci, souvent plusieurs fois par jour. Chaque interaction est non seulement une occasion de découvrir le quartier, mais aussi une opportunité pour les entreprises locales de réaliser une vente. Cela nous aide également à planifier les besoins opérationnels tels que le nettoyage de la place, le ramassage des ordures et l'impact économique plus large.

CITATIONS :

« C'est un signe fort que ce quartier est en plein essor. Les gens reviennent pour redécouvrir l'âme d'Ottawa. Il y en a pour tous les goûts ici, matin, midi et soir, et l'on reconnaît à nouveau que le quartier offre bien plus qu'une simple vie nocturne. C'est un espace communautaire dynamique et accueillant tout au long de la journée, façonné par les personnes qui y vivent, y travaillent et s'y rassemblent », Zachary Dayler, directeur général, L’Autorité du district du marché By (ADMB).

À propos du quartier du marché By :

Créé en 1827, le quartier du marché By est l'un des plus anciens et des plus emblématiques du Canada. Il abrite plus de 350 entreprises et accueille des millions de visiteurs chaque année. L’autorité du district du marché By (ADMB), une société de services municipaux (SSM), gère et exploite le quartier.

Source des données :

Toutes les données relatives aux visites et aux visiteurs ont été fournies par Environics Analytics, à partir de données anonymisées provenant d'appareils mobiles et de services de localisation. Ces chiffres incluent toutes les personnes qui vivent, travaillent ou visitent le quartier du marché ByWard, reflétant ainsi l'espace dynamique et partagé que nous construisons ensemble.

Pour plus d'informations : www.byward-market.com

Contact médias :

Victoria Williston
Gestionnaire, communication, ADMB 613.875.8830
victoria@bmda.ca

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Canada Day Weekend in the ByWard Market District: Four Days of Art, Music, and Celebration

June 23, 2025 - Ottawa, ON – The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA) invites residents and visitors to celebrate an action-packed four-day weekend filled with interactive art, vibrant markets, live music, and family-friendly activities—culminating in Canada Day festivities throughout the District.

WILLIAM STREET FINALE: "THE FINAL BOSS"

This year marks the final time William Street (between George and York Streets) will be painted before reconstruction work brings this tradition to a close. To mark the occasion, the BMDA has partnered with internationally renowned arts group Secret Walls to create a one-of-a-kind interactive mural titled “The Final Boss”—a nod to classic children’s games. Local artists will be painting live on June 28 & 29, with the mural completed by June 30. Don’t miss your chance to witness the art in action before the paint dries for good.

OOH FEST + FLY MARKET: JUNE 28–29

Back by popular demand, Ooh Fest and Fly Market return to York Street (between Sussex Drive and Dalhousie Street) on June 28 and 29 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Expect vintage clothing, high- energy DJ sets, curated vendors, and endless market vibes—all in addition to your favourite public market vendors who are with us year-round surrounding the ByWard Market Heritage Hall.

PAINT BATTLE: JUNE 30

On June 30, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., the energy hits a high note with a Secret Walls Paint Battle at the corner of William and York Streets. Watch a 3 vs 3 live paint battle go down, complete with a hype squad and DJ. It’s bold. It’s loud. It’s art like you’ve never seen before.

CANADA DAY CELEBRATIONS: JULY 1

From family fun to live music and patio hangs, the ByWard Market District is the place to be this Canada Day:

Family Fun Zone – ByWard Market Square (George–York Streets)

• Face Painting: 10 a.m.–12 p.m. & 4 p.m.–6 p.m.

• Hip-hop & Afrobeat Dance Workshops by Bikkurim Studios: 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

• Watercolour Painting with Yulia: 12 p.m.–6 p.m. (or while supplies last)

• Flag-Making & Rock Painting: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

• Lawn Games: All day

Ottawa Music Industry Coalition (OMIC) Stage (George Street Plaza)

• Hours: 12 p.m.–8 p.m. | All Ages
  Catch six incredible local acts live on stage—come dance, discover new artists, and celebrate Ottawa’s homegrown sound!

Lowertown 'Block Party' Patio Sponsored by Molson (York-Dalhousie Streets)

• Hours: 11 a.m.–11 p.m. | 19+ Licensed Area
Celebrate with friends on the patio outside Lowertown Brewery—cold drinks, good vibes, and great local atmosphere.

Red Bull DJ Stage (York-Dalhousie Streets)

• Hours: 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Catch a rotating lineup of DJs on the Red Bull Stage delivering non-stop beats and high- energy vibes all day long.

Ooh Fest (York Street-Sussex Drive)

• Hours: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Groove to live DJ sets at this street festival packed with style, sound, and good vibes.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

While most district businesses are open on Canada Day, hours vary—check directly with each business before visiting:

Media Contact:

Victoria Williston - BMDA Manager, Communications

victoria@bmda.ca

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About the ByWard Market District:

Established in 1827, the ByWard Market District is one of Canada’s oldest and most iconic areas, located in the heart of Ottawa. The ByWard Market District is home to over 600 permanent and seasonal businesses, offering a diverse mix of restaurants, retail stores, fresh produce vendors, and artisanal crafts. It’s also host to numerous events throughout the year. The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA), a Municipal Services Corporation (MSC), manages and operates the District. For more information, go to byward-market.com

MEDIA ADVISORY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

ByWard Market District Attracted 22 Million Visits in 2024

January 14, 2025 - Ottawa, ON – In a period of revitalization and reinvestment by multiple levels of government, the ByWard Market district welcomed over 22 million visits in 2024—an average increase of 19 per cent compared to 2023.

The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA), a Municipal Services Organization (MSC) responsible for managing the ByWard Market area, also monitors and tracks visitor and foot traffic data in the neighbourhood. Our annual visitation numbers are trending closer to pre-pandemic levels from 2019 when the area welcomed 25 million visits. Additionally, the monthly visitation for October, November, and December last year in the ByWard Market exceeded the numbers from the same months in 2019, highlighting a strong upward trend.

As the ByWard Market moves into 2025, just two years shy of its 200th anniversary, the BMDA is excited about its enhanced offerings from programming to events to district beautification. The

area will also see the first phase of the ByWard Market Public Realm Plan come to fruition through the William Street Revitalization project. Construction will begin in the spring of 2026 with completion in time for the 200th anniversary of the ByWard Market.

The William Street Revitalization project is funded through the Ontario-Ottawa New Deal, which will see $20 million to revitalize Ottawa’s downtown, including $11.8 million over three years to transform William Street into a permanent pedestrian-only street.

William Street is a key element of the ByWard Public Realm Plan. Referred to as “Segment Two,” the transformation of William Street between George and York Streets into a pedestrian hub will create a prominent gateway to the district. This completed space will connect transit on Rideau Street to key public areas, enhancing the visitor experience and accessibility.

QUOTES:

“As Mayor of Ottawa, I’m both optimistic and excited about these signs of renewal. The ByWard Market has always been the heart of our city, and it’s inspiring to see this data, thanks to the efforts of the ByWard Market District Authority, the Ottawa Police Service, local business owners, residents, and the many social service agencies working together. It was incredible to see so many visitors over the holiday season and during the World Junior Ice Hockey Championships. Every person who walks through the Market is sending a powerful message—that they are committed to breathing new life into this historic neighbourhood. I’m excited for what’s to come,” said Mayor Mark Sutcliffe.

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“The increase in visits is a positive sign for the ByWard Market. It speaks to the ongoing work of the City and the ByWard Market District Authority to revitalize; it also is a strong argument in favour of the need for investments from all levels of government to tackle the ongoing social issues that continue to affect the ByWard Market, Lowertown, Sandyhill and Vanier neighbourhoods of Ward 12. In many respects, Rideau Vanier and ByWard are significant drivers of our local economy," said Rideau-Vanier Councillor, Stéphanie Plante.

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“The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA) is only a year into its existence and we are thankful to see progress being made. Visitors are returning to a beloved neighbourhood in the capital, and businesses are telling us that the situation is improving. The ByWard Market is a national treasure, and we are thankful to the City of Ottawa, the Province of Ontario, and to all of our partners for their dedicated support as we renew this important neighbourhood together,” said Rosemary Thompson, Chair of the Board of the ByWard Market District Authority.

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“We are thankful to all of our partners and are beginning to see the results of a lot of effort to draw people back to the ByWard Market. The increase in visits is positive and helps provide clear data on upward trends. It also makes the case that as a city, we must keep driving interest through engaging placemaking, which should set the stage for improved commercial outcomes,” said ByWard Market District Authority Executive Director, Zachary Dayler.

About the ByWard Market District:

Established in 1827, the ByWard Market District is one of Canada’s oldest and most iconic areas, located in the heart of Ottawa. The ByWard Market District is home to over 350 permanent businesses, offering a diverse mix of restaurants, retail stores, fresh produce vendors, and artisanal crafts. It also hosts numerous events throughout the year. The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA), a Municipal Services Corporation (MSC) manages and operates the district.

For more information, go to byward-market.com.

Media Contact:

Victoria Williston
Manager of Communications, BMDA 613.875.8830
victoria@bmda.ca

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AVIS AUX MÉDIAS

POUR PUBLICATION IMMÉDIATE :
Le marché By attire 22 millions de visiteurs en 2024

Le 14 janvier 2025 - Ottawa (Ontario) - Au cours d'une période de revitalisation et de réinvestissement par plusieurs paliers de gouvernement, le district du marché By a accueilli plus de 22 millions de visiteurs en 2024, soit une augmentation moyenne de 19 % par rapport à 2023.

L’Autorité du district du Marché By (AMDB), un organisme de services municipaux (MSC) responsable de la gestion de la zone du marché By, surveille et suit également les données relatives aux visiteurs et à la circulation piétonne dans le quartier. Nos chiffres de fréquentation

annuelle tendent à se rapprocher des niveaux d'avant la pandémie de 2019, année au cours de laquelle la zone a accueilli 25 millions de visiteurs. En outre, notre fréquentation mensuelle pour les mois d'octobre, novembre et décembre a dépassé les chiffres des mêmes mois en 2024, ce qui indique une forte tendance à la hausse.

Alors que le marché By se dirige vers 2025, à deux ans de son 200e anniversaire, l’ADMB est enthousiaste à l'égard de ses offres améliorées, qu'il s'agisse de la programmation, des événements ou de l'embellissement du quartier. Le quartier verra également la première phase du plan de gestion du domaine public du marché By se concrétiser grâce au projet de revitalisation de la rue William. Les travaux de construction commenceront au printemps 2026 et s'achèveront à temps pour le 200e anniversaire du marché By.

Le projet de revitalisation de la rue William est financé par le Nouveau pacte Ontario-Ottawa, qui prévoit 20 millions de dollars pour revitaliser le centre-ville d'Ottawa, dont 11,8 millions de dollars sur trois ans pour transformer la rue William en une rue permanente réservée aux piétons. La rue William est un élément clé du Plan du domaine public ByWard. Appelée « deuxième segment », la transformation de la rue William entre les rues George et York en un centre piétonnier créera une porte d'entrée proéminente pour le quartier. Cet espace achevé reliera les transports en commun de la rue Rideau aux principales zones publiques, améliorant ainsi l'expérience des visiteurs et l'accessibilité.

CITATIONS :

« En tant que maire d'Ottawa, je suis à la fois optimiste et enthousiaste face à ces signes de renouveau. Le marché By a toujours été le cœur de notre ville, et il est inspirant de voir ces données, grâce aux efforts de l'Autorité du district du marché By, du Service de police

d'Ottawa, des propriétaires d'entreprises locales, des résidents et des nombreux organismes de services sociaux qui travaillent ensemble. Il était incroyable de voir autant de visiteurs pendant les fêtes de fin d'année et les Championnats du monde juniors de hockey sur glace. Chaque personne qui se rend au Marché envoie un message fort, à savoir qu'elle s'engage à redonner vie à ce quartier historique. Je suis enthousiaste à l'idée de ce qui nous attend », a déclaré le maire Mark Sutcliffe.

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« L'augmentation du nombre de visiteurs est un signe positif pour le marché By. Elle témoigne du travail continu de revitalisation de la Ville et de l’Autorité du district du marché By ; elle constitue également un argument de poids en faveur de la nécessité d'investissements de la part de tous les ordres de gouvernement pour s'attaquer aux problèmes sociaux qui continuent d'affecter les quartiers du marché By, de la Basse-Ville, de la Côte des Sables et de Vanier, dans le quartier 12. À bien des égards, Rideau Vanier et le marché By sont des moteurs importants de notre économie locale, « a déclaré Stéphanie Plante, conseillère municipale de Rideau-Vanier.

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«L’Autorité du district du marché By (ADMB) n'a qu'un an d'existence et nous sommes heureux de constater les progrès réalisés. Les visiteurs reviennent dans un quartier bien-aimé de la capitale et les entreprises nous disent que la situation s'améliore. Le marché By est un trésor national et nous sommes reconnaissants à la ville d'Ottawa, à la province de l'Ontario et à tous nos partenaires pour leur soutien dévoué alors que nous rénovons ensemble cet important quartier », a déclaré Rosemary Thompson, présidente du conseil d'administration de l’Autorité du district du marché By.

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« Nous sommes reconnaissants à tous nos partenaires et nous commençons à voir les résultats des efforts déployés pour ramener les gens au marché By. L'augmentation du nombre de visites est positive et contribue à fournir des données claires sur les tendances à la hausse. Elle montre également qu'en tant que ville, nous devons continuer à susciter l'intérêt en créant des lieux attrayants, ce qui devrait permettre d'améliorer les résultats commerciaux », a déclaré Zachary Dayler, directeur exécutif de l’Autorité du district du marché By (ADMB).

À PROPOS DU DISTRICT DU MARCHÉ BY :

Établi en 1827, le district du marché By est l'un des secteurs les plus anciens et les plus emblématiques du Canada, situé au cœur d'Ottawa. Le quartier du marché By abrite plus de 350 entreprises permanentes, offrant un mélange varié de restaurants, de magasins de vêtements, de vendeurs de produits frais et d'artisanat. Il accueille également de nombreux événements tout au long de l'année.L’Autorité du district du marché By (AMDB), une société de services municipaux (MSC), gère et exploite le quartier.

Pour plus d'informations, consultez le site byward-market.com.

Contact presse :
Victoria Williston
Gestionnaire des communications
victoria@bmda.ca

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Happy April Fools Day!

Ottawa, ON – April 1, 2025 – In a move as grand as the legend itself, the ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA) is thrilled to unveil plans for the capital’s latest and most delicious landmark—a larger-than-life beaver statue to commemorate 45 years of Canada’s favourite pastry.

Set to be installed in the heart of the ByWard Market, this towering bronze beaver is poised to become a selfie magnet and a new icon for both pastry lovers and patriots alike. With the beaver proudly standing in front of the historic ByWard Market building, this statue will symbolize Ottawa’s deep-rooted connection to heritage, food, and furry national symbols.

“The beaver has been Canada’s official symbol for 50 years, and Beavertails have been a part of our cultural fabric for 45 years,” said Victoria Williston, BMDA manager of communications. “It’s time we celebrate these two pillars of Canadian identity in the best way possible—with a monument worthy of their status.”

Of course, no great monument is complete without a name, and BMDA invites the public to weigh in. “We’re thinking ‘Bucky ByWard,’ but we want to hear from the people. What would YOU name this sweet addition to the Market?”

For more information or to vote for a name, visit the ByWard Market’s Instagram at @bywardmarket or their Facebook page. 

Media Contact:

Victoria Williston
Manager of Communications
ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA)
victoria@bmda.ca
613-244-4410

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POUR DIFFUSION IMMÉDIATE - Joyeux Poisson d'Avril !

Ottawa, ON – 1er avril 2025 – Dans un geste aussi grand que la légende elle-même, l’Autorité du district du marché By (ADMB) est ravie de dévoiler les plans du tout dernier et plus savoureux monument de la capitale : une statue de castor grandeur nature pour commémorer 45 ans de la pâtisserie préférée des Canadiens.

Prévue pour être installée au cœur du marché By, cette imposante statue de bronze deviendra sans aucun doute un incontournable pour les amateurs de selfies et un nouveau symbole pour les passionnés de pâtisseries et les patriotes. Avec le castor trônant fièrement devant le bâtiment historique du marché By, cette statue incarnera le lien profond d’Ottawa avec son patrimoine, sa gastronomie et ses emblèmes nationaux à fourrure.

« Le castor est un symbole officiel du Canada depuis 50 ans, et les Queues de Castor font partie de notre culture depuis 45 ans », a déclaré Victoria Williston, gestionnaire des communications de la BMDA. « Il est temps de célébrer ces deux piliers de l’identité canadienne de la meilleure façon possible – avec un monument digne de leur statut. »

Bien sûr, aucun grand monument n’est complet sans un nom, et la ADMB invite le public à donner son avis. « Nous pensons à ‘Bucky ByWard’, mais nous voulons entendre les suggestions du public. Comment baptiseriez-vous cette délicieuse nouveauté du marché ? »

Pour plus d’informations ou pour voter pour un nom, rendez-vous sur l’Instagram du marché By (@bywardmarket) ou sur sa page Facebook.

Contact média :

Victoria Williston
Gestionnaire des communications
Autorité du district du marché By (BMDA)
victoria@bmda.ca
613-244-4410

December 04, 2024

Finance

OTTAWA — As the next step in the government’s historic Ontario-Ottawa New Deal, Ontario is investing $20 million over three years to revitalize Ottawa’s downtown and ensure the nation’s capital’s unique character and attractions continue making it a tourism destination for Canadians and international visitors.

“Through our New Deal, our government is taking action to ensure Ottawa is a premier destination for tourism and a safe, vibrant place for those who call it home,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance. “Through our investments and partnership with the city, we’re making our national capital safer and helping attract visitors, jobs and investment for the long term.”

“Ottawa’s downtown, including the ByWard Market, is vitally important to the local economy and quality of life for our residents,” said Mayor Mark Sutcliffe. “This investment of $20 million from the Provincial Government is a boost to our revitalization efforts in the Market. This important funding will enhance the safety, vibrancy and economic growth of our downtown core.”

Revitalization initiatives include:

• $1.05 million over three years for community safety initiatives by the Somerset West Community Health Centre that support people experiencing homelessness, substance use or mental health challenges and provide job-skills training.

• $11.8 million over three years to transform William Street into a permanent pedestrian-only street and to enhance the ByWard Market, including to make ByWard Market Square into a seasonal street open to traffic and parking most of the year and pedestrian-only in the summer. Completion is expected by fall 2026, leading up to the 200th anniversary of the ByWard Market.

• $3.85 million over three years to improve signage and other street-specific upgrades.

• $1.5 million to Invest Ottawa to attract new investment from international and local companies to help stimulate sustainable, long-term economic growth.

• $1.35 million over three years for marketing and promotion to attract residents, visitors and new businesses downtown, and develop a culture and entertainment district, which would be launched in 2026 as part of 200th anniversary commemorating the founding of Ottawa.

The initiatives also include $450,000 for a new Downtown Vibrancy Office that will be managed by the Ottawa Board of Trade and build business and investor confidence by implementing additional revitalization projects.

“As a leading jurisdiction for the research and development of critical technologies, Ottawa is an ideal destination for domestic and multinational companies looking to expand their operations,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “Through Invest Ottawa, our government is ensuring the Ottawa Region remains at the forefront of industry collaborations and strategic investments that will drive economic growth and create new, good-paying jobs across key sectors.”

The New Deal is helping ensure Ottawa’s sustainable, long-term growth and prosperity. To date, Ontario has made local investments to enhance public safety, address increased numbers of asylum seekers and people experiencing homelessness through emergency shelter operations. Work continues on transportation initiatives, such as a three-phased assessment of potential provincial ownership of Ottawa Road 174, a new interchange at Highway 416 and Barnsdale Road, and providing funding to repair and upgrade major connecting routes and rural roads critical to keeping the people, goods and services of Ottawa moving.

Quick Facts

• The agreement between the province and city invests in Ottawa’s unique needs as national capital and regional economic hub, helping ensure the city’s sustainable, long-term growth and prosperity. Ontario is providing up to $543 million in operating and capital funding tailored to fuelling Ottawa’s economic recovery and accelerating revitalization of the downtown core. Funding will further support upgrading and building essential road and highway infrastructure to support the local economy and drivers across Ottawa’s large suburban and rural footprint.

• Ottawa is Canada’s national capital and Ontario’s second largest municipality, with a growing population of more than one million residents. Ottawa is geographically four times larger than Toronto, encompassing interconnected urban, suburban and rural areas. The city is an important interprovincial gateway to Quebec and Eastern Canada and is uniquely reliant on the public administration sector.

Quotes

"Small businesses are the backbone of Ontario’s economy, representing 98 per cent of all businesses and employing nearly 2.5 million people. Our Small Business Enterprise Centres are vital to their success and provide them with the support they need to scale and grow. SBEC’s are an integral part of our small business ecosystem and ensuring they have the resources they need to carry out this very important work is paramount. I am thrilled that Ontario is dedicating $1.5 million over three years in Invest Ottawa as part of the New Deal for Ottawa. This investment is key to ensuring Ontario remains the best place to live, raise a family, and start a business."

- Nina Tangri
Associate Minister of Small Business

"We extend sincere thanks to the Government of Ontario for this critical funding for our region. It will catalyze powerful foreign direct investment and business expansion, driving economic growth in key sectors across Ottawa and Eastern Ontario. As a global tech and business hub with the highest concentration of tech talent in North America, our region represents a wealth of expertise, capability, and economic opportunity for our province. Ottawa is a magnet for global high-growth tech firms and talent that create multi-generational jobs, revenue, and economic impact. Together with partners across our community, we look forward to attracting new companies, investment, and business opportunity by harnessing the full potential of Canada’s Capital. This will fuel new jobs and further increase Ottawa’s impact as an economic engine for the province."

- Sonya Shorey
President and CEO, Invest Ottawa

"The Ottawa Board of Trade commends the Ontario government for this significant investment in downtown Ottawa as an important economic driver in our region and our province. This commitment builds on the collaborative work we’ve undertaken with the city and key economic partners to launch the Downtown Ottawa Action Agenda. It also demonstrates the power of working together at all levels of government to drive positive change. The new Downtown Vibrancy Office will be instrumental to implementing revitalization projects and boosting investor confidence. We’re eager to continue our partnership with the province, the city, and local stakeholders to transform Ottawa’s downtown into a more diverse, resilient and vibrant city core, one that attracts residents, businesses, and visitors alike."

- Sueling Ching
President and CEO, Ottawa Board of Trade

Additional Resources

Ottawa New Deal Continuing to Deliver for Eastern Ontario

A New Deal for Ottawa

Terms of the agreement between Ontario and Ottawa

Full Terms of the Ontario-Ottawa Agreement through the Ottawa Consultation Mandate

Media Contacts

Colin Blachar
Minister Bethlenfalvy’s Office
Colin.Blachar@ontario.ca

Scott Blodgett
Ministry of Finance
Scott.Blodgett@ontario.ca

Read this on the province’s website here.

ByWard Market Unveils First Winter Market Season with Ottawa Tourism Support

OTTAWA, ON - November 18, 2024 - The ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA), is excited to launch of the first ByWard Winter Market, a ten-week celebration in the heart of Ottawa. Made possible thanks to the support of Ottawa Tourism's Destination Development Fund, the market will bridge the holiday shopping season with the iconic Winterlude festival, creating an unforgettable winter experience that contributes significantly to Ottawa’s visitor economy.

In line with Ottawa Tourism’s vision, the ByWard Winter Market is set to enhance community prosperity by driving economic growth. By expanding winter tourism, the BMDA will contribute to a broader economic impact, strengthening Ottawa’s status as a must-visit destination.

“Each year, tourism in Ottawa attracts nearly 9.8 million visitors, generating $2.6 billion in visitor spending,” says Catherine Callary, Vice President of Destination Development at Ottawa Tourism.  “Events like the ByWard Winter Market play a critical role in this impact, drawing locals and visitors to enjoy unique seasonal programming, engage with local businesses, and experience Ottawa’s winter charm.”

The outdoor market component, which kicks off on November 22, 2024, aims to bring the community together creating a warm, inclusive environment leading up to Ottawa’s beloved Winterlude festival. Even after the outdoor market wraps up on January 5, 2025, special events and programming will continue in the district until January 30, 2025, ensuring a season filled with winter magic.

“The ByWard Winter Market is an exciting chapter in our story, bringing fresh energy and expanding our seasonal offering in the heart of Ottawa. Nearly 200 years ago, the city’s journey started right here in ByWard, and we’re keeping that spirit alive with spaces that celebrate community and local flavor,” said BMDA Executive Director Zachary Dayler. “This place is more than just a market—it’s a district where people gather, explore, and experience the magic of the nation’s capital in every season.”

A highlight of the inaugural ByWard Winter Market will be the introduction of a brand-new synthetic skating rink, made possible through the support of the Destination Development Fund. Unlike traditional ice rinks, this sustainable and eco-friendly 88ft rink offers a skating experience that’s accessible to everyone, regardless of the temperature, enhancing Ottawa’s winter landscape.

For more information about the ByWard Winter Market, including schedules and updates on programming, visit byward-market.com/winter-market.

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For more information, please contact:
Victoria Williston
Manager of Communications, BMDA
613-875-8830
victoria@bmda.ca

About the ByWard Market District Authority

Enhancing the experience for both residents and tourists alike, the ByWard Market District Authority (BMDA) is a Municipal Services Corporation (MSC) in Ottawa entrusted with overseeing the public market program in both the ByWard and Parkdale areas. As the steward of the ByWard Market District, the BMDA also supports a vibrant business community with over 350 permanent retail and restaurant establishments. Visit the BMDA website and be part of the tradition—stop By!

About Ottawa Tourism

Through its values of inclusivity, trust, collaboration, and innovation, Ottawa Tourism pursues its vision to be one of Canada’s most visited, sustainable, vibrant, and appealing urban destinations, as well as the tourism authority for key economic development and city-building decisions in Ottawa. Canada’s capital welcomes an estimated 9.8 million visitors annually who spend $2.6 billion in the community.