Building Global Connections for Local Impact
City Advances International Business Relationships
RICHMOND HILL – Supporting local businesses means staying connected globally. This week, Richmond Hill is in Germany, strengthening international relationships that support innovation, attract investment and create opportunities for local businesses and talent at home.
Members of the City’s Economic Development team joined Mayor David West to meet with global companies, academic institutions and innovation organizations in Waldkirch, Munich, Augsburg, Hamburg and Hannover. The mission builds on existing relationships with companies that have Canadian head offices in Richmond Hill and continues conversations first established during a similar mission in 2025.
As part of the visit, the City signed a Letter of Intent with the Augsburg Innovations Park, a German technology centre focused on accelerating business innovation and technology transfer, formalizing a shared commitment to collaboration around innovation, research and economic development. The agreement reflects a mutual interest in strengthening connections between businesses, researchers and innovation ecosystems in both communities.
The City also highlighted progress on STAC, the Sustainability Transitions Accelerator of Canada, a new initiative in partnership with the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH). Through STAC, Richmond Hill will help local and Ontario businesses prepare for international markets by connecting them with global expertise, training and partnerships. The program supports companies working in areas such as clean technology, climate resilience, water and health solutions, helping them diversify beyond traditional markets, advance commercialization and build international connections that translate into growth, investment and jobs here at home.
By continuing to invest in global partnerships, Richmond Hill is strengthening Canada’s manufacturing and technology sectors, expanding access to talent and supply chains, and helping to ensure the local economy remains competitive in an increasingly connected world.
For more information on Richmond Hill’s Economic Development initiatives, visit RichmondHill.ca/EcDev.
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“I believe strong local economies are built on long‑term relationships. As the world continues to change, staying connected globally is an important part of supporting our local economy. By continuing to build relationships with international partners and global companies connected to Richmond Hill, we’re creating the conditions for collaboration, investment and job growth here at home.”
- Mayor David West
