When I first arrived in Kingston in August 2023, I had little idea of what to expect. Like many newcomers, I came with hopes, ambition, and a suitcase full of questions. I was about to begin a master’s program in Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Queen’s University — with no real understanding of what Kingston could offer beyond the campus gates.
I assumed Queen’s was the city’s main hub for business and innovation. But as months passed, I began uncovering the many layers that make Kingston a uniquely dynamic ecosystem.
Saint Lawrence College, I discovered, welcomes thousands of students each year; not far from where I lived, I learned that Fort Henry is home to the Royal Military College, another top-tier institution. All of this made one thing clear: tens of thousands of students, both Canadian and international, choose Kingston as their home every year and are one of the main resources for businesses.
This influx of people is fueling a powerful economic engine. Kingston businesses, both large and small, are tapping into a deep well of talent, energy, and new ideas. These students aren’t just passing through; they’re future leaders, creators, and innovators — and in many cases, future residents.
As an entrepreneur and someone who deeply believes in human potential, I see this as Kingston’s greatest asset. A handful of ambitious, resourceful, and skilled individuals can drive more progress than even large, traditional teams — and Kingston has no shortage of such talent. What’s even more remarkable is how open and flexible local businesses are to engaging with this emerging workforce. Whether you're a student, a startup founder, or a professional transitioning into something new, Kingston offers proximity, access, and possibility.
At the heart of this connectedness is the business ecosystem, including the Chamber of Commerce. I’ve seen firsthand how the Chamber functions as a platform for meaningful dialogue between business owners, institutions, and community leaders. It’s a space where ideas are shared, partnerships are sparked, and opportunities are discovered — often over a handshake and a coffee.
Kingston may appear quiet to the outsider, but make no mistake: beneath its surface is a city buzzing with innovation, driven by the people who choose to call it home. The flexibility of its business community, coupled with the institutions drive to fostering collaboration, makes it a go-to place for ventures to take root and thrive.
Ali Zaydan, CEO of Drivisa Corp
Article published in the July issue of the digital magazine We Are Kingston - Read it here!