3 Ways to Solve Canada’s Tech Talent Shortage

Canada is currently dealing with a major shortage of skilled technology professionals. If you operate a tech startup or manage a non-tech business that relies on digital systems, you may already be feeling the pressure. Across the country, the demand for experienced tech workers is growing faster than the supply, leaving many positions unfilled and projects delayed. This shortage isn’t just affecting businesses but also government agencies, which are struggling to find qualified candidates.

A report by the Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) predicts that Canada’s digital economy will require around 2.26 million workers by the end of 2025. That’s about 11% of the national workforce. To meet this goal, employers across the country need to fill approximately 250,000 new tech-related jobs. The federal government alone currently has thousands of open technology positions, with nearly 30% of its IT roles vacant. This wide gap in tech labor could slow down innovation, economic growth, and public services if left unaddressed.

To remain competitive, Canadian companies need to find smart and sustainable ways to attract and retain top tech talent. Here are three proven strategies that can help solve this growing challenge.

1. Support Work-Integrated Learning and Help Build Canada’s Future Tech Workforce

One effective strategy is to invest in developing new tech talent within Canada. Work-integrated learning programs are becoming increasingly popular. These programs, such as the one recently launched by the Lassonde School of Engineering at York University, give businesses the chance to train and mentor future professionals while increasing workplace diversity and inclusion.

By partnering with educational institutions, you can offer internships or co-op placements to students studying computer science, software engineering, data analytics, and other tech-related fields. Universities like the University of Waterloo, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, Carleton University, and many others provide excellent programs with built-in work experience opportunities.

This approach benefits both students and employers. It allows you to shape and assess potential employees early on while giving students valuable experience. It also helps create a steady flow of new professionals equipped with the latest skills. Organizations such as Mitacs and NSERC also connect employers with universities to support research and training projects, making it easier to access young talent for industry collaboration.

As Canadian businesses look to bridge the tech talent gap, it’s worth noting how other digital industries are successfully growing. For instance, online entertainment platforms, especially those involved in iGaming, are booming. The popularity of free spins casinos in Canada has skyrocketed in recent years, showing how much Canadians enjoy digital experiences. These casinos depend on advanced technologies like encryption, cloud computing, and real-time game mechanics, all of which require skilled developers, data analysts, and security experts. As a result, this sector continues to open up tech jobs and attract investors. The demand from such industries adds to the pressure but also highlights the many opportunities available for businesses that can tap into emerging digital trends.

2. Compete for Canada’s Top Tech Talent with Stronger Job Offers

One of the fastest ways to secure high-level tech professionals is by actively targeting those already working in the field. Many of the experts you need are likely employed by competing businesses, and recruiting them will require a strong offer. Job platforms like LinkedIn or professional networks can help identify experienced individuals who might be open to switching employers if presented with a better opportunity.

This method works well for companies able to offer higher salaries, improved benefits, flexible hours, or remote work options. While large corporations often have the advantage when it comes to budget, small and medium-sized enterprises can still compete by offering meaningful perks, unique work environments, or growth opportunities.

If your business only needs to hire one or two specialized roles and can afford to provide competitive compensation, going after top Canadian talent could deliver fast results. However, if you’re working with limited resources or prefer a more long-term solution, you may want to explore additional approaches.

3. Bring in International Tech Talent Through the Global Talent Stream

When local talent is scarce and training new workers takes time, looking abroad becomes a practical option. Canada’s Global Talent Stream (GTS) is designed to help employers bring in qualified tech professionals from other countries on a fast-track basis. This program addresses urgent workforce needs and helps businesses scale their operations more effectively.

The process begins with an application for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) under Category A or B of the GTS. Once approved by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), the selected foreign worker can apply for a Canadian work permit. In many cases, the process is completed within one or two months, depending on the applicant’s country of residence.

One of the advantages of hiring through the GTS is stability. Workers admitted under this program are generally required to stay with the sponsoring employer for up to three years. This reduces staff turnover and gives you time to integrate international professionals into your team. If you want to keep them longer, you can apply to extend the permit or sponsor them for permanent residency.

Canadian employers often use this route to bring over freelancers they’ve worked with remotely, transfer team members from international branches, or retain international students who have recently graduated from Canadian universities. To qualify, your business needs to be in good financial standing and able to pay fair wages. While the application involves careful planning, the rewards can be significant for businesses seeking long-term technical support.