Workday, the American talent management company, is making a major bet on Canada’s tech scene. Over the next five years, the company says it plans to invest CAD $1 billion in its Canadian operations with the aim to expand hiring across AI development, engineering, product innovation, customer support, and field operations.
At the moment, the company lists 35 open roles in the country, but the long-term plan is expected to create many more positions. Beyond numbers, this new development is expected to build a unique tech environment that not only has the ability to serve but can also navigate the nation’s regulatory, linguistic, and operational landscape.
What This Means For Tech Talents
A significant portion of the investment targets talent acquisition across multiple disciplines, including AI development, engineering, product innovation, customer support, and field operations. The company said it also plans to strengthen partnerships with Canadian universities and academic institutions to build pathways for new graduates and research collaborations.
This will create a wave of opportunities for professionals across Canada’s tech ecosystem. For tech talent already within the country, it opens doors to work on cutting-edge projects, contribute to global codebases from local offices, and gain experience with enterprise-grade AI and HCM solutions that serve some of the largest tech companies.
For tech talent coming in, this expansion could make relocation more attractive as the company plans to grow beyond its major business centres in Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Montreal, and Calgary, where it currently manages approximately 1,100 employees and supports more than 500 clients nationwide. This wider footprint not only increases the number of roles available but also provides opportunities to work in cities with diverse industries and vibrant tech ecosystems.
How Does The US Tech Ecosystem Compare
Given the recent scrutiny and allegations in the US over AI-driven hiring discrimination, the timing of Workday’s investment in Canada is particularly notable. Tightening immigration rules and mounting legal pressures have made US operations more complex for tech firms, making Canada an increasingly attractive hub for both local and international tech talent.
Moreover, the lower cost of hiring in Canada also makes this investment strategic. Choosing to prioritize growth here over the US reflects both cost and talent considerations, while still giving the company access to a deep pool of highly skilled technology professionals.
As more organizations look for AI-powered tools that align with local regulations and business practices, this investment could accelerate the delivery of solutions tailored to domestic needs. In that sense, it reinforces the country’s position as an attractive destination for global tech talent, particularly as building AI and engineering capabilities locally allows firms to tap into homegrown talent while benefiting from cost efficiencies compared to the US.
David Adubiina
