Innovation and advances in technology have tremendous potential to boost economic growth and improve quality of life across Canada. However, the benefits are not accruing equally. Larger technology companies are dominating markets. Jobs are consolidating in major urban centres. Wealth and opportunity are accruing unequally, with a growing number of workers finding themselves in precarious or relatively low-paying jobs. Discrimination and barriers to entry are contributing to a lack of diversity in entrepreneurship, tech jobs, and other high-growth areas of the economy. While digital skills have become increasingly necessary, access to technology, education and training is uneven.

As Canada’s economic model shifts, we have an opportunity to build economic success that ensures greater prosperity for everyone in Canada, and does not perpetuate historical exclusions or inequities. Our work explores the distribution of risks and benefits that come from an innovation-driven economy and informs policies and programs that promote shared prosperity.