Greater Sudbury Builds Strong Economic Momentum in First Half of 2026

Greater Sudbury is continuing to build momentum in 2026, with strong results across employment, investment, business growth and talent attraction highlighted in the City's Economic Bulletin for the first six months of the year. 

The mid-year report showcases a community that continues to attract investment and opportunities, with more than $350 million in construction activity, a labour force of 106,000 people and an unemployment rate of 6.4 per cent, below both the provincial and national averages. Greater Sudbury was also ranked fifth among Canada's 33 largest cities in BMO Capital Markets' City Labour Market Performance Ranking, climbing an impressive 15 spots from 2025. 

The City's workforce attraction initiatives continue to deliver results. Through the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP), 265 candidates were recommended to help meet local labour market needs, while the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP) supported an additional 20 candidates. Together, these programs helped attract 285 skilled candidates to Greater Sudbury. The Move to Sudbury campaign also generated more than 1,550 inquiries from individuals interested in making Greater Sudbury their home.

Entrepreneurship and innovation also remain strong, with the Regional Business Centre supporting the launch of 45 new businesses and the creation of 85 new jobs during the first half of 2026. 

“We're seeing real momentum across Greater Sudbury,” said the Mayor of the City of Greater Sudbury. “From new investment and construction activity to building more homes needed to support our growing community, attracting talent, supporting entrepreneurs and advancing major projects, the first half of 2026 shows that the decisions we're making today are creating opportunities for the future. These results reflect the confidence people have in our community, and we're committed to building on that progress as we continue to grow our economy, expand housing options and strengthen our quality of life.”

The Economic Bulletin also highlights progress in healthcare recruitment, major development projects, downtown revitalization, tourism, international partnerships and business support programs. 

Residents, investors and business leaders are encouraged to explore the full 2026 Mid-Year Economic Bulletin at investsudbury.ca/economic-bulletin, to learn more about the projects, investments and initiatives helping shape Greater Sudbury's future.