Focus on 1855 Whitby

Whitby is making its mark as a top destination for business, talent and investment. Whitby’s innovation district, located in Downtown Whitby,is home to close to 20 technology businesses, including 1855 Whitby, 360insights and geekSpeak. Today, the technology sector in downtown Whitby collectively employs over 500 people.

Let’s learn more about 1855 Whitby – Whitby and Durham Region's first and only technology accelerator. 

1855 – building the local technology ecosystem and driving job creation

Located in the former provincial Land Registry Office, 1855 Whitby is a heritage site dating back to 1873. A strategic initiative that began with the Town of Whitby and the CEO of 360insights, 1855 was created to fill a defined gap that existed in the innovation ecosystem in the Durham Region.

Their purpose

Technology accelerator “1855 Whitby” is helping to grow high potential technology companies to commercialization, creating more local jobs and economic prosperity for both Whitby and Durham Region. Its goal: to position tech companies for the global stage and a successful business future.

Their people

Currently there are 14 members of 1855 Whitby, many of which are homegrown success stories started by Whitby residents, including MobileXCo, Hire and Fire your Kids, National Pro Staff and Howlurr. Watch and listen to 1855 Executive Director, Dennis Croft  speak more about how 1855 Whitby members are driving local innovation.

Their impact

Since it’s opening in April 2019, 1855 Whitby has supported 18 companies and created nearly 100 new local jobs. Their goal is to support 100 companies and create 1,500 new local jobs within their first five years of operation.

1855 and the Town of Whitby are continuing to support local job creation through their landing pad strategy, which sees both organizations work with graduates of the accelerator program to find more permanent work space within Whitby. The first such company was SmartDesk.

“We decided to locate our company where we saw the greatest potential for growth and success. Whitby has access to talent, resources, and strong business leadership. Whitby was an easy choice.” – Craig Poulton, Vice President – Sales & Marketing, SmartDeskCRM

Learn how business innovation and community come together in Whitby 

More information

For more information and resources, visit whitby.ca/businessresources.