Ottawa is the capital of Canada and a top city for tourists, businesses, and families. The city is famous for its historic hotels, buildings, and Parliament buildings that attract visitors worldwide. It’s a unique place for tourism and offers excursions to natural beauty, parks, and outdoor spaces in and around the region. It’s also one of the world's coldest capitals and a popular place for ice skating along the Rideau Canal and enjoying winter festivities.

The capital city is home to some iconic Ottawa brands, including clothing, artwork, technology, film, and finance. It’s also a fantastic place to explore art galleries and museums, providing excellent opportunities for local artists and exhibits.

Largest Employers and Industries in Ottawa

Ottawa has a wide range of industries that provide employment opportunities, including bilingual positions due to the capital’s two official languages, English and French. The primary employers include government agencies, including the Canada Revenue Agency, Employment and Social Development Canada, Department of Finance, and many non-profits and organizations, including the Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada and Employment and Social Development Canada.

Agriculture, technology, engineering, finance, and media are also included in Ottawa's top companies and industries, including CBC Radio, Engineers Canada, Bank of Canada, Egg Farmers of Canada, the Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and the Canadian Coast Guard. In addition to many large organizations, government agencies, and non-profits, plenty of lucrative financial institutions and insurance firms, including branches from the top five banks in Canada, and credit unions, including Alterna Savings and Credit Union Ltd.

Artisan Companies and Unique Ottawa Brands

Ottawa is also home to many small businesses, start-ups, and artisan shops. These companies feature homemade goods quality services and support the local economy with various items, including clothing, housewares, jewelry, etc. Some of the most notable small companies and artisans include Freewheeling Craft, blanc & turquoise, Cheerfully Made, and Maker House Co. There are many large retailers in Ottawa’s biggest malls and a great variety of restaurants, hotels, and attractions for locals and visitors.

Local Markets and Businesses

Many of Ottawa’s local brands and businesses include retail stores in malls and vendors at the city’s weekly markets and events, including flea markets and venues. There are many high-quality goods and services available in the city, with lots of small businesses setting up shops to establish new brands, including online-based services, handmade products, and services.

Ottawa Brands Summary

Ottawa is one of the most expensive cities in Canada, though it offers an excellent quality of life with employment and business opportunities. The city features fantastic scenery, tourism, and potential for new brands in and around the city.