The tech sector is a bright spot in Waterloo Region’s economy, but there is still a lot of work to be done before it's a truly equitable environment for women and minorities.
Though the closing of their store is tinged with sadness, the Budd family are also optimistic about the future. “We’ve walked King Street every day for 50 years,” says Howie. “We’ve seen the best, and we’ve seen the worst. We’re leaving at a time when King Street is on an upswing, [with] the new condos, high-tech, the LRT. It’s all going to form a new, vibrant King Street which will be the heart and soul of our community. People will be proud of it. No question.”
Waterloo Region is alive with the sounds of music. Whether you’re taking in a concert, streaming hits on your smartphone, singing in the shower or learning to make music, rhythm, harmony and melody are everywhere
One in four Canadians spend more than 30 per cent of their income on a place to live. That means a lot of people may be one pay cheque away from losing their home. In Waterloo Region, there are 3,000 people on the waiting list for subsidized rental units. Some people may have to wait six years for a unit to become available.
There’s a current of optimism about manufacturing in Waterloo Region. We’ve all heard about layoffs and plant closures, but people who make things are positive, whether it’s small-scale, niche production or larger, globally competitive companies marketing their products internationally.