Strategy Made by the community, for the community

Make it Kitchener is more than a strategy - it’s a community ethos.  It’s a simple premise that if you want to make a difference in the world, Kitchener is the place to do it.  Because this community will help.  Our advantage is we make change together.  We always have, and always will.

In 2019 and 2020, we challenged our community to explore and ideate on what’s next for Kitchener. The City engaged with over 650 community members, stakeholders, business owners, community leaders, social service providers and housing providers with over 950 touch points in the development of this strategy. This included roundtable discussions, an online survey, an idea board and discussions with numerous advisory committees.  Community input culminated with Ideas of the Brave, a symposium where community, business and institutional leaders and residents met under one roof to think boldly and ambitiously about the transformative change we collectively want to lead as a community.  We challenged you to imagine your ideal Kitchener. What you shared was truly inspirational and your insights built this strategy:

• It’s not just about doing more, it’s about doing better!
• We need to solve major societal challenges such as affordable housing, environmental sustainability and the elimination of systemic barriers.
• We need to aspire to have our own distinct vibrancy and vibe.
• We need to focus on growing employment sectors such as health innovation, creative industries and social innovation.

Have Questions about Make it Kitchener 2.0? 

No problem, for help just contact Victoria Boyle, Economic Development Assistant with the City of Kitchener:

victoria.boyle@kitchener.ca

519-741-2200 ext. 7957