A Guide to Coworking in Ottawa

As Canada’s capital city, it’s no surprise that coworking in Ottawa is on the rise. The Canadian flexible workspace market is worth an estimated USD 3.24 billion, and market projections suggest it will reach USD 4.75 billion by 2029.

Like the rest of the country, shared offices in Ottawa are becoming more prevalent. The trend is popular with freelancers and small businesses looking to keep overheads to a minimum.

However, coworking is also a desirable solution for larger companies. Ottawa-based e-commerce companies have led this charge by encouraging its workforce to go fully remote in recent years.

The Government of Canada is also supporting this model. The GCcoworking project provides coworking sites for participating organizations, including many in Ottawa.

By the end of 2023, around 12,000 federal public servants from 50 departments and agencies had registered for coworking and shared office schemes.

When it comes to finding a coworking space, Ottawa has plenty of options. However, there are a few factors to consider when choosing a coworking office. From costs, transport, and amenities to networking opportunities, there’s plenty to think about.

To help you on the way to finding the right shared office space in Ottawa for your business, let’s explore the city in more detail.

Geography of Ottawa

Based in the province of Ontario, Ottawa is Canada’s capital city and was founded in the 1850s. It has an estimated population of 1.4 million and is situated 200 km from Montreal and 90 km from the nearest US border crossing.

Ottawa is also the political center of Canada, with federal headquarters, parliament, and the Supreme Court of Canada based in the city.

The Federal Government is, therefore, the largest employer. However, other prominent industries include tech, life sciences, health care, aerospace, defense, and security.

Some of the fastest-growing companies in Ottawa include tech firms such as ecommerce software Trellis, SaaS enterprise ZeroTek, and digital health innovators TryCycle Data Systems.

7 Benefits of establishing your company in Ottawa

Utilizing a shared workspace in Ottawa places your company at the heart of Canada’s political and business economy. However, when it comes to Ottawa’s business benefits, there are plenty for any new startups or established enterprises.

1. Global tech hub

Ottawa is a thriving center for innovation with worldwide acclaim. As of 2021, the region has a total tech workforce of 76,200. It also has the highest concentration of tech talent in North America.

Additionally, Ottawa is a recognized leader in AI and Machine Learning. The region’s leading fintech company, MindBridge AI, amassed over $40 million in venture capital. It also featured in the World Economic Forum’s list of 100 technology pioneers.

Meanwhile, Shopify invested $1 billion in R&D to incorporate AI into its network fulfillment centers in the US and Canada. Furthermore, IBM recently established a Machine Learning Hub in Ottawa.

As one of five hubs worldwide, IBM provides invaluable support to startups and scaling companies in Canada’s capital. Because of this, basing your business in a shared workspace in Ottawa will give you access to this support network.

2. Access to talent

Ottawa is home to four post-secondary institutions, producing 130,000 students every year. Around 20% of these students specialize in STEM subjects.

The region also has the highest number of post-secondary educated residents in Canada, with 41% possessing at least a bachelor’s degree. Establishing a coworking space in Ottawa gives businesses access to a lot of skilled and qualified potential.

With a steady pipeline of talent and an established network of such skilled labor, the region is great for startups, scale-ups, and SMEs.

If you’re looking to grow your business or collaborate with like-minded entrepreneurs, a shared office in Ottawa is a valuable way to build new relationships with professionals and new talent.

3. Low operational costs

Second only to Mexico, Canada is one of the G7’s top countries for low business costs. With a corporate minimum tax rate of 2.7%, Ontario is an attractive province for all sorts of companies.

The region also has one of the highest median family income rates in the country, along with one of the lowest housing costs in Ontario’s major regions. The average housing costs in Ottawa are also below the national Canadian average.

With low business and living costs, the city has established itself as a desirable location for new and growing businesses. This means a shared office in Ottawa helps keep business overheads to a minimum.

4. Diverse economy

Ottawa’s global reputation in the tech sector is certainly worthy of note. However, the city is also home to other booming industries, including aerospace and defense, data analytics, and digital media.

The aerospace and defense industry in Ottawa includes over 190 companies employing thousands of skilled workers.

Canada’s wider aerospace industry contributes $20.3 billion to the GDP and accounts for 160,000 (direct and indirect) jobs. The sector has tripled its global market share in recent decades to become the fifth-largest aerospace producer in the world.

Meanwhile, Ottawa’s digital media industry includes over 170 companies, boasting more than 1,600 people. Additionally, with nine industry-specific education programs in the region, there’s a steady flow of skilled talent to support the sector’s growth.

5. Economic opportunities

With a diverse and growing economy, Ottawa is a stable business environment that’s well-placed for long-term success. It also provides plenty of opportunities for cross-sector collaboration, creating an exciting area for small businesses to thrive in.

The local government also provides resources for new, small, and growing businesses. From Business Improvement Area Grant Programs to the Business Assistance Program, there’s plenty of support on offer.

6. Global network

Ottawa has not only grown many startups that have gone on to achieve global success, but it’s also home to many international corporations that boost the local and national economy. Combined, these make for a robust global network that facilitates international collaboration.

Prominent global entities with a presence in Ottawa include IBM, Nokia, TD Bank, and Deloitte, which is considered one of the Big Four accounting firms.

The city’s proximity to the US border also facilitates trade and collaboration, with links to major regions like New York City and Washington.

7. Ottawa culture

With influences spanning First Nations, French, English, Scottish, and Irish roots, Ottawa has a diverse culture. The Ottawa River running around the city offers plenty of natural beauty to boost mental health and inspire a good work-life balance.

The city’s eclectic culture supports an excellent food scene. This makes it a great place for networking and entertaining clients or investors.

Top restaurants for client entertaining include Cocotte Bistro and Aiana. If the occasion calls for a little more finesse, there are also numerous wineries within day-trip distance.

How much are coworking memberships in Ottawa?

Ottawa offers lower costs of living and business than many other major cities in North America.

2024 figures suggest that the cost of living in Ottawa is 42% cheaper than in San Francisco and 86% lower than in New York City. By opting for coworking instead of traditional office space, you can reduce business overheads even more.

Day coworking spaces in Ottawa start from $29. This is lower than places like Edmonton and Toronto, which start from $39, and Montreal, which starts from $49. For coworking memberships in Ottawa, prices start from $149 per month.

Regus membership includes access to a range of different locations. This allows you to move around and work closer to various clients and industry clusters as your business evolves.

The best coworking spaces in Ottawa

Whether you’re looking for a dedicated desk in a bustling environment or a flexible workspace with conference rooms for client engagement, there’s an office in Ottawa to suit your needs.

As your business grows and your needs change, coworking spaces allow you to relocate and scale up or down with ease.

To help you find the right spot for your business requirements, let’s explore some of our top Ottawa coworking options.

208 Booth Street

Blending modern workspaces with industrial aesthetics, 208 Booth Street is a great environment for new businesses. Part of the landmark Zibi development on Chaudière Island, this office has a contemporary designer feel that will impress employees and clients alike.

With quiet booths and relaxed open spaces for networking and collaborating, this location has the best of both worlds. You can also rub elbows with like-minded people and enjoy barista-made coffee in-house for a productivity boost.

Downtown Ottawa’s many bars and eateries are also less than two kilometers away for excellent client entertainment and post-work relaxation.

Highlights include

• Break-out areas
• Meeting rooms
• Lounge area

Information about 208 Booth Street

• Location: 310 Miwate Private, Ottawa, ON, K1R 0E2
• Starting cost: From $149 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: Booth/Chaudière Bus Stop (a three-minute walk away)

116 Albert Street

In the heart of Ottawa’s financial district, 116 Albert Street is ideal for businesses in the finance or fintech sectors. There are also plenty of public sector and government organizations to add some versatility to the region.

This downtown area also has plenty of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a great spot for promoting a healthy work-life balance as well as client and investor entertainment. For a quick and healthy lunch, the popular Mad Radish is in the same building.

Highlights include

• On-site lunch restaurant
• Business lounge
• Secure underground parking

Information about 116 Albert Street

• Location: 116 Albert Street, Ottawa, ON, K1P 5G3
• Starting cost: From CAD 205 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: Albert/Metcalfe Bus Stop (a one-minute walk away) and Parliament West/Parlement Ouest Light Rail Station (a four-minute walk away)

66 Slater Street

If you’re looking for an office address in downtown Ottawa to really wow clients, 66 Slater Street offers a lot of value. Boasting views of Parliament Hill, this 23-storey high-rise is made to impress.

It’s also right next to Ottawa City Hall, making it a central and desirable destination for a wide range of industries.

With workspaces spanning five floors, there’s a style and environment to suit your varying needs. Network with other professionals in communal areas or retreat to quiet spaces for concentration.

Highlights include

• Break-out areas
• Meeting rooms
• Major transport links

Information about 66 Slater Street

• Location: 135 Laurier Avenue West, Ottawa, ON, K1P 5J2
• Starting cost: From CAD 279 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: Elgin/Slater Bus Stop (a three-minute walk away), Slater/Metcalfe Bus Stop (a four-minute walk away), and Parliament West/Parlement Ouest Light Rail Station (a nine-minute walk away)

116 Lisgar St

116 Lisgar St is another central location fantastic for a wide range of industries. Surrounded by businesses in public services, technology, healthcare, and tourism, there are plenty of opportunities to network and grow your business here.

This Ottawa coworking space offers a variety of options to suit all sorts of personalities and business types. Collaborate and brainstorm with like-minded people in open-plan areas, or make full use of the state-of-the-art videoconferencing facilities..

Lisgar St is also close to Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport for clients who need to travel from afar. For entertainment, the area has a range of fine dining restaurants and a diverse culture to enjoy.

Highlights include

• Break-out areas
• Meeting rooms
• City/town center location

Information about 116 Lisgar St

• Location: 116 Lisgar St, Ottawa, ON, K2P 0C2
• Starting cost: From CAD 245 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: Elgin/Nepean Bus Stop (a two-minute walk away) and Uottawa West /Ouest Light Rail Station (an 11-minute walk away)

343 Preston Street

In the heart of Ottawa’s ‘Little Italy’, 343 Preston Street is well-situated for businesses in the tech sector.

By day, you can mingle with a variety of tech firms and specialists. By night, you can entertain clients or relax with new collaborators at the excellent local restaurants and bars.

For afternoons when you need to clear your head or grab some fresh air, Dow’s Lake is also within walking distance.

Highlights include

• Break-out areas
• Business lounge
• Major transport links

Information about 343 Preston Street

• Location: 343 Preston Street, Ottawa, ON, K1S 1N4
• Starting cost: From CAD 309 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: Preston/Young E Bus Stop (a two-minute walk away), Booth/Orangeville Bus Stop (a four-minute walk away), and Carling Train Station (a 12-minute walk away)

Fairmont Chateau Laurier

Fairmont Chateau Laurier is a great option for those looking to impress clients with a coworking space situated in an iconic spot.

Resembling a castle on the outside and a modern office on the inside, it has plenty of character. It also offers state-of-the-art videoconferencing facilities, as well as an on-site coffee bar.

Surrounded by museums, art centers, and government buildings, there are many opportunities to network and engage in a bit of culture during downtime.

With Major’s Hill Park and the Ottawa River mere footsteps away, it’s also an excellent location for encouraging a healthy amount of natural admiration and work-life balance.

Highlights include

• Business lounge
• On-site lunch restaurant
• Vending machines

Information about Fairmont Chateau Laurier

• Location: 1 Rideau Street, Ottawa, ON, K1N 8S7
• Starting cost: From CAD 205 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: Rideau Light Rail Station (a three-minute walk away) and Ottawa ON Bus Stop (a four-minute walk away)

396 Cooper Street

Surrounded by federal departments, management consultancies, and lifestyle brands, 396 Cooper Street is a place that’s brimming with a range of industries.

Boasting a lower price point than other Ottawa coworking spaces, it’s an excellent option for new businesses looking to keep costs down as much as possible.

The Centertown area also offers plenty of restaurants and bars for networking or relaxing after work. Union Local 613, Prohibition Public House, and Arlo Wine & Restaurant are all within a short walk from the building.

Highlights include

• Break-out areas
• Meeting rooms
• Major transport links

Information about 396 Cooper Street

• Location: 396 Cooper St., Ottawa, ON, K2P 0G8
• Starting cost: From CAD 169 per month
• Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
• Nearby transport links: Bank/Somerset W Bus Stop (a one-minute walk away) and Lyon West/Ouest Light Rail Station (a 15-minute walk away)

Discover serviced offices in Ottawa with Regus

With a diverse set of industries, a thriving tech ecosystem, and lower business costs, Canada’s capital city is an excellent place to start a business. With Ottawa coworking spaces, you can keep your overheads down and get the flexibility you need to grow.

Explore our Ottawa office spaces to find the best option to suit your professional needs. Alternatively, for assistance finding the right workspace for your business, get in touch with our experts today.

At Regus, we can talk you through our many coworking options and membership packages so you can find the best solution to help you thrive.