A U.S.-based global cybersecurity firm driving the convergence of networking and security announced this week plans today to invest $30 million into Alberta’s technology sector.
Fortinet, whose cybersecurity portfolio comprises over 50 enterprise-grade products, serves more than half a million customers.
With support from Invest Alberta and Calgary Economic Development, as well as a grant from the Government of Alberta, Fortinet intends to expand into Calgary’s downtown, where the company plans to establish a cutting-edge cybersecurity tech hub and create new jobs in Alberta’s tech sector.
“As a global leader in cybersecurity, Fortinet is committed to protecting and empowering communities right here in Alberta, fostering innovation and excellence,” stated Joyce Chow, who serves as Vice President of Talent at Fortinet.
The Government of Alberta’s Innovation and Growth Fund will contribute over $3 million towards Fortinet’s expansion, which includes a data centre, cybersecurity training facility, and centre of excellence.
“Our expansion in Calgary directly contributes to creating valuable employment opportunities and advancing cybersecurity capabilities in the region,” Chow said.
The Alberta-based training facility marks a pivotal step in addressing the global cybersecurity skills shortage.
For its part, Canada is clinging to a nationwide cybersecurity dearth, with one in six roles sitting unfilled—to the tune of 25,000 total empty positions.
The global cybersecurity industry is expected to grow to US$270 billion in 2026—up from $170B in 2020—according to data from CBRE’s “Cybersecurity: Global Talent Spotlight,” and this will require a “corresponding increase in hiring that will be difficult to achieve in this already hyper-competitive talent market.”
Alberta possesses an emerging cybersecurity market is quietly but steadily rising up, with CBRE’s report identifying the region of Calgary as an Emerging Market to Watch—the only Canadian city to make the list.
Growing more than 40% annually, Calgary’s cybersecurity workforce now sits well north of 4,000, driven largely by the energy sector, which CBRE calls a “major employer” of cyber talent in the region.
Already a partner with the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, the University of Alberta, and the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, Fortinet says it will work closely with Alberta’s post-secondary institutions to continue efforts to address the Canadian talent gap.
“Our vision extends beyond providing industry-leading security products and services,” said Chow. “We aim to continuously innovate and cultivate cybersecurity talent through comprehensive training and development programs.”
With a current annual 20 per cent employee growth rate in Alberta, Fortinet recognizes Calgary as an ideal location to continue growth and meet the increasing demand for cybersecurity education.
“Fortinet’s expansion in Calgary is evidence that global companies have the ideal environment here to grow and scale,” said Brad Parry, CEO of Calgary Economic Development. “With the city’s rapidly growing tech talent workforce, and businesses embracing digital transformation, Fortinet’s investment continues the momentum we’re seeing across sectors in Calgary.”
Fortinet has a goal of more than 100 local staff by the end of 2025.
“There has never been a better time to invest in tech in Alberta,” stated Nate Glubish, Minister of Technology and Innovation, “and this latest investment shows that Alberta is a major player in the tech industry.”
Since 2020, Invest Alberta has supported the commitment of nearly $20 billion in investment that created more than 27,000 new jobs for Albertans.
“Invest Alberta welcomes Fortinet to join the region’s thriving tech scene,” Rick Christiaanse, chief executive of Invest Alberta, stated. “Fortinet’s $30 million investment and focus on digital inclusion, green initiatives, and talent development through partnerships with academic institutions make the company the perfect fit for Alberta’s innovation community.”
