<2> The Rise of Montreal as a Travel Tech Hub
<3> A City’s Aviation DNA
Montreal’s journey to becoming the world’s second most important travel tech hub began with its rich aviation history. The city has been home to several major airlines, including Air Canada, which was founded in 1937. This aviation DNA has created a unique ecosystem that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship in the travel industry.
<3> Patient Capital and a Single Expedia Office
The accidental creation of a $15 billion infrastructure layer in Montreal can be attributed to the presence of a single Expedia office in the city. In the early 2000s, Expedia set up a small office in Montreal to take advantage of the city’s lower operating costs. However, this office quickly became a hub for innovation, attracting talent from across the globe.
<3> The Birth of a Travel Tech Ecosystem
The combination of Montreal’s aviation DNA, patient capital, and the presence of Expedia’s office created a unique ecosystem that allowed travel tech startups to flourish. The city’s low operating costs, highly skilled workforce, and access to capital made it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs looking to disrupt the travel industry.
<3> Key Players in the Montreal Travel Tech Ecosystem