Uber president and chief operating officer Andrew Macdonald called on the federal government to accelerate its policy and program work during the 2026 Toronto Tech Week Homecoming conference in Toronto on Wednesday. Speaking to a crowd of tech leaders and entrepreneurs, Macdonald emphasized the need for quicker regulatory frameworks to support innovation and economic growth in Canada.
Macdonald highlighted that Canada has the potential to become a global leader in technology and transportation, but only if the government streamlines its processes. He pointed to the rapid evolution of the gig economy and autonomous vehicles as areas where policy must keep pace with industry advancements.
“We need a partnership that moves at the speed of innovation,” Macdonald said. “The federal government has made progress, but we must do more to create an environment where businesses can thrive and Canadians can benefit from new technologies.”
The remarks come amid ongoing discussions about the regulation of ride-sharing services and the future of work in Canada. Uber has been advocating for consistent national standards across provinces to replace the current patchwork of local regulations.
Macdonald also praised Canada’s talent pool and immigration policies but urged for faster visa processing and support for skilled workers. He noted that many tech companies are facing labor shortages and that streamlined policies could help attract top global talent.
The conference, which runs throughout the week, features sessions on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and clean technology. Macdonald’s speech was one of the keynotes, drawing attention from policymakers and industry stakeholders alike.
In response, a spokesperson for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada said the government is committed to working with industry leaders to modernize regulations and support innovation. The spokesperson noted recent investments in digital infrastructure and skills training as steps in the right direction.
Macdonald concluded his address by calling for a collaborative approach, stating that “the future of Canada’s tech sector depends on bold action today.”
