4 Fun Facts About the Waterloo Impact

The University of Waterloo isn’t just a place to study—it’s a global engine for ideas, talent, and innovation. Here are four fun facts from the Waterloo Impact Report that show just how far Waterloo’s influence reaches:

1. Canada’s #1 University for Unicorn Founders

According to the 2025 Unicorn Report, Waterloo ranks #1 in Canada for producing founders of billion‑dollar startups, reflecting its deeply rooted culture of entrepreneurship and innovation.

2. Hiring a Waterloo Co‑op Student Pays Off—Big Time

Employers see impressive results from Waterloo talent: for every $1 spent hiring a Waterloo co‑op student, employers generate more than $2.20 in economic output, benefiting organizations and communities alike.

3. Alumni Have Founded Over 67,000 Companies Worldwide

Waterloo graduates have launched more than 67,000 for‑profit and nonprofit organizations, employing 1.7 million people globally and generating close to $400 billion in annual revenue.

4. Waterloo Powers Nearly $7 Billion of Ontario’s GDP

Through its co‑op program, alumni activity, and research enterprise, the University of Waterloo contributes nearly $7 billion annually to Ontario’s GDP, making it one of the province’s most significant economic contributors.

Want the Full Story?

These fun facts are just a snapshot of Waterloo’s far‑reaching influence. From economic impact and entrepreneurship to research and experiential learning, the full Waterloo Impact Report dives deeper into how the University of Waterloo is turning ideas into global change.

Click here to read the full report!