We Are Signal49 Research
Effective January 26, 2026, we’ve changed our operating name to Signal49 Research.
For nearly 50 years we have operated in Canada as a national research and economics powerhouse. We convene leaders, drive evidence-based ideas, and lead research innovation. Proudly Canadian, we draw our purpose from serving our country, strengthening our communities, and helping shape a more prosperous future for all.
Our former name no longer captured the purpose of our work. Our new name does. We look forward to advancing our purpose with even greater clarity, now as Signal49 Research.
Follow us on this journey by staying connected:
Effective January 26, 2026, Signal49 Research discontinued use of “The Conference Board of Canada” name and trademark, which had been used by Signal49 Research under license from the Conference Board, Inc. The Conference Board, Inc. and/or its licensees have the exclusive right to use “THE CONFERENCE BOARD” marks in Canada.
How We Got Here
Arriving at this name was a thoughtful and collaborative process. We partnered with a leading branding agency and engaged stakeholders across government, business, academia, and non-profits, as well as our staff, and Board of Directors. After exploring various creative directions, and many conversations about the future we’re building, Signal49 Research was selected as the unanimous choice.
The Meaning Behind Our Name
Signal represents clarity and insight, cutting through noise to illuminate what matters.
49 reflects the 49th parallel, symbolizing our deeply Canadian perspective.
It is also inspired by Signal Hill in Newfoundland and Labrador, where the first transatlantic wireless message was received across the ocean in December 1901, putting Canada on the global map and reshaping how the world connects. This landmark achievement in global communications shattered the belief that radio waves could only travel in straight lines. It proved that signals could curve with the Earth, making long-distance radio possible and demonstrating, for the first time, that information could move through space without physical wires or cables.
It was a moment when the impossible became reality. A Canadian breakthrough that laid the foundation for today’s global telecommunications network, enabling instant connectivity across continents.
That spirit of innovation and connection continues to drive everything we do.
Signal49 Research embodies clarity, trust, and forward momentum.
It represents a guiding signal in times of uncertainty; a dependable beacon that leaders can rely on to navigate complexity.
Signal49 Research is modern and distinctive yet firmly rooted in Canadian identity.
It marks the beginning of a bold and more dynamic future.
What You Can Count On
While our name has changed, our core purpose, our values, and our people have not. Our commitment to Canada has never been stronger and we will continue to deliver the bold insights that have guided leaders for generations. You can continue to count on us for:
Evidence-Based Research and Data
We produce over 500 outputs every year. Our insights and analyses will remain as rigorous as ever.
Unwavering Independence
We continue to serve the needs of Canada’s leaders and communities, free from personal or political interests or ideology.
Deep Expertise
Our world-class subject-matter teams provide actionable insights into the most critical challenges facing our country.
Innovation
We’re continuously innovating how we conduct our research and how we deliver it, making our work more accessible and impactful for more Canadians.
Seamless Continuity
Your access to our resources and content will be unchanged.
Our Legacy
For decades, our work has informed some of the most important decisions facing Canada, from the future of work to housing, to healthcare, to our economy, Indigenous and northern communities and the environment.
Read a detailed timeline of our history and impact over the decades.
Building the Next Era of Impact
Our name change is just one part of our exciting evolution. We’re investing in new capabilities, expanding our impact, and building for the future.
Recent milestones on our journey:
Vicinity Jobs joins Signal49 Research
In May 2025, we acquired Vicinity Jobs, Canada’s leading labour market analytics firm. The acquisition strengthens our ability to deliver real-time, localized labour market data, giving policymakers, educators, and businesses sharper tools and deeper insights to plan for and respond to today’s labour market.
Centre for Canadian Growth and Prosperity
We launched The Centre for Canadian Growth and Prosperity (CCGP) in response to the serious long-term challenges our country is facing. Declining productivity, rising living costs, and growing economic uncertainty means that we are falling behind globally. Without bold action, we’re at risk of leaving future generations worse off.
CCGP brings together the best ideas from across Canada by convening leaders from business, government, academia, Indigenous communities, and civil society through in-person and virtual events.
Collaborating with other stakeholders in the idea ecosystem allows us to not only amplify our own insights but also spotlight the most innovative thinking from others. By curating and sharing diverse perspectives, we can ensure we are a source of thought leadership—where the best ideas converge and inspire action.
Monitoring and measuring progress is essential to driving real change. By developing and maintaining public scorecards across key sectors, the Centre will create transparency, accountability, and momentum for action.
