There is quite a bit of noise in media about the economic benefits of investing in foreign entrepreneurs. Unfortunately, it strikes me that these guys chose the quick win and we will now see those economics benefits move south of the Canadian border.
A team that attracts attention will impress the scouts (either acquirers or investors) who will sign them up to play for the "big leagues" in the Bay Area.
This isn't malicious, but so many accelerators are trying to build a community, which is really hard to do when so many potential leaders of that community decide to 301.
As for the more general discussion about the economic benefits of investing in foreign entrepreneurs, I'm not sure you're looking at it quite the right way. I would expand on this idea some more but I'm not sure what you mean by "noise in the media," who exactly is investing, (private entities or the Government?) your definition "quick win," and what's your opinion on this matter.
The economic situation for entrepreneurs in Canada is abysmal. The smart people leave because they know what they're up against. Every corner of the Canadian economy is controlled by either a monopoly, or a cartel supported by the government. The entire Canadian economy is essentially a syndicate consisting of banks and big businesses, and it's all wrapped up in rah-rah Go Canada! Go! patriotism.
Canada does not make it easy, to say the least, to come there and build a company and, eventually, hire canadians. (Not that the USA is much better either).
If you want more immigrants to come and create jobs, allow people to immigrate.
It's easier for me as an Australian to get a job in the US.