Responding to the new realities of today’s economy, workforce and digital marketplace are the hot topics at the 14th annual Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit on Friday, November 18 at the North Grenville Municipal Centre.
The Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, Ontario’s Minister of Finance, will deliver the first keynote address on the progress of the government’s “Plan to Build” as it also navigates emerging economic challenges.
Pierre Cléroux, Vice President, Research and Chief Economist at BDC, is the second keynote providing an overview of the economic situation here and abroad, from inflation to labour shortages, supply chain issues and the rise of interest rates.
“Businesses confronted the pandemic head on, and for many they have adjusted and created new opportunities that have resulted in growth,” said Ann Weir, Manager of the Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office, who will be sharing the results of the 2022 Fall Business Survey.
The event, being held for in person for the first time since 2019, is hosted by the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Office in partnership with Michael Barrett, M.P., the Hon. Steve Clark, M.P.P., the Eastern Workforce Innovation Board and the 1000 Islands, Grenville and Valley Hartland Community Futures Development Corporations.
The Bill Thake Memorial Economic Development Leadership Award will be presented at the Summit. Nominees include JoAnne Sytsma, Township of Athens, Derek Ouellet, Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands, Dermid O’Farrell, Municipality of North Grenville, and Susan Warren, Township of Rideau Lakes. The winner will be announced by Warden Roger Haley, who will be joined by Bill’s widow, Marlene Thake.
A highlight will be a session on “Going Digital,” as the pandemic has brought to light the importance of having your business online, and the successes of the Digital Main Street program for small businesses. There will be a panel discussion on “Welcoming a Diversified Workforce” and how companies leverage programs to build and fulfill their staffing needs.
Additional highlights include special presentations by:
- Clayton Jones, President and CEO of Johnstown’s CREWS – Canadian Rail Equipment Works and Services Inc.
- Bonnie Ruddock, Executive Director of Region 9 Regional Tourism Organization
- Ann Weir, Manager of the Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office
Date: Friday, November 18, 2022
Time: 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Registration: $50. Advance payment is required. https://invest.leedsgrenville.com/summit2022
Deadline to Register: Monday, November 14 at 12 noon.
