Business community to rally in support of economic development
TRURO – The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce, supported by a group of business and community leaders, will be hosting an economic rally celebrating successes while looking to the future.
The Partnership for Economic Prosperity (PEP) rally will be held in Truro on June 17, at the Marigold Cultural Centre, beginning at 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., to build business and community support for economic development, both financially and in spirit.
An engaged group of independent speakers, with various business, economic development and community backgrounds is being brought together to rally the business community in an effort to initiate and fund a sustainable plan for future economic growth.
“We are building community spirit and also, we want to show the value of economic development and what it means to the community,” said Chamber president Andrew Lake.
The morning session will feature a panel discussion including several business people from diverse local sectors sharing their views on the opportunities in the area and how to achieve them, as well as five keynote speakers.
Amanda Langille and Tanya Colburne of Langille and Colburne – More Than Events, new entrepreneurs with vision for future growth in Colchester, will join Basil L. Stewart, former Mayor of Summerside, PEI, and former President of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities; Keith MacDonald, President and CEO of the Cape Breton Partnership and Tom Stanfield, President and Chairman of Stanfield’s Limited.
“We want to ensure Colchester remains a destination,” said the President. “With the dissolution of towns around the province, we are aware of the challenges other communities are facing.
“Developing a community that is welcoming and open for business will make us a valuable region.”
A group of business and community leaders have been in discussions with local municipalities and provincial officials about the future of economic development for this region. Several models have been explored to form a body with a sharp focus to drive economic development forward, complementing supports and services already in place in this region.
Whichever model is selected for future development, the business community will have a role to play ensuring it is sustainably funded. This rally will provide an opportunity for local businesses to pledge their support for economic development.
“Everybody has a role to play in economic development,” said Lake. “This event is for the business community to build energy and support for its role.”
For more information contact the Chamber office, 902-895-6328 or email [email protected].
