On January 15, 2013, Mayor Karen Farbridge and Wellington County’s Warden, Chris White, called together 100+ business representatives from within the region for an inaugural Guelph-Wellington Economic Summit.
There was great cross-representation from large industry, small business, not for profit, academic and government sectors. The purpose of the summit was to speak openly and frankly about the needs of business and how Guelph and the County of Wellington will continue to remain strong partners and move our region forward as we face Ontario’s changing economic landscape.
The two strategic documents guiding the day’s discussion was the City of Guelph’s Prosperity 2020 – Strategic Directions for Economic Development and Tourism adopted by Council in 2010 and the new Wellington County Economic Development Strategic Plan. Both documents set high expectations for the region and require continuous exploration of opportunities and collaboration between government and private industry in order for both areas to successfully maintain and achieve their identified economic development objectives.
After much valuable discussion, brainstorming and sector specific breakout sessions, five high priority focus areas emerged for the County and City.
- Stronger economic development collaboration between the County and City
- branding/marketing,
- workforce development and youth career planning and training,
- enhanced transportation access and
- start-up business assistance.
Special thank you to guest Trevor McPherson, Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Ontario Chamber of Commerce who familiarized attendees with Emerging Stronger: A Transformative Agenda for Ontario, helping to align discussion and proposed activities with the larger vision for Ontario.
More information on the Economic Summit
For more information
Peter Cartwright
General Manager
Economic Development
Finance and Enterprise Services
519-822-1260 extension 2820
peter.cartwright@guelph.ca