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Turn Investment-Ready Lands into Tourism Opportunities
LAST CHANCE TO APPLY! DEADLINE IS THIS FRIDAY!!
Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) and the Ministry of Tourism Culture and Gaming (MTCG) are partnering to host their annual EDCO Invest Table: Tourism Edition (previously named Tourism Investment Dragons) on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. This event offers municipalities the opportunity to get to pitch their tourism ready sites to interested investors over a quick 15-minute meeting rotation.
Apply to be one of the municipalities selected to participate. Complete the online application form to outline up to two tourism-ready investment sites along with any supportive initiatives. Applications will be evaluated based on the strength and clarity of their tourism opportunity and its potential impact to the local and regional economies. Selected municipalities will be contacted in early September to confirm participation.
Complete the online application form to outline up to two tourism-ready investment sites along with any supportive initiatives.
Application deadline is Friday, July 31st, 2026.
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Introducing EDCO's Strategic Plan 2026–2029
We're excited to announce the launch of EDCO's Strategic Plan 2026–2029, a new roadmap that will guide our organization over the next four years as we continue to support economic development professionals and communities across Ontario.
Built around four strategic priorities, Advocacy & Policy Influence, Membership Growth & Value Proposition, Strategic Growth & Partnerships, and Organizational Capacity & Governance, the plan reflects EDCO's commitment to delivering value for members, strengthening our impact, and advancing the economic development profession.
We invite you to explore the new Strategic Plan webpage, where you can:
- Read a message from Executive Director Stephanie Crilly
- Learn more about our strategic priorities
- Watch the Launch Video
- Read our FAQs
- Download the full Strategic Plan
Together, we're Empowering Professionals. Strengthening Communities. Shaping Ontario's Future.
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Register now before it sells out!!
Join EDCO’s 2026 Wellington County Regional Event
September 9–10 | Elora, Ontario
Be part of an engaging two-day experience focused on practical strategies, rural innovation, and real-world economic development insights—and earn 3 certification points.
Featured Sessions:
- Main Street Reality: What Drives Business Growth
- BR+E Strategies for Stronger Communities
- Connecting Businesses & Global Talent
- Supporting the Future of Agriculture
-
Toolkits for Rural Resiliency [edco.on.ca]
Pre-Event Workshops and Events (Sept 9 – Limited Space)
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2027 & 2028 Board of Directors Nominations
Join the EDCO Board of Directors: Nominations for the 2027 & 2028 term are NOW OPEN! Submit your nomination be September 15th, 2026. This election will fill five vacancies created on the Board of Directors for a two-year term.
EDCO's election takes place to fill vacancies created on the Board of Directors for a two-year term.
Submit Nomination Now!
Meet the Candidates Webinar
Join us for our 'Meet the Candidates Webinar' on Tuesday, October 6th, 2026. Meet each of the EDCO Board Nominees, learn about them and hear their answers to the questions asked by our members! Get all the information before voting starts on October 15th!
Register for Meet The Candidates Webinar!
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Join EDCO’s 2026 Clearview Regional Event
October 7–8 | Clearview Township, Ontario
Experience a full day of practical insights, peer learning, and hands-on experiences focused on rural economic development—while earning 3 certification points.
Featured Sessions:
- Idea Exchange: Interactive peer-to-peer learning and collaboration
- Planning for Growth: A rural municipality’s perspective on economic development
- Sustainable Resource Extraction: Balancing environment & economy
- Emerging Sectors: Supporting a growing community
- Cleared for Takeoff: Leveraging private airports as economic drivers
- Climate Resilience: Reframing risk for economic development
Plus, take part in a unique Walker Duntroon Quarry Tour, including a rare opportunity to witness a live blast.
Pre-Event Workshops (Oct 7 – Limited Space)
*Separate registration required for these workshops.
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EDCO & Environics Analytics: Community Profile Report Offer Now Available
EDCO is excited to announce a renewed partnership with Environics Analytics to bring Ontario’s smaller municipalities an exclusive opportunity to access high‑quality, privacy‑compliant community data at a fraction of the usual cost. Building on the success of the 2022–23 program, the Community Profile Report is now available to communities under 100,000 residents—providing a powerful evidence base to support planning, investment attraction, reporting, and strategic decision‑making.
This comprehensive 37‑page report delivers current demographic projections, PRIZM lifestyle segmentation, Social Values insights, media and digital habits, sports and leisure patterns, household and food expenditure trends, and a wealth profile—giving municipal leaders a clear, actionable picture of who lives in their community and what drives their decisions.
Exclusive Pricing for EDCO Members!
Learn more by joining an Information Webinar. Get an overview of the report, see examples of insights in action, and learn how to sign up. Deadline to sign up is September 30th!
Register for an upcoming Webinars:
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EDCO is pleased to introduce Investing in Our Future: Why Economic Development Matters
This is an excellent opportunity designed specifically for elected officials, senior municipal leaders, and decision makers across Ontario.
Economic development is one of the most influential tools municipalities have to shape long‑term prosperity—yet it is often misunderstood or narrowly defined. This session provides a clear, accessible overview of what economic development truly is, what it is not, and how strategic decision‑making at the council and leadership level directly impacts a community’s ability to grow, compete, and thrive.
Participants will gain a stronger understanding of:
- The role economic development plays in municipal success
- How local decisions influence business attraction, retention, and community vibrancy
- Why economic development is a shared responsibility across departments and leadership tables
Five sessions will be offered across Ontario in 2026, making it easy for elected officials and municipal leaders to participate.
Registration is now open for all of our 2026 sessions — we encourage councils and senior leadership teams to reserve their spots early.
Elora - September 9
Clearview - October 7
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Big News for Ontario’s Economic Development Professionals!
ResearchFDI and the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) have teamed up to bring you an exclusive opportunity to elevate your career with special discounted access to the ResearchFDI Academy!
What’s in it for you?
✅ Cutting-edge, self-paced training in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
✅ Expert-led modules on global investment strategies, stakeholder engagement, lead generation, and investor aftercare
✅ Earn the prestigious FDIP (Foreign Direct Investment Professional) certification
✅ Exclusive Ontario module developed with Invest Ontario for regional investment expertise
✅ Customizable learning options for your organization
This is your chance to sharpen your investment attraction skills, enhance your credentials, and stand out in the competitive economic development landscape. EDCO members get exclusive pricing—don’t miss out!
We were proud to celebrate the Ontario FDIP graduates recognized at the 2026 EDCO Conference for their commitment to excellence in investment attraction, and we look forward to recognizing future graduates at next year’s conference as this community of certified professionals continues to grow across Ontario. This partnership further demonstrates EDCO’s commitment to equipping its members with top-tier resources, exclusive pricing, and access to an industry-leading platform designed to meet the evolving challenges of modern investment attraction.
To take advantage of this exclusive offer, EDCO members must be current members and can use the code #EDCO2025 for special pricing on the ResearchFDI Academy platform when signing up here.
CanExport offers funding for FDI training—learn more about the CanExport Community Investments Program here.
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Discover Global Opportunities with ResearchFDI’s Aerospace, Defence & Security Events Guide
Developed through the extensive research and expertise of ResearchFDI in partnership with EDCO, this comprehensive guide is an essential resource for Ontario’s economic development professionals. It highlights 18 key international trade shows across six continents, offering unparalleled insight into where global aerospace, defence, and security investment conversations are happening.
This guide is designed to help EDCO members strategically identify high-impact events, connect with decision-makers, and position their communities as prime destinations for foreign direct investment. Each listing provides practical details and strategic context, making it easy to prioritize opportunities and maximize engagement.
This tool empowers members to take a focused, informed approach to global outreach—turning trade show participation into meaningful partnerships, investment attraction, and long-term economic growth.
View Aerospace, Defence & Security Events Guide PDF
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October 13-16, 2026: Ontario Government Freight Mobility Trade Mission to TransLogistica Kazakhstan
The Ontario Government is organizing a Freight Mobility Trade Mission to TransLogistica Kazakhstan in the city of Astana. Backed by significant investments in transportation infrastructure and supply chain modernization, Kazakhstan is seeking solutions that increase operational efficiency, visibility, and automation. It is rapidly emerging as a strategic gateway between Europe and Asia, located at the intersection of major trade routes linking China, Central Asia, the Caucasus, Türkiye, the Middle East, and Europe. Transit volumes in Kazakhstan reached approximately 36.9 million tonnes in 2025. Ontario mission participants will exhibit in the Ontario pavilion at the 29th edition of the trade show, participate in B2B meetings with potential customers, distributors and partners, attend the associated conference, and connect with key stakeholders in the transportation, infrastructure, and supply chain sectors in Kazakhstan/Central Asia. Export-ready companies may Apply Here by September 2, 2026, to be considered.
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EMC Canada Update
Funding & Support Opportunities
- Welding Pre-Apprenticeship Wage Subsidy: Employers in Peel, Halton, Milton and the GTA can receive $250/week (up to $2,000) for hiring youth who have completed welding pre-apprenticeship training for an 8-week placement. Contact EMC for details.
- AMIC Program: Funding available for SME manufacturers investing in capital equipment, technology adoption, and skills development. Applications open until November 5, 2026.
- Industrial AI Readiness Program: Eligible manufacturers can receive up to $15,000 to support AI adoption projects that improve productivity, safety, and environmental performance.
- MLITSD Safety Inspection Blitzes: Ontario inspections are focusing on noise hazards and health & safety compliance. EMC can provide support with assessments and training.
Training Opportunities
- Attract & Retain New Employees (Fully Funded) – Starts September 9, 2026; focused on workplace culture, leadership, and employee retention.
- Building Skills for Success: Supervisors – Starts September 22, 2026; develops coaching, mentorship, communication, and leadership skills.
Upcoming Events
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Help Shape the Future of Economic Development in Canada
EDCO is proud to support the International Economic Development Council's (IEDC) 2026 State of the Field Survey—one of the profession's most important research initiatives.
This annual survey provides valuable insights into emerging trends, practitioner perspectives, workforce challenges, and the issues shaping economic development today. The findings help inform the profession and create meaningful benchmarking opportunities for economic development organizations across North America.
For 2026, IEDC is expanding its research to include province-level insights and benchmarking. To achieve statistically reliable results, IEDC is seeking at least 50 completed responses from economic development professionals in Ontario.
We encourage all EDCO members to take a few minutes to complete the survey and ensure Ontario's economic development community is well represented. Provincial associations that meet the 50-response threshold will receive access to the 2026 State of the Field Dashboard and benchmarking insights, a resource typically available exclusively to IEDC members.
Survey Period: July 1–30, 2026
Your participation will help strengthen the profession's most comprehensive source of research, data, and industry insight.
Complete the survey here
For questions about the survey, please contact Dr. Yesi Pena, Senior Director of Research at IEDC, at ypena@iedc.org.
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Request for Proposals: Economic Development Strategic Action Plan
The City of Temiskaming Shores is seeking proposals from qualified consultants to develop an Economic Development Strategic Action Plan. This initiative will help guide the community’s economic growth and development priorities for the years ahead.
View the full RFP and submission details here
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Build Business Skills for Success with BuildUP On-Demand
The Innovation Cluster's BuildUP On-Demand program is a flexible, self-paced online training program designed specifically for trades professionals looking to start, manage, or grow a successful business. Developed for busy schedules, the program helps participants build practical skills in business planning, pricing, financial management, customer service, sales, and business growth.
Whether you're an apprentice, journeyperson, skilled trades worker, or current business owner, BuildUP On-Demand provides accessible business education that can be applied directly to your work.
🔗 Program information: innovationcluster.ca/buildup
💲 Exclusive offer for EDCO Members! Use discount code found in Members Only Portal to receive 15% off registration.
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Toronto Business Development Centre is one of the city’s oldest accelerators. We run a program built to help high-potential global founders enter and grow within the North American market. Through Horizon, we give founders the strategy, the connections, and the rooms they need to move from early traction to real revenue.
This September (21st to 25th), our next cohort of deep tech startups begins, and from now through the fall we will be working closely with founders building across a range of sectors.
For the EDCO community, the value lies in what this access makes possible. When our founders gather in Toronto for our in-person Sprint Week, we open the doors to the wider ecosystem. Members gain a clear view of emerging technology, direct exposure to founders who are actively entering the market, and an early read on where innovation is heading before it reaches the mainstream.
In short, we bring innovation to you. Whether your interest is in sourcing new solutions for local priorities, connecting founders with your community, or simply staying close to what is next, there is genuine value in being part of these conversations. There is no pitch and no pressure, only access to a curated pool of innovation and the people driving it.
We will continue to share updates as the cohort takes shape. If this is the kind of momentum you would like your community connected to, we would welcome the chance to bring you in.
🔗 Explore Horizon
✉️ Connect with us: jaghan@tbdc.com
💼 Follow along
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As a municipal leader in the Clean Energy Frontier, you’ll find the 2026 Clean Energy Frontier Conference a great opportunity to connect with individuals from across the nuclear industry, government, academia and more.
Taking place October 8th and 9th at the Unifor Education Centre in Port Elgin, this year’s conference theme is It starts here: reflecting on how clean energy leadership begins in the Clean Energy Frontier region but delivers real economic benefits to businesses and communities across Ontario and beyond.
A few highlights specific to municipal and economic development professionals like you include:
· Government ticket rate for the two-day conference and October 8th evening reception.
· Earn 3 EDAC points for attending the full conference.
· Hands-on workshops with experts on investment attraction readiness, economic resiliency, and advocacy best practices.
Other agenda highlights include a presentation from Bruce Power President & CEO Eric Chassard, a keynote address on Unleashing the power of collective intelligence from science journalist Dan Riskin, and sessions on project execution, operational excellence and national collaboration.
For the full agenda and registration links, visit our website: nii.ca/clean-energy-frontier-conference-agenda.
| | Sporting Event Bid Information | | |
SPECIAL OLYMPICS CANADA
is now accepting bids for the following event:
EVENT:
- Special Olympics Canada Summer Games 2030
LETTER OF INTENT DEADLINE: September 15, 2026
BID DEADLINE: December 31, 2026
CONTACT: Kirsten Bobbie, Director, Sport & Competitions
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WRESTLING CANADA LUTTE
is now requesting bids for the following event:
EVENT:
- 2028 Pan American Olympic Qualifier
BID DEADLINE: July 31, 2026
CONTACT: info@wrestling.ca
| | Current Funding Opportunities | |
Funding Available to Hire Post-Secondary Students This Summer
The Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) is now accepting applications for its Growing Opportunities Student Work Placement Program for the Summer 2026 term.
This program helps agriculture and agri-food employers create meaningful, paid work placements for post-secondary students while offsetting hiring costs through a wage subsidy.
Program Highlights:
- ✅ 50% wage subsidy of student wages, up to $5,000 per placement
- ✅ Placements must align with the student's academic program
- ✅ No limit on the number of applications an employer can submit
If your business is planning to hire a student this summer, this is an excellent opportunity to invest in future talent while reducing employment costs.
Learn More & Apply:
- Apply Now: https://cahrc-ccrha.poweredbymagnet.ca/sme
- Program Information: https://cahrc-ccrha.ca/programs/agri-talent#section-growing-opportunities
- Eligibility Criteria: https://cahrc-ccrha.ca/programs/agri-talent#subsection-eligibility-criteria
Looking Ahead: Applications for the Fall 2026 term will open on July 31.
For assistance with your application, contact:
- Megan Lockhart: mlockhart@cahrc-ccrha.ca
- Suzanne Peck: speck@cahrc-ccrha.ca
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Building a strong Canada starts with building strong communities. The Build Communities Strong Fund (BCSF) is the Government of Canada’s plan to invest in infrastructure that supports economic prosperity, housing, education, health, transit, climate adaptation and strong, vibrant communities. As part of this national fund, the Direct Delivery stream is supporting regionally significant projects, climate adaptation and community infrastructure across Canada. Within this stream, Canada’s regional development agencies are delivering $1 billion over four years through the Local Impact Stream to support high-impact community infrastructure projects that strengthen communities and advance regional economic development.
Local Impact Stream : Application Guide:
https://feddev-ontario.canada.ca/en/funding-southern-ontario/build-communities-strong-fund-local-impact-stream-southern-ontario-application-guide
Applications are being accepted for the summer intake launched on June 11, 2026.
Application eligibility is based on project start dates:
- Projects starting between April 30, 2026, and March 31, 2027
- Projects must have a start date within this period
- Projects must be completed within two (2) years of their start date
- Application deadline: July 9, 2026, at 4:59 pm Eastern Time
- Projects starting April 1, 2027, or later
- Projects must have a start date on or after April 1, 2027
- Projects must be completed within two (2) years of their start date
- Application deadline: August 6, 2026, at 4:59 pm Eastern Time
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Ontario Together Trade Fund Program
The Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF) provides financial support to businesses looking to make near-term investments so they can serve more interprovincial customers, develop new markets and re-shore critical supply chains in the face of U.S. tariffs. With a focus on small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the program will help businesses, build local capacity, enhance trade resiliency, and make the necessary investments to successfully expand into new markets.
Projects must address the impacts of U.S. trade disruptions and align with Ontario’s key economic priorities.
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Projects must be completed within 24 months of the start date.
Learn More
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The Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund (OMPF) is the Province's main general assistance grant to municipalities, providing a total of $600 million in unconditional funding to 388 municipalities through the 2026 OMPF program.
The program primarily supports small, northern and rural municipalities across the province. Its objectives are to:
- recognize the challenges of small, northern and rural municipalities, while targeting funding to those with more challenging fiscal circumstances
- support areas with limited property assessment
- assist municipalities that are adjusting to year-over-year funding changes.
Learn More Here
For additional information, or for other general inquiries about the OMPF program, email your query and contact information to: info.ompf@ontario.ca.
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Ontario and Canada Invest More Than $7.2 Million to Protect Workers in the North
SAULT STE. MARIE — The Ontario government is partnering with the Government of Canada to invest more than $7.2 million through the Canada-Ontario Workforce Tariff Response to help protect workers in the North, strengthen critical industries and build a more competitive and resilient economy in the face of global economic uncertainty. This investment will help more than 500 workers across northern Ontario upgrade their skills, transition into in-demand careers and ensure local employers have the skilled workforce they need to grow and succeed.
Learn more
| | Check out the EDCO Career Page | | |
Post your job with EDCO!
Economic Development Officer - Whitefish River First Nation
Administrative Assistant/Bookkeeper - Whitefish River First Nation
Projects Engagement Coordinator - Whitefish River First Nation
Senior Economic Development Officer - Town of Aurora
Economic Development Officer - BR&E - Discover Burlington
Visit our website for more information!
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August 5 - 6, 2026 - Entrepreneurial & Small Business Development
Strategies
August 12 - 13, 2026 - Economic Development Marketing & Attraction
August 16 - 19, 2026 - AMO 2026
August 19 - 20, 2026 - Workforce Development Strategies
August 25 - 26, 2026 - Technology-Led Economic Development
August 27, 2026 - How to Finance Your Next Stage of Growth
September 1 - 2, 2026 - Business Retention & Expansion
September 8 - 9, 2026 - Economic Development Credit Analysis
September 9, 2026 - EDCO Economic Development for Elected Officials Elora
September 9 - 10, 2026 - EDCO Regional Event - Wellington County
September 9 - 11, 2026 - Ontario East Municipal Conference (OEMC)
September 14 - 17, 2026 - OFNEDA First Nations Economic Advancement Conference
September 14 - 17, 2026 - EDAC Annual Conference
September 15 - 17, 2026 - Entrepreneurship-Led Economic Development
September 29 - 30, 2026 - Managing Economic Development Organizations
October 7 - 8, 2026 - Neighbourhood Development Strategies
October 7, 2026 - EDCO Economic Development for Elected Officials Clearview
October 8, 2026 - EDCO Regional Event - Clearview Township
October 8, 2026 - Hacked: What Every Founder Needs to Know Before It's Too Late
October 14 - 15, 2026 - Real Estate Development & Reuse
October 25 - 28, 2026 - IEDC Annual Conference New Orleans
November 4 - 5, 2026 - Economic Development Strategic Planning
November 18 - 19, 2026 - Foreign Direct Investment & Exporting
December 2 - 3, 2026 - Entrepreneurial & Small Business Development Strategies
December 9, 2026 - Economic Development Fundamentals 101
December 16 - 17, 2026 - Managing Economic Development Organizations
February 1 - 3, 2027 - EDCO 70th Annual Conference & Showcase
February 7 - 9, 2027 - IEDC Leadership Summit Washington
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