Community Leaders Gather to Identify and Build on Regional Economic Development Opportunities

For Immediate Release
Dec. 11, 2023 

Representatives from a wide range of community groups, businesses and government gathered in St. John’s today to work on advancing regional economic development in Newfoundland and Labrador.  

The day-long Regional Economic Development (RED) Workshop 2023, titled Setting A Course, is a joint effort between the Harris Centre, CBDCs, Community Sector Council NL, and Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador (MNL). The workshop builds on the work done by the Regional Economic Development Task Force and the recommendations in the task force’s final report.  

Taking place at the Emera Innovation Exchange, Signal Hill Campus, the workshop included sessions on advancing recommendations for regional economic development; building on existing assets; and discussions on existing examples of regional co-operation. 

As stated in its final report, the RED Task Force was created to investigate and develop recommendations for the best ways to develop and support a coordinated planning approach to regional economic development in Newfoundland and Labrador. 

“MNL has long advocated for regional approaches to municipal governance and economic development. This workshop has brought together a diverse group of participants interested in a coordinated approach to economic development with a focus on regional cooperation. We look forward to continuing this important work with our members, partners and stakeholders.” – Amy Coady, MNL President 

“The CBDCs recognize that working collaboratively to grow and sustain our rural communities is crucial, now more than ever. Who we collaborate with can vary by region and that is due to the strength of local leadership. Today’s initiative highlights that support of grassroots activities is our best way forward.” – Roseanne Leonard, Managing Director, Newfoundland and Labrador Association of Community Business Development Corporations.  

“Building connections and fostering collaborations by leveraging the capacity of Memorial University is what the Harris Centre is all about —and today we saw this in action.  We are looking forward to the next stage of the process as we work towards a prosperous and sustainable society in Newfoundland and Labrador.” Kim Crosbie, interim director, The Harris Centre 

“We join our community colleagues today to forge a renewed path forward in regional economic development. By co-creating together with stakeholders from differing geographies, sectors and perspectives, we can build a common framework for future success and shared prosperity. I am encouraged by how today’s emerging community of practice can translate into tomorrow’s vibrant communities.” – Colin Corcoran, CSCNL CEO 

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Background 

Regional Economic Development Task Force Final Report (PDF)

Media Contacts 

Tobias Romaniuk
Communications and Marketing Officer, MNL
709 725 1440
tromaniuk@municipalnl.ca