Economic development organizations in West Prince are planning for a prosperous future
March 8, 2019 – Alberton, PE – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Communities in rural parts of Atlantic Canada are presented with distinct challenges and opportunites for economic growth. Longtime residents and newcomers alike who want to build a life and contribute to the growth of businesses in these communities will benefit from a new economic strategy that is both diverse and inclusive.
That is why the Government of Canada and the Province of Prince Edward Island are investing nearly $450,000 in support of projects in West Prince.
Bobby Morrissey, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), along with the Honourable Pat Murphy, PEI Minister of Rural and Regional Development made the announcement today.
Through ACOA's Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) the Alberton Community Development Corporation Ltd. and West Prince Ventures will receive a combined total of $287,896 for projects aimed at strengthening the economy in Western PEI. The Government of Prince Edward Island will contribute a combined total of $152,240 to the organizations.
The Government of Canada is making smart investments that will create good, middle-class jobs in our country. It is helping Atlantic Canadian communities access the tools they need to create sustainable economic growth. Support for this project is one way the Government of Canada is working to achieve its Atlantic Growth Strategy outcome of long-term economic prosperity in the region.
"These two organizations have been essential to supporting the business community in West Prince. I am pleased that the Government of Canada sees the value of investing in new initiatives aimed at increasing retention rates in our rural communities, addressing skilled labour needs, and taking strategic steps that will build on the strengths of our region."
Bobby Morrissey, Member of Parliament for Egmont
"Our rural communities drive the economy on Prince Edward Island and through a strategic approach we can assist in business development in the area of West Prince. The Province is pleased to invest in projects which assist in the sustainability, growth and prosperity of rural areas across the Island."
The Honourable Pat Murphy, PEI Minister of Regional and Rural Development
"We are grateful for the support of our federal and provincial governments as we work to identify and capitalize on key opportunities for economic growth across West Prince. We want to thank the many community stakeholders who have provided input and helped with this project. The completed study provides a clear and strategic path forward for our organization and the region."
Paula Foley, Director, Alberton Community Development Corporation, Ltd.
"West Prince Ventures Limited's mandate is to support business development and expansion for economic growth in western PEI. The Community navigator supporting population & inclusive growth will support our communities and new residents' needs with in-depth resources to help with integration and retention in West Prince. This support will be integral to the growth of our region."
Maxine Rennie, Executive Director, West Prince Ventures, Ltd
Quick facts
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The Alberton Community Development Corporation (ACDC) received an $80,000 ICF contribution from ACOA to conduct a study of regional economic opportunities. The Government of PEI supported this project with a $20,000 contribution from the Department of Regional and Rural Development.
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With the results of the initial study, the organization is now receiving a contribution of $159,536 to implement a new economic opportunity plan over a three to five year period. The Government of PEI is supporting this project with a $100,000 investment.
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West Prince Ventures Limited is receiving a $48,360 ICF contribution from ACOA for a project to create a new position of 'community navigator' for one year. The new position will support population and inclusive growth in rural PEI by providing resources and facilitating the integration of newcomers into the community. The Government of PEI will support this project with a $24,180 investment from the Department of Workforce and Advanced Learning and $8,060 from the Department of Rural and Regional Development.
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The Innovative Communities Fund (ICF) focuses on investments that lead to long-term employment and economic capacity building in Atlantic Canadian communities. Eligible recipients include non-commercial/not-for-profit organizations such as local development associations, municipalities and their agencies, business or technology institutes, industry/sector associations, economic development associations, local co-operatives, universities and educational institutions.
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The ICF continues to build on the objectives of the Innovation and Skills Plan, a multi-year strategy to create well-paying jobs for the middle class and those working hard to join it.
