The annual meeting of Community Futures Eastern Ontario (CFEO) was held on July 20th, 2023, at the vibrant campus of Loyalist College in Belleville, Ontario. Bringing together executives, board members, stakeholders, partners, and representatives from Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs) across the region, the event proved to be a remarkable platform for collaboration, learning, and discussion around advancing economic prosperity in Eastern Ontario.
The morning sessions commenced with introductory speaker Jeremy Laurin, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Transformation at Loyalist College. Jeremy, along with Kurstin Salisbury, Research Coordinator, and Laurie Caouette, Industry Partnership Officer, highlighted how applied research and innovation contribute to fruitful partnerships between industry, academia, and government. The discussion underscored the significance of fostering innovation to drive economic growth in the region.
Kurstin Salisbury, Research Coordinator
Laurie Caouette, Industry Partnership Officer
Karen Fischer, Agriculture and Rural Economic Development Advisor at Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), then took the stage to give a keynote talk and delve into the crucial aspects of Community Economic Development and how the partnership between Community Futures and OMAFRA contributes to regional economic development strategies. Karen's expertise and passion for building vibrant rural communities shone through, as she shared valuable strategies to retain and expand businesses while supporting local rural sectors.
The CFEO Annual Meeting followed, where Wendy Stone, CFEOs Board Chair, led discussions on the strategic goals and achievements of the CFDCs, outlining a roadmap for future growth and prosperity.
Wendy Stone, CFEOs Board Chair
The day was filled with engaging presentations, meaningful conversations, and valuable networking opportunities. The event captured the essence of partnership, collaboration, accountability, and the commitment to supporting one another's success. The Community Futures Eastern Ontario Meeting of the Members at Loyalist College exemplified the collective passion and dedication of its members to fostering economic growth and opportunities, ensuring that rural communities in the region will continue to thrive.
The CFEO network looks forward to another year of fruitful collaborations and making a positive impact on the economic landscape of Eastern Ontario.
"The support rural businesses and organizations receive from Community Futures Development Corporations through the Community Futures Eastern Ontario Network is key to the future growth and success of the region. The tools that CFDCs provide rural businesses drive economic growth and create good jobs. By continuing our support for CFDCs across southern Ontario, our Government is investing in the potential of rural communities and ensuring that they will continue to thrive." - The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.
