Ec Dev Leadership Learning Exchange

Formerly the Western Economic Development Course

October 20th to 22nd, 2024
Coast Bastion Hotel - Nanaimo

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Registration Fees:

BCEDA Member: $795.00 + GST
Non-Member: $895.00 + GST

Draft Outline:
Note: Topics subject to change – Formalized agenda to be realized at a later date
 
Join us for an immersive three-day course designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge in economic development leadership, integral to achieving the new BCEDA CEDP.BC Certification. This comprehensive program will delve into a range of key economic development activities vital for fostering thriving communities.
 
Setting the Foundation
 

• Welcome and CEDP.BC Designation Overview (30 min): An introduction to the program and certification requirements.
• Foundations of Ethical Economic Development: Navigating the First 90 Days: Learn the ethical frameworks and best practices crucial in the early stages of economic development initiatives.
• Economic Development Marketing: Insights from industry experts on effective marketing strategies tailored for economic development efforts.
• Tourism and Economic Development or Tourism Investment Readiness: Strategies for leveraging tourism as a driver of economic growth and community development.

• Finding and Using Statistics and Measuring Economic Impact: Practical approaches to gathering and interpreting data to measure economic impact.
• Building Enterprising and Vibrant Communities through Business Engagement: Techniques for engaging businesses to foster community development and economic growth.
• Entrepreneurship and Small Business: Supporting small businesses as engines of local economic vitality.
• Local and Indigenous Economic Development Partnerships: Cultivating partnerships with local and Indigenous communities to enhance economic development outcomes.

• Community Development Strategies: Addressing non-typical community needs like workforce, healthcare, and housing through innovative economic development strategies.
• Workforce, Housing, Healthcare – Integrated Session: A focused session exploring the interconnected roles of workforce development, housing initiatives, and healthcare in community economic development.
• Revitalizing Communities: Strategies and case studies for revitalizing neighborhoods and downtown areas to promote community vibrancy.
• Strategic Planning: Developing effective strategic plans to guide economic development initiatives and achieve sustainable community growth.

 
This course combines expert-led sessions, interactive workshops, and practical case studies to provide participants with actionable insights and strategies essential for effective economic development leadership. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned professional, this learning exchange promises to enrich your understanding and capabilities in driving economic prosperity and community well-being.

Funding Opportunities

Rural and Indigenous communities can apply to the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP) for funding, under the Economic Capacity category.

Eligible Participants

• Small rural communities with populations of less than 2,500

• Indigenous communities and organizations 

Who Should Attend?

• Economic Development Staff

• Mayor/Chief & Council Members

• Board Members

• Department Heads

• Chamber of Commerce

• Planners/Development Services

• CAO

• Interns

• Students 

• Federal/Provincial Government Employees

• Those with an interest in economic development

Cancellation Policy:
Substitutions will be accepted at any time. All registered attendees cancelling their registration, will be charged a $75 processing fee, regardless of when the cancellation notice was received. Cancellations by phone are not accepted. Cancellations must be received in writing by mail, fax or email to Ashleigh Volcz (e-mail: info@bceda.ca or Fax: 604-795-7119). Cancellations received in writing on or before August 31, 2024 will be refunded or credited to a future BCEDA event (less a $75 processing fee). These transactions will be processed after the course. There will be no refunds or credits for cancellations received after August 31, 2024. A registered attendee, who does not submit a written cancellation or attend the course is considered a No-Show and is not eligible for a refund or credit. A registered attendee, who does not submit a written cancellation or attend the course, is still liable for any outstanding balances.