SUMMERLAND – In June I had the opportunity to attend the BC Economic Development Association’s (BCEDA) 2016 Summit held in Richmond. One of the sessions introduced the results of the 2016 survey of economic development in BC. This survey included 414 responses from communities throughout BC and was sponsored by the BCEDA, the Union of BC Municipalities and the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training Economic Development Division.
Some of the responses were particularly interesting from our Chamber’s perspective as we partner with the District of Summerland to deliver economic development initiatives in our community. While we’ve done that for more than 15 years, the survey showed that this is becoming more common in BC. In 2009 the survey showed that 4% of communities used the services of their local Chambers to undertake EcDev work. In 2016 that number has climbed substantially to 32% overall with midsize communities of 5,000 – 50,000 being even higher at 38%.
Those in favor of having economic development delivered by an organization separate from the City, whether Chambers or other organizations, suggested that the arms-length relationship was non-partisan and provided the ability to build greater trust with the business community.
The report indicated that local business retention and expansion activities (BRE) continue to be the top priority for economic development efforts (65%), followed by tourism and cultural activities (48%), and attracting external industry, businesses and resources.
“Specific to BRE efforts, the three most commonly identified activities are community profiles, a developed website and personal contact with existing businesses. Other common BRE activities are business walks programs, promotional brochures and “Buy Local” events, the last of which saw a substantial increase” from the 2009 survey.
To read Summerland’s Investment and Relocation Guide, view our promotional videos, check the reports from our 2015 and 2016 business walks or check out our #discoverhome local shopping campaign, please visit www.summerlandchamber.com.
To read the province’s report in its entirety please visit www.gov.bc.ca/economicdevelopment.
– Christine Petkau is Executive Director at the Summerland Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at cpetkau@summerlandchamber.com.