EDCO Annual Report
2015
EDCO’s Vision For Ontario
Enhance and develop an economically viable and environmentally responsible Ontario.
EDCO’s Mission Statement
EDCO will provide leadership to enhance the professional development of its members;
advance economic development as a profession and support our municipalities in fostering
economic prosperity in the province of Ontario.
EDCO’s Key Strategies
1. Increase awareness of EDCO as the lead economic development organization in
Ontario on the part of government and other key economic development
stakeholders.
2. EDCO will pursue stronger communications with members, partners and stakeholders
with the priority given to the EDCO website.
3. EDCO will be known as a leading professional economic development organization
with a strong, relevant voice for economic development both in the economic
development community and related audiences.
4. Support the role and function of the Economic development Officer through enhanced
training and education and a strengthening of their position within local government.
Code of Ethics
Be it known to all persons by these present that members of the Council are dedicated to:

Conform to the highest ethical standard in all business, promotional and competitive
activities while being respectful of the efforts of others in promoting Ontario as an
investment location
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Avoid all actions which might give the appearance of using their position to secure a
personal tangible benefit
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Uphold and maintain the dignity and prestige associated with Council membership
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Co-operate with fellow members in informal exchange of information and ideas
reflecting practices, trends and policy pertaining to economic development

Give careful thought and unprejudiced consideration to problems affecting the Provincial
and Federal field of Economic Development if and when requested by the Council.

Accept personal responsibility for furthering the Council’s programme when called upon
Table of Contents
Page
EDCO’s Vision for Ontario…………………………………………..
1
EDCO’s Mission Statement…………………………………………..
1
EDCO’s Key Strategies……………………………………………….
1
EDCO’s Code of Ethics……………………………………………….
2
President’s Report – Robert Lamb, Ec.D. CEcD…………………….
3/4
2015 EDCO Board of Directors……………………………………….
5
2015 Annual General Meeting Agenda……………………………….
6
2014 Annual General Meeting Minutes ………………………………
7/8
EDCO Annual Conference Report, Paul Finley, Delia Reiche Co-Chairs ..
9/10
EDCO Marketing Committee Report – Christina Kakaflikas …………..
11/12
EDCO Professional Development Report – Alison Newton ………….
13/14
EDCO Membership Committee – Eleethea Savage……………………
15
EDCO Young Professional Report – Pranab Shah ……………………
16
Ministry of Economic Development, Trade and Employment/Ministry …
of Research and Innovation, – Brian Love/Debbie Walker
17/18
Ministry of Agriculture and Food/Ministry of Rural Affairs – Doug Reddick 19-21
Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport – James Lynn ………………….
22/23
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines – Claude Rivet ……………
24-29
Past President’s Report – Paul Finley………………..........................
30/31
EDCO Past Presidents Listing …………………………………………….
32-34
EDCO Honourary Life Member Listing …………………………………..
35
*Note EDCO 2015 EDCO Financial Statements are available under separate cover.
2016 Presidents Report
This past year EDCO reached a major milestone in the size and strength of your organization. In
2015, with the new membership initiative and the work of the EDCO YPN (Young Professional
Network) EDCO not only surpassed the 1,000 membership level but by December also officially
went over the 1,100 members mark as well, making EDCO the largest Economic Development
organization in Canada.
With the launch of our new EDCO website, eblasts and various social media posts our
communications efforts with our membership has never been stronger. That doesn’t mean we
aren’t committed to finding new and effective ways to communicate with our membership. The
Marketing Committee is always looking at new and effective ways of keep you updated on the
latest trends and opportunities in Economic Development in Ontario and around the world.
This past year EDCO launched our first ever Elected Officials Training with great success. I
would like to thank David Cash for putting together this great training session that was run on 3
occasions in front of over 70 elected officials. EDCO also ran its first Women in Economic
Development session in Toronto which hopefully will grow to become an annual event. In 2015
we did an analysis of our membership base and found that 47% of our profession is now made
up of women. The same held true for your 2015 Board in which 6 of the 11 elected members
were female. Equality statistics as a professional association and a profession that we should
be all proud of.
In 2015 we also partnered with the Province (OMAFRA) in delivering three Foundations of
Regional Economic Analysis session across the province and the Canada Ontario Export Forum
to deliver an Export Seminar in Toronto. We also partnered with the Ministry of Tourism,
Culture and Sport to deliver two “Are You Ready for the Tourism Investment Dragons which
prepared EDCO members for their investment opportunities pitches during the second Tourism
Investment Dragon session. The EDCO Investment Alliance also worked with and helped
coordinate many of our local municipalities on their trade mission to MIPIM and Corenet.
Your Board has worked hard to make sure we are always working for, and in, the best interest
of our membership. Our professional partnerships with EDAC and IEDC, our many other
corporate and association agreements helps to keep EDCO as strong organization for our
members. And moving forward, a revised Strategic plan along with a new exciting event, our
Spring Symposium, that you will hear more about at the AGM mean there is even more and
exciting things ahead in 2016.
It has been a pleasure to serve as your President in 2015. In closing I would like to thank the
entire 2015 Board of Directors and our CEO Heather Lalonde for all their hard work and
support.
Thank you
Robert Lamb, Ec.D., CEcD
2015 EDCO President
2014/2015 EDCO Board of Directors
President
Robert J. Lamb, Ec.D. CEcD, CAO – Township of Tay
First Vice President
John Regan, Ec.D. (F) CEcD – Town of French River
Second Vice President
Kerri King, Ec.D., CEcD – Region of Durham
Secretary Treasurer
Christina Kakaflikas, Ec.D, CEcD – City of Markham
Past President
Paul Finley – Sturgeon Falls
Directors
Alistair Baird – County of Renfrew
Tom Dodds – Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation
Kapil Lahkotia – London Economic Development Corporation
Alison Newton – Town of Oakville
Delia Reiche Eleethea Savage – City of Greater Sudbury
Liaison Directors
Claude Rivet – MNDM
Debbie Walker - MCIIT
Doug Reddick – OMAFRA
Pranab Shah - YPN
James Lynn – MTCS
Brian Love – MEDEI/RI
Annual General Meeting Agenda
Wednesday, February 3, 2016 – 8:00 a.m.
Toronto Marriot Eaton Centre Hotel
525 Bay Street
Toronto, Ontario
1.OFFICIAL OPENING: Annual Meeting – 2015 President Robert Lamb, Ec.D, CEcD.
2. (A) MINUTES – February 11, 2015 – Motion required.
(B) BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
3.COMMITTEE REPORTS PRESENTATION – President Robert Lamb, Ec.D., CEcD.
 Movement of reports by President Robert Lamb, Ec.D., CEcD.
 Motion to retain Auditors - President Robert Lamb, Ec.D., CEcD
 Introduction of 2016 - President Robert Lamb, Ec.D., CEcD
 Motion to destroy Board election ballots - President Robert Lamb, Ec.D., CEcD
4. PRESENTATIONS
(A) RETIRING DIRECTOR’S GIFTS – President Robert Lamb, Ec.D., CEcD
5. NEW BUSINESS
 EDCO Scholarships
 EDAC Greetings – Greg Borduas, Ec.D.
 IEDC Greetings – Jeff Finkle, CEcD.
6. 2015 PRESIDENT’S PRESENTATION AND ADJOURNMENT – John Regan, Ec.D, CEcD.
7. 2016 PRESIDENT’S COMMENTS
8. ADJOURNMENT
Annual General Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, February 11, 2015 – 8:00 a.m.
Hamilton Convention Centre, Room Chedoke B/C
1 Summers Lane, Hamilton, Ontario
1. OFFICIAL OPENING: Annual Meeting – 2014 President Paul Finley welcomed distinguished
guests and EDCO members to the EDCO Annual General Meeting and provided a brief look back
at what was accomplished in 2014.
2. (A) MINUTES – February 5, 2014 –
Motion 01:02:15 AGM: Moved by Jennifer Patterson, seconded by Robert Lamb to approve the
minutes as presented.
(B) BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES
There is no business arising from the minutes.
3. COMMITTEE REPORTS PRESENTATION –
Secretary Treasurer, Kerri King presented an overview of the audited statements.
Motion 02:02:15 AGM: Moved by Kim Wingrove, seconded by Cheryl Peters to approve the
audited statements as presented.
APPROVED
Motion 03:02:15 AGM: Moved by Cheryl Peters, seconded by Tom Dodds to increase
membership dues by 5%.
APPROVED
Motion 04:02:15 AGM: Moved by Aileen Murray, seconded by Bruce Strapp to approve BDO as
the auditors for 2015 and 2016.
APPROVED
2014 Past President Jennifer Patterson introduced the 2015 Executive and Board of Directors
Motion 05:02:15 AGM: Moved by Robert Brindley, seconded by John Regan to destroy the
Board election results.
APPROVED
4. Paul Finley presented retiring directors with an award of appreciation for their contributions.
5. NEW BUSINESS
John Regan, Chair of the Professional Development Committee, announced that EDCO is
pleased to launch a scholarship program for 2015. Members will be able to submit applications
to the program in the coming months.
Greetings were delivered to attendees by EDAC representative Aileen Murray.
6. 2015 PRESIDENT’S PRESENTATION
Paul Finley provided a brief presentation on the Board’s priorities for 2015.
8. ADJOURNMENT
Motion 06:02:15 AGM: Moved by Paul Finley to adjourn the meeting.
2016 Annual Conference Report
The 59th Annual EDCO Conference and Showcase comes at a time when Ontario communities
are being challenged within an increasingly competitive global business environment. Entitled
Ontario’s Transformation: Economy by Design, this year’s Conference provides members and
attendees with an opportunity to participate in keynotes, seminars and workshops facilitated
by some of industry’s top leaders. The Conference Committee has specifically designed a
program which provides you the space to imagine, create and network with your peers and to
participate in team work which will ignite your competitive spirit.
This year’s Conference program features keynote presentations by distinguished industry
experts and business, institutional and community leaders who who will share their knowledge,
experiences and ideas regarding new and innovative strategies and approaches to improving
your community’s capacity and ability to perform more effectively in the business, trade and
investment marketplace. Keynotes include:
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Bonnie Brooks, Vice-Chairman, Hudson's Bay Company who will speak about how she
brought sweeping and transformative changes to HBC leading to its repositioning in
Canada and respective mergers and takeovers of Lord and Taylor USA and Sachs Fifth
Avenue.
Louise Watson of Adura Strategy / Performance Management Blueprint who will talk
about the struggles people and organizations have in implementing performance
management and how to identify and to root out “bad habits” in order to bring about
transformational change.
Roger Brooks, President and CEO of Roger Brooks International who will walk delegates
through the seven steps required to recruit investment and increase the tax base of
communities.
There will also be a series of informative sessions regarding a host of topics including:
How
to foster innovation within your community; Maximizing opportunities for regional
collaboration; Non-traditional approaches to recruitment & training; Collaboration between
First Nations and neighboring communities; How businesses can attract top grads to their
communities; Perceptions of U.S. executives regarding Canada’s business climate; and
Challenges facing development of local food entrepreneurship programs. There is also a special
field trip to the Archives of Ontario and its research, special exhibits and preservation facilities.
The Conference is being preceded by a pre-conference session at the Ontario Investment and
Trade Centre offered in partnership with EDAC and the University of Waterloo entitled
Investment Readiness for Communities and Regions, where participants will learn about what
global investors are looking for and what communities need to know and do to capture their
attention.
This year’s Opening Reception is being held at Ripley’s Aquarium where delegates have an
opportunity to network with their professional colleagues within the environment of Toronto’s
newest, world-class tourism attraction. Also new this year is the Scavenger Hunt, a digital team
event which will promote competitive spirit and further promote comradery amongst
conference attendees. The Conference will wind up with a series of Town Hall discussions
providing delegates with an opportunity share their respective concerns and views on issues
affecting their communities. As always, the Conference will conclude with the President’s
Dinner and annual Ontario Economic Development Awards presided over by Ontario’s
Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell.
At this time, we wish to take the opportunity to thank our Conference and Awards sponsors
who so graciously support the activities of EDCO and the economic development profession
throughout Ontario. We also wish to acknowledge the members of this year’s Conference
Planning Committee which include Meredith Bowers,
Becky Breedon, Murray Clarke, Mike Florio, Fiaz Jadoon, James Lynn, Michelle Madden, Amy
Malyon, Ann Matyas, Laura Pearce and Belinda Wick, who have contributed their knowledge
and energy to ensure this year’s program meets your professional needs.
We also wish to offer a special thanks to our Conference Coordination team of Cindy Hick of
HPB Management, Samantha Reynolds-Tubman of Next Wave Events and Heather Lalonde,
EDCO’s Chief Executive Officer for their leadership, commitment and work “above and beyond”
to ensure that the EDCO Conference remains Canada’s premier economic development
conference.
Thank you all!
Delia Reiche, Co-Chair
Paul Finley, Co-Chair
EDCO Marketing Committee Report
In 2015, the Marketing Committee focused on implementing the recommendations of the
EDCO Content Strategy which aimed to further improve our online presence by establishing a
structured, strategic and systematic approach to planned communications with our
stakeholders including members, prospective members, and others.
Some of our achievements include: streamlining our email communications by eliminating the
“In the Loop” format and focusing on the EDCO Exchange as the main email communication
channel to our members; moving to a new association software management program and
redesigning our website to allow for more control over updates and changes, thereby reducing
our costs and increasing efficiencies; improving communication to prospective members and
partners by starting a quarterly outreach campaign to this specific group; launching a new
LinkedIn strategy with the creation of new EDCO LinkedIn page to engage our members and
followers.
Thanks to the collective efforts of the Board and to our EDCO members, we have seen a
substantial increase in our online engagement.
EDCO Online Metrics
2013
Website visits
3068
Twitter Followers
799
LinkedIn members
727
YPN LinkedIn members
136
Facebook Likes
165
2014
3089
1180
858
201
226
2015
3,704
1,473
955
240
420
I would like to take the opportunity to thank the Marketing Committee members for their
contribution including Nina Gesa, Kerri King; Paul Finley; Robert Lamb; Raj Sian, and Alastair
Baird. A special thank you goes to Heather Lalonde, CEO and Amy Malyon, Marketing/Admin
Coordinator for their support and initiative.
It has been a pleasure to serve as Chair of the Marketing Committee. I encourage you to
consider actively participating on the Committee in 2016. We invite members to:
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submit news, participate in social media and write articles for EDCO
help us by identifying content of existing, shareable information including staff reports,
whitepapers, and academic papers
volunteer on our Committees
consider running in the next Board Elections
I look forward to our collaboration in 2016 as we continue to serve our members, build on our
achievements, and raise the profile of EDCO and of our members as leaders in economic
development.
Respectfully submitted,
Christina Kakaflikas, MAES, Ec.D, CEcD
Chair, Marketing Committee
EDCO Board of Directors
Professional Development Committee
The Professional Development Committee largely maintained its members in 2015 with a
dynamic and energetic group that brought forward an enormous amount of creativity and
passion to the committee.
Early in the year, it became apparent that the training session we had planned were struggling
with poor registration levels despite our efforts to match sessions with interest expressed
through our survey. It was felt that the frequency of the events was putting a financial and
human resource constraint on the EDO’s. Following much discussion, the committee chose to
take a two-pronged approach going forward. Through our various partners, including IEDC,
University of Waterloo and YFactor, more webinars will be available as course options for our
members. Webinars mitigate geographical contraints and allow for greater flexibility.
Secondly, a number of topics will be rolled up and bundled into our first ever Spring
Symposium. An RFP was issued in the fall and Sault Ste. Marie was chosen as the host venue.
The symposium will offer attendees a highly interactive event with a dedicated networking
reception highlighting local culture and culinary tourism. The format will also allow members to
earn points for attendance. Watch your packages at the 2016 EDCO Conference for further
details.
Following the new scholarship program launched last year which was a great success, the
committee continued the program in 2015. The program provides assistance to EDO’s from the
North and South, including a young professional component. The three recipients for 2016
scholarships will be announced at the Annual Conference in February. I would like to
acknowledge the tremendous time and effort put into this initiative by John Regan, Gord
Knowles and Jonathan Condratto.
2015 Professional Development Committee Members
Alison Newton (Chair)
John Regan
Gord Knowles
Jonathan Condratto
Myles Buck
Mislat Balogun
Kelly Stahl
Deb Mountenay
Development
Town of Oakville
Municipality of French River
Atikokan Economic Development Corporation
City of St. Charles
OMAFRA
City of Vaughan
City of Brampton
Elgin Middlesex Oxford Workforce Planning &
Eric McSweeney
Mark Steffler
Carlos Delgado
McSweeney & Associates Consulting Inc.
Burlington Economic Development Corporation
Regional Municipality of Durham
It has been an honour serving as Chair of the Professional Development Committee, and I am
excited to see the opportunities that will be developed as the momentum builds.
Respectfully Submitted,
Alison Newton, MBA, Ec.D., CEcD
Director
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
This year the Membership Committee accomplished a great deal of foundational work first
starting with a clear terms of reference. The purpose of this committee is to ensure EDCO’s
member growth and retention strategy is developed, implemented and evaluated annually.
This strategy is meant to build upon three main pillars: Membership Growth, Membership
Development and Retention and Membership Policies and Dues.
Just as you would with a business plan, it was important for the committee to understand the
market in order to recommend a target market. The committee review the current
membership data with respect to: geographic area, membership level, urban versus rural, years
experience and gender. As a result of this review it was interesting to note that the number of
members drops down for members with over 16 years experience. This will be something
worth exploring in the future and maybe addressed through professional development
offerings. It is also recommended that target market profiles be developed.
In effort to take specific action, the Committee recommended that the Board purchase the data
base of municipalities through the Association of Municipal Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario
(AMCTO). Using this database staff cross referenced with our existing membership in order to
determine the municipalities who were not members and a letter of introduction to EDCO was
sent to these non-member municipalities. This tactic proved to be successful and with more
active participation from both the Board of Directors and the Membership Committee it is
suggested that this approach be used again with a shared follow up plan.
Although, the Membership Committee did not develop a Membership Strategy it is strongly
recommended that a 12 month action plan be developed and more closely aligned with the
updated strategic plan to meet the deliverables and performance outcomes articulated in the
Terms of Reference.
The Membership Committee is a vital committee within EDCO’s organizational structure. The
health and growth of our organization is a direct reflection of our membership. Imagine for a
moment if we challenged each of our members to recruit just one new member. EDCO’s 2016
Plus One Campaign.
Eleethea Savage
Membership Committee Chair
Young Professional Network Committee
2015 Members:
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Pranab Shah, Chair
Rebecca Mustard, Durham Region
Jason Dias, MDB Insight
Carlos Delgado, Durham Region
Michelle Madden, University of Waterloo
1. Membership
The LinkedIn Page of EDCO YPN has grown to 250 individuals. The committee continues to
promote the YPN during various opportunities.
2. Mentorship program development
The Mentorship Program will begin in 2016. In 2015 the committee along with EDCO conducted
a survey to understand the level of interest of members as well as identify individuals
interested in participating.
A total of 10 matches have been made. The first meeting between the mentee and mentors will
happen during the EDCO Conference.
The YPN committee will also deliver a code of conduct to guide the expectations of the
individuals involved.
3. Networking and social program
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A Mentor Meet Up event in Waterloo during EDAC Year 1.
Similar events for Haldimand County and Eastern Ontario were cancelled due to a lack of
attendees.
Committee members presented to a group of urban planning students at Ryerson
University.
A similar presentation was also done to a York University regional studies program.
A Young Professional Networking event was hosted by the University of Waterloo’s LED
program during which several committee members were in attendance.
4. Support of EDCO programs
The YPN committee and members will continue to participate in various EDCO programs
include the Board of Directors, Professional Development Committee and Annual Conference
Committee.
2015 Year in Review
Ministry of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure
The Ministry of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure is committed to
accelerating Ontario’s economic growth.
Throughout 2015, much has been accomplished in Ontario to help businesses harness
innovation more rapidly, compete in global markets, adopt the latest technologies, and employ
and retain high-skilled talent. At a time of fundamental economic change, the ministry is
focusing on improving the competitiveness of today’s existing economy and encouraging a shift
to the emerging knowledge-based economy.
Supporting a Dynamic and Innovative Business Climate
Ontario is continuing to foster a more dynamic environment for businesses to grow and
succeed by helping innovative small businesses access capital, reducing the cost of doing
business, leveraging strategic investments and promoting global export opportunities.

Accelerating Ontario’s Economic Growth
Ontario launched a new Business Growth Initiative to help grow the economy and
create jobs by promoting an innovation-based economy, helping small companies scale-up and
modernizing regulations for businesses. Priority areas include:
o
Modernizing the regulatory system — lowering business costs through
regulations that are outcome-focused and evidence-based.
o
Scaling up — helping to catapult more Ontario firms into global leaders that
export to key markets, including a focus on service exports.
o
Driving innovation — accelerating the development, commercialization and
adoption of advanced technologies.

Leveraging Business Investment through Strategic Partnerships
The province launched the Jobs and Prosperity Fund to stimulate a globally competitive
business climate. The fund is providing $2.7 billion over 10 years to enhance
productivity, bolster innovation and grow Ontario's exports. Since its launch in January
2015, project commitments to date will support the creation and retention of more
than 14,000 jobs, attracting business investment of more than $900 million to
the province.

Reducing the Cost of Doing Business
Ontario is well ahead of its annual targets for reducing regulatory burden on
business.
Ontario’s first annual report on reducing red tape for business, released in
June, showed savings of $50 million and 2.4 million hours for businesses in the last four
years.
Promoting Global Exports and Attracting Foreign Investment
The ministry promoted Ontario globally through business missions to the U.S., Asia and
Europe. These missions highlighted some of Ontario’s advantages in ICT, research and
development, clean energy and auto manufacturing.
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For the second straight year, fDi Intelligence named Ontario the North American leader
in attracting foreign capital investment — surpassing regions with much larger
economies like California and Texas.
Investment Ready: Certified Site Program provides investors with more certainty when
looking for development opportunities. So far, there are 12 certified sites, including one
that has been conditionally sold for development.
Investing in Infrastructure
Ontario has committed to making the largest investment in public infrastructure in its history.
This investment, with more than $134 billion over 10 years in priorities such as roads, bridges
and public transit, will support more than 110,000 jobs on average per year. Progress includes:
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Announcing support for more than 200 projects that will keep people and goods
moving, connect communities and improve quality of life.
Passing the Infrastructure for Jobs and Prosperity Act to advance long-term
infrastructure planning.
Undertaking stakeholder/public consultations in 16 communities outside the GTHA to
help design initiatives that are part of Moving Ontario Forward.
Enhancing Employment Opportunities for all Ontarians
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The government introduced The Path to 2025: Ontario's Accessibility Action Plan to
ensure Ontarians of all abilities can reach their full potential.
Working with partner ministries, the ministry implemented an additional $250 million
over two years to the Youth Jobs Strategy to provide employment and skills
development opportunities for up to 150,000 youth.
Looking Ahead
Ontario is at a pivotal stage in its economic development.
The government is taking action through our bold, new plan — Business Growth Initiative — to
win the race for capital, customers and talent. In 2016, we will focus on achieving a collective
vision — one that addresses the competitive challenges of today’s economy and pivots to the
economy of the future.
OMAFRA’s Economic Development Update – January 2016
OMAFRA’s Economic Development Division (EDD) has been very active in providing resources
and tools that help economic development practitioners and communities across the province
work collaboratively to seek new opportunities, create jobs and attract investments.
2015 Highlights
Business Development Branch
Business Development Branch (BDB) has a single vision: to support investment and job creation
in Ontario. The Branch’s business development team facilitates foreign and domestic
investment in the province’s food, beverage and bio-products manufacturing sectors. The team
provides investment partners with fast, one-window access to knowledge, connections and
resources. In 2014 –15, BDB was instrumental in influencing the investment of $328 million in
Ontario’s food and beverage manufacturing sector and creating or retaining 2,218 jobs in the
province.
During 2015, BDB’s comprehensive range of business development attraction, retention and
expansion support services contributed significantly to key food and beverage sector
investments, including investments by: Frulact, Lassonde Beverages, P & H Foods, ,Super-Pufft,
and PepsiCo Foods.
Regional Economic Development Branch
Regional Economic Development Branch’s (REDB) core purpose is to develop and deliver
leading edge economic development resources that support thriving rural, agricultural and food
economies.
To meet the demand for regional economic analysis training, REDB once again partnered with
the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) to deliver the Foundations for Regional
Economic Analysis Training program.
This training has helped update and improve Ontario economic development practitioners’
understanding of the advantages of using data and analysis to support economic development,
key data resources; and tools and techniques for understanding and describing local and
regional economies for regional planning purposes.
Four sessions were delivered in Brownsville, Kingston, North Bay, and Simcoe County. 69 clients
participated in the Foundations for Regional Economic Analysis Training and 69 clients
participated in the Hands-On Training with Analyst.
Economic development practitioners, who can search out, analyze, utilize and be on top of
appropriate information give an advantage to their communities and will be better able to help
the community develop compatible and realistic strategies for economic development.
The Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E) Program has been undertaken by over 240
communities since 2005. In 2015, REDB released its updated program materials which included
a new coordinator’s manuals, surveys and resources. There were 18 local and/or regional BR+E
projects undertaken or completed which interviewed over 500 businesses across the
province. Anticipated outcomes of the completed projects include identifying actions to
improve the local business climate and the creation and retention of jobs. Three in-person
BR+E coordinator training sessions were held in Napanee, Brantford and Orillia. In partnership
with Ministry of Northern Development and Mines we successfully piloted a BR+E coordinator
training via webex into seven northern communities including 44 participants.
A new Strategic Planning Resource was developed for organizations. This is a step-by-step guide
to facilitating strategic planning and is available on-line. This resource was used successfully in
Huron County. Core teams from ten municipalities were trained to lead the economic
development strategic planning process with their communities. This ‘train-the-trainer’
approach to strategic planning has been used successfully with a number of non-profit
organizations in the past two years. Other tools for organizational development include on-line
learning modules for board governance, volunteer management, conflict management and
developing policies and procedures.
Launched at the October 2015 Municipal Agriculture Economic Development Forum and using
the success of the Measuring Up! performance measurement resource, REDB has developed
the Performance Resources: A Guide for Agriculture and Agri-Food Organizations. This resource
targets agriculture and agri-food organizations and can be used to understand, support,
develop and benefit from the performance measurement process. It can be applied to new
programs or projects or ones that are already up and running and employs both qualitative and
quantitative measures; and can be used as a report back measure for the success of funded
projects and strategic plans.
Over the past nine years, the Premier’s Award for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence has awarded
$3.8 million to 475 innovators. This Award recognizes the innovative contributions of
producers, processors, agri-food organizations and rural communities in Ontario. Their
innovations improve existing products, create new jobs and grow Ontario's economy. Award
recipients have told us that being recognized under the program has helped to increase
consumer confidence in their goods, created new business opportunities, and supported
further business expansion.
Rural Programs Branch
Ontario continued its commitment to the Rural Economic Development (RED) program.
Through the RED program, rural Ontario will be better positioned to attract investment and
create high-value jobs as well as train and sustain a highly-skilled, knowledge-based workforce
capable of succeeding in today's global economy and, to promote innovative and creative local
industries that can translate ideas into products and services for a global market.
In 2015, to ensure the RED program continued to support rural communities effectively, the
ministry temporarily paused application intakes to conduct a program review. The renewed
RED program began accepting applications on October 2, 2015 with the first intake closing on
January 15, 2016.
The renewed program now has two streams for applications: a Community Development
Stream and a Business Development Stream.
Support for municipalities and not-for-profits remains largely unchanged and fall under the
Community Development Stream. The Ministry has made changes for business applicants
through the Business Development Stream, which includes a cost-share of up to 20 per cent, to
a maximum of $1 million per project. The RED program cost-share level now aligns with other
government business support programs.
The Local Food Fund (LFF) provided up to $21 million over three years to support innovative local
food projects leading to increased economic activity (investment, sales and jobs), and the promotion
of local food. The final LFF intake closed on January 16, 2015. The program closes on March 31,
2016. Through LFF, the province has committed up to $21 million to 159 projects over the life of the
program.
Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport – 2015 Year in Review
Economic Development Council of Ontario (EDCO) Annual Report
Ontario continues to be the top destination for visitors to Canada, with more tourists and
spending than any other province or territory – a $28 billion industry supporting 347,000 jobs
and 148,000 tourism-related businesses throughout the province.
Ontario’s regional approach to tourism is working to support partnerships and collaboration
that leverage our best offerings and enhance the impact of the sector – a key economic driver.
By working together, 13 Regional Tourism Organizations and their partners are marketing and
developing tourism experiences to attract more visitors, generating more economic activity and
jobs.
Early reports show the low Canadian dollar is helping Ontario tourism this year. U.S. border
crossings were up 6.9 per cent between in the first half of 2015. We saw strong growth in
travellers from other countries such as South Korea, growing by 38 per cent, the Netherlands by
30 per cent, and Mexico by 28 per cent, compared with the same period last year. By 2018, the
number of visitors from China is expected to climb to 346,000, nearly three times the number in
2010.
From 2014 to 2018, visits from overseas countries are forecast to increase an average of 7.5 per
cent per year while spending will grow 15.3 per cent per year.
Increased consumer emphasis on year-round and authentic tourism experiences is leading
businesses to develop and promote unique products catering to international travellers who
are increasingly seeking out new experiences, both urban and outdoors. At the same time, the
Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation’s (OTMPC) emotionally-appealing brand is
presenting Ontario to the world as a place that is both exciting and relaxing – attracting
international visitors to a welcoming, safe and diverse province.
The Toronto 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games energized the entire Greater Golden Horseshoe
and province as we hosted 250,000 visitors and 10,000 athletes and coaches this summer from
across the Americas and the Caribbean. It was the single-largest multi-sport event ever held in
Canada and a resounding success. The media exposure during the Games bodes well for
tourism and return visitors in the future.
The Games also helped leverage opportunities among provincial ministries and other levels of
government. The City of Toronto unveiled its newly redeveloped Union Station, where OTMPC
completed construction of a travel information centre in August, cost-shared with the city. We
also ushered in a new Union Pearson Express train link, conveniently moving visitors between
the international airport and city.
Ontario is home to major international accommodation brands and successful recent attraction
brands that include LEGOLAND Discovery Centre in Vaughan and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
in Toronto.
Our Tourism Investment Attraction Strategy moves forward as well-known tourism operators
invested in products that included, among others, the successful Edge Walk at the CN Tower,
Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster at Blue Mountain, and the first-ever NASCAR-style motor
speedway in Canada, a project under development in Fort Erie with exciting tourism
opportunities for the entire region.
Niagara Falls remains one of the world’s premier tourism destinations. From November 1, 2013
to March 31, 2015, Niagara Parks Commission drew more than 3.5 million visitors, and tour
boat operator Hornblower attracted 1.6 million.
Ontario also has a thriving retail market for our visitors. The province is home to 10 of Canada’s
20 top performing malls. A 2015 global retail report by CBRE named Toronto as the leading
market in North and South America for international retail expansion, surpassing cities such as
Los Angeles, New York City, Mexico City and Buenos Aires.
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport helped celebrate Ontario’s heritage,
commemorating 400 years of French presence in Ontario this year. We are supporting cultural
programming and sport initiatives – including the highly successful Toronto International Film
Festival (TIFF) and major sporting events such as the 2015 and 2017 International Ice Hockey
Federation World Junior Championship in Toronto, the NBA All-Star Weekend in 2016 and the
North American Indigenous Games coming to the Greater Toronto Area in 2017. The Celebrate
Ontario program invested in 271 festivals and events, including events with an Aboriginal focus,
supporting local job creation and local economies.
The permanent $10-million annual Ontario Music Fund is supporting a cultural showcase for
Ontario’s talent and expertise and leading to more content production and live music
performances – a boost for tourism.
The revitalization of Ontario Place into a world class destination moved forward. The first step –
a new urban park and trail, named the William G. Davis Trail in honour of Ontario’s former
premier – is expected to open in the fall of 2016 and link to the existing waterfront trail system
from Niagara to Cornwall, a tremendous asset for families and visitors.
Our world class culinary and wineries in Southwest Ontario, Niagara and Prince Edward County,
our excellent outdoor recreation on the provinces beaches, lakes and waterways, and our
remote northern Ontario angling and hunting adventures all continue to attract visitors.
We look forward to the continuation of a strong partnership with EDCO in helping to strengthen
our communities and economy, creating jobs and prosperity for Ontarians.
EDCO MNDM Ministry Liaison Report – Annual Report (Feb. 2016)
The Ministry of Northern Development and Mines (MNDM) continues to work in collaboration
it’s other Ministries to deliver services such as the Ministry of Agriculture Food and Rural
Affairs’ Economic Development programs and tools in the North, the Ministry of Economic
Development, Employment and Infrastructure (MEDEI) and Ministry of Research and
Innovation (MRI)’s Certified Site Selection Program, the administration of the seven Region
Small Business Enterprise Centres, helping identify the innovation cluster which are emerging in
the North, The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport’s Celebrate Ontario Northern application
review... just to name a few.
Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC)
From October 2003 - Present (December 17, 2015), I am pleased that the NOHFC has approved
over $1 billion ($1,071,120,421.19), leveraging over $3.75 billion ($3,750,086,699.89) toward
7,082 projects in Northern Ontario. Through this 28,786 jobs have been created or retained
(includes internships and co-op placements).
MORE DETAILS:
The NOHFC was established in 1988 with a mandate to promote and stimulate economic
development initiatives in Northern Ontario by providing financial assistance to projects that
stabilize, diversify and foster the economic growth and diversification of the region.
The NOHFC is an agency of the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, and is governed
by a Board of Directors from across the North that is appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in
Council.
The Corporation provides economic development funding toward approved projects in the
territorial districts of Northern Ontario, namely Algoma, Cochrane, Kenora, Manitoulin,
Nipissing, Parry Sound, Rainy River, Sudbury, Thunder Bay and Timiskaming.
The Growth Plan for Northern Ontario (Growth Plan) was released in March 2011. It’s the
Ontario Government’s plan for building up the North. The Growth Plan is driving a globally
competitive economy, supporting people and communities, renewing and expanding modern
infrastructure and supporting a healthy environment.
In August 2013, the NOHFC’s programs were realigned with the Growth Plan to provide
investments for emerging and priority economic sectors to drive and diversify the northern
economy. The NOHFC was approved for the following revised programs implemented in
October 2013: Northern Business Opportunity Program, Northern Innovation Program,
Northern Community Capacity Building Program, Strategic Economic Infrastructure Program,
and the Northern Ontario Internship Program.
NOHFC - Marque Initiatives
Recognizing the value of supporting Northern Ontario’s economy the NOHFC has provided
funding for initiatives that align with policy directions in the Growth Plan, in particular, the
Northern Policy Institute and the Northern Ontario Multimodal Transportation Strategy.
Northern Policy Institute
We are making smarter decisions based on better information by investing in quality research
to guide public policy development. The Northern Policy Institute (NPI,
www.northernpolicy.ca), made possible by a $5 million contribution from the NOHFC, is an
independent, not-for-profit organization that provides a northern perspective. Grounded in
quality research it serves as a guide for public policy development and provides information to
governments, municipalities, communities, First Nations, businesses and industries in Northern
Ontario.
Northern Ontario Multimodal Transportation Strategy
We are focused on the future needs of Northern transportation in developing a ‘made in the
North’ strategy for an integrated transportation system.
Ontario is working with northern partners to develop a Northern Ontario Multimodal
Transportation Strategy to identify policy and program and investment opportunities for a
modern and sustainable transportation system in Northern Ontario. The Strategy, funded in
part by a $2.2 million contribution from the NOHFC, will support economic prosperity and
enhance quality of life for Northerners.
To be completed in 2017, the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) is leading the development of
the Strategy through technical studies and engagement with stakeholders, First Nation and
Métis. The technical work will provide evidence-based information to support government
decision making and will include a comprehensive examination of the transportation system,
the users, providers, future demand and opportunities for the next 25 years.
NOHFC – Program Highlights (Fiscal 2014 – 15)
Strategic Economic Infrastructure Program
We’re supporting projects that help create jobs and build capacity in northern communities.
The NOHFC provided $1.8 million in funding support to the Northern Ontario Farm Innovation
Alliance (NOFIA). The funding assists with land clearing and tile drainage projects representing
34 producers and resulting in improvements to approximately 4,450 acres of agricultural
land. NOFIA is a not-for-profit organization that promotes research, development and the
commercialization of agricultural products, while creating economic opportunities for Northern
Ontario’s agricultural industry. NOFIA plays a key role in the farming industry in the
Timiskaming-Cochrane region.
Community Capacity Building Program
We’re growing our economy by supporting strategic municipal planning with our Northern
Community Capacity Building program. The NOHFC provided $15,000 in funding support to
Tourism Northern Ontario toward a Northern Ontario Tourism Summit that included
workshops, information sessions, keynote speakers and a trade show for over 250 Northern
Ontario tourism industry stakeholders.
Northern Innovation Program
By supporting development and commercialization of new technologies we’re contributing to
future prosperity in Northern Ontario. The NOHFC invested $814,000 to support Lakehead
University in the creation of a five-year Industrial Research Chair position in Green Chemicals
and Processes. The project will focus on ways for the pulp and paper and mining industries to
reduce their environmental impacts.
Northern Business Opportunity Program
We’re encouraging major business productivity and expansion, as well as global investment in
northern communities with our Northern Ontario Business Opportunity Program. The NOHFC
invested $4 million to help Rentech Inc. convert two idle wood product mills into facilities that
manufacture wood pellets as a sustainable energy source. The facilities, located in Wawa and
Atikokan, will turn Crown-owned wood materials that previously would not have been used or
sold, into wood pellets to be used to produce electricity in local and international power
production facilities. The two facilities have created over 60 jobs in Northern Ontario.
Northern Ontario Internship Program
We’re strengthening the North’s competitive advantage by attracting and retaining graduates
through our internship program. Post-secondary graduates are gaining valuable work
experience to prepare for future careers through internship placements funded by the
NOHFC. In 2014-15, the NOHFC invested $10.7 million to help 401 recent graduates secure job
placements with public and private sector organizations across Northern Ontario.
Mining Supply and Services Export Assistance (MSSEA) Program
In April 2010, MNDM completed a strategic analysis of Northern Ontario’s Mining Supply and
Services (MSS) sector to better understand the scope, size, and challenges facing the sector.
The study identified that the sector did not have a diversified client base and was therefore at
risk and also found that firms of all sizes were over-reliant on a few clients. Regional MSS
companies interviewed during the study noted that they did not have the capabilities required
to effectively develop and implement an export strategy.
As a result of the study findings, in November 2010, MNDM launched two programs, the
Strategic Export Marketing Program (SEMP) and the Export Marketing Assistance (EMA)
program. These programs were designed to help companies enter new markets in order to
increase and diversify their revenue streams.
To date, a total of 59 companies completed the SEMP training in phase one of the program and
based on this success, a second phase was added in 2013. There are currently another 24
companies completing the program.
MORE DETAILS:
Since December 2013 the program has:
 Approved 83 Export Marketing Assistance (EMA) funding applications for 65
companies. Under this component the following has been achieved:
o Disbursed $326,000 which has leveraged company spending of $740,000
o Companies have reported job creation estimates of 139
o Companies have reported job retention estimates of 453
o Companies have reported short-term sales of approximately $21.5M
o Companies have reported long-term sales projections of approximately $91.3M
The MSSEA program is a joint initiative delivered by the City of Greater Sudbury on behalf of
Ontario’s North Economic Development Corporation (ONEDC). It has financial support from
NOHFC, FedNor, ONEDC and the private sector companies.
The program is comprised of two separate components. These components are described
below:
1. Strategic ‘One-on-One’ Export Marketing Program (SEMP)
Working directly with an international export development advisor, this program includes six
months of customized one-on-one consultation whereby companies will develop a range of
tools and strategies that will teach them how to diversify their client base outside of Northern
Ontario.
2. Private Sector Export Marketing Assistance (EMA)
Companies engaged in or who completed the Strategic 'One-on-One' Export Marketing Program
(SEMP) can access up to $10,000 in export marketing financial assistance to assist with their
international and inter-provincial marketing efforts including trade shows, outbound sales
missions, display booths and website development.
EMA applicants can access up to $10,000 or 50 per cent of total eligible costs
This program provides timely financial assistance to help companies engage mining clients in an
increasingly complex global market, expand their marketing reach outside of Northern Ontario
and solidify revenue streams from a broader geographic customer base.
RESULTS:
Northern Ontario’s MSS Sector Takes Centre Stage at Northern Exports Forum
The first-ever Northern Ontario Exports Forum held last week on Wednesday, June 17, was a
resounding success. The event, organized by the Mining Supply and Services Export Assistance
Program (MSSEA), brought together 110 participants from almost 50 different mining supply
and services (MSS) companies for the purpose of sharing experiences and gathering market
intelligence related to exporting mining equipment and services from Ontario.
The forum featured nine breakout sessions, each one focused on a key export market for the
MSS sector. MNDM staff from the Trade, Investment and Marketing (TIM) unit in the in the
Transportation, Trade and Investment Branch and the Regional Economic Development Branch
(REDB) played an important role in coordinating these sessions, and participated in the ones
focused on Mexico, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Brazil, and Australia. The event also included
presentations from key companies in the mining industry, including De Beers, Stantec, and
Torex Gold, to name a few.
The forum was a very poignant illustration of how global Northern Ontario’s MSS sector is
becoming, and the role MNDM is playing in that transition. In addition to the many
international trade initiatives being led by the TIM unit, the ministry also supports, through the
Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, the MSSEA program. Deputy Minister David de
Launay was on hand at the export forum to welcome the delegates and to honour the recent
graduates of the MSSEA’s Strategic Export Marketing Program, which prepares small and
medium sized Northern Ontario companies for making sales in foreign markets.
Photo Caption: Deputy Minister David de Launay with Ricky Lemieux, President of Rock-Tech
and Marc Leroux, Manager of Trade, Investment and Marketing Unit. The Deputy toured RockTech’s new facility (NOHFC supported) on June 17 as part of an Export Forum outing. In
background is one of Rock-Tech’s products – a rock breaker.
The Regional Economic Development Branch
MNDMs’ Regional Economic Development Branch (REDB) works with businesses, economic
development practitioners and agencies, and other levels of government to facilitate job
creation in northern Ontario through its business and economic development initiatives. REDB
serviced over 1,100 clients this year through its network of 45 Northern Development Advisor
and Officers throughout the North. Services widely range from access to grants such as through
the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), FedNor, Trillium Foundation,
Regional Economic Development (RED) Program, other funding assistance, Community
Development through the Northern Community Investment Readiness (NCIR) Program, First
Impression – Community Exchanges (FICE), Downtown and Waterfront Revitalization, business
development assistance in a variety of applications such as export development, lean
manufacturing, marketing, business, retention and expansion (BR+E) initiatives, social media
integration, etc.
2015 EDCO Past President’s Report – Paul Finley
I will attempt to make this Past-President’s report brief and to the point. Over the past several
years as an EDCO participant and member of the Board, Executive or one of our many
Committees, I have met countless kind, committed and hard-working individuals – all of whom
share one common objective, that is to help make a difference in and help grow their
communities. Now before you respond, “Well yah, you could say that about anybody or
organization”, let me clarify matters. There are those that have the will and others that have
the way, but there are far fewer that have both! Economic developers are different. In our jobs
we are often expected to be everything to everyone – marketers, economists, psychologists,
politicians (small P’s), part-time babysitters (of the big P’s) and we are even occasionally asked
to turn water into wine! What are the rewards? Well the pay’s not bad (discounting unpaid
overtime) and the working conditions are fair depending on whether you like working out of
your car or sitting in an office doing last minute reports at midnight. However in the end, the
real reward comes from landing a company or investor that no one else could - or even better,
helping a small, local entrepreneur sell his first widget stateside. I could go on, but you know
who you are and what you do even though some continue to ask that age-old question, “How
many jobs did you create today?”.
We have a number of people within our ranks, former EDO’s who have graduated from their
positions and are now promoting companies and business opportunities abroad. Some have
gone on to become CAO’s of small and not-so-small communities. Others have retired from
their formal careers, but continue to work and serve the interests of community through
mentoring young professionals or training / becoming elected officials. Who ever said that
being an EDO is not a good training ground for bigger and better things? Much of this would not
happen without an organization that promotes continuous improvement through professional
training, organizational development and the sharing of best practises and approaches to both
traditional and emerging growth challenges.
Today, EDCO and its partners are working hard at building bridges and cooperative initiatives
with other quasi-economic development organizations from EDAC and IEDC to EMC, BDC, CoC,
EDC, CME, C2P3 and others. Recently renewed mandates with our national, international and
education partners are resulting in increased professional recognition and new growth
opportunities for our members both within the Province and abroad. We have partners in
education, real estate, manufacturing, financial services, human resources and about every
area of government where business, rural or tourism development exist. And it is because of
you, Ontario’s 1,000-odd EDO’s and your counterparts in other Provinces that this profession,
our Association and your communities continue to evolve and prosper.
I would like to thank both past and present members of the Boards with whom I have served,
our staff -largely of one (that’s you Heather) and most of all YOU, the members of this
organization for making my time one of constant learning and growth, mixed in with a little bit
of fun. As I join the ranks of preceding “PP’s”, I encourage you to continue your participation in
and support of the activities of this most valuable body and to generously share your
knowledge for the betterment of our communities.
I wish you all well!
Paul
Paul Finley
Past President, 2015
EDCO Past Presidents
2015 – EDCO
Robert Lamb, Ec.D,CEcD
Township of Tay
2014 – EDCO Paul Finley
West Nipissing
2013-EDCO
Jennifer Patterson, Ec.D., CEcD
City of Hamilton
2012-EDCO
Robert Brindley, Ec.D.
Township of Springwater
2011-EDCO
Kathy Weiss
Region of Durham
2010-EDCO
Lauren Millier
Millier Dickinson Blais
2009- EDCO
Aileen Murray, Ec.D. F
Municipality of Chatham-Kent
2008 – EDCO
Corporation
Geoff Gillon, Ec.D.(F)
Rainy River Future Development
2007- EDCO
Patti Watson
Fleming College
2005/06 - EDCO
George Borovilos, Ec.D (F)
Northumberland County
2004 – EDCO
Norm Schleehahn, Ec.D.
Hamilton
2003 – EDCO
Robert Smith
Richmond Hill
2002 – EDCO
Stephen Chait, Ec.D.
Markham
2001 – EDCO
Alex McLeod, Ec.D.
Peterborough
2000 – EDCO
Patrick Olive, Ec.D. (F)
Durham Region
1999 – EDCO
Bruce Graham
Toronto
1998 – EDCO
D. Bruce Strapp
Sault Ste. Marie
1997 – EDCO
Greg Borduas, Ec.D.
Bell Canada
1996 – EDCO
David Cash, Ec.D.
Kingston Area
1995 – EDCO
Reninold Kosciuw
Owen Sound
1994 – EDCO
Paul Plant
Woodstock
1993 – EDCO
Frankie Liberty, Ec.D. (F)
Diamond Triangle
1992 – EDCO
David Amos, Ec.D.
Brantford
1991 – EDCO
Patrick, Olive, Ec.D. (F)
Durham Region
1990 – OIDC
Edward A. Hunt, Ec.D.
Ingersoll
1989 – OIDC
Michael Duffy (deceased)
Halton Region
1988 – OIDC
Gordon Johnston
Mississauga
1987 – OIDC
James S. Appleyard
Toronto
1986 – OIDC
Matthew Fischer
Niagara Region
1985 – OIDC
James C. Mepham
Toronto
1984 – OIDC
Douglas J. Heron, Ec.D.
London
1983 – OIDC
D.B. (Bruce) Murray, Ec.D.
Guelph
1981/82-OIDC Kenneth W. Burke
St. Catharines
1979/80-OIDC James G. Marshall
Toronto
1977/78–OIDCThomas J. Flood, Ec.D.
Toronto
1975/76-OIDC Robert G. Mullen
Toronto
1973/74-OIDC James R. Moore
Windsor
1972 – OIDC
Kingston
Cec Pare, Ec.D. (deceased)
1970/71-OIDC G.C.(Cliff) Walters
Toronto
1969 – OIDC
Peterborough
R.P. (Ron) Williamson
1967/68-OIDC A.L. (Bert) Paterson
Welland
1966 – OIDC
Joseph a. Montgomery, Ec.D. (F)
Niagara Falls
1965 – OIDC
Ronald J. Cooksley
Oakville
1964 – OIDC
W. (Bill) Anderson
Cornwall
1963 – OIDC
C.A. Hudson
Sudbury
1962 – OIDC
J. Gordon Blair
Burlington
1961 – OIDC
Stephen Jones
Kitchener
1960 – OIDC
C.B. (Cutty) Cutten
Guelph
1959 – OIDC
Murray Elder
Windsor
1958 – OIDC
Thomas J. Flood
Stratford
1957 – OIDC
Victor McKenty
Kitchener
1957 – OIDC
William Gray (First HLM)
Chatham
EDCO Honouary Life Members
John B. Blanchard
Terrance Brady
Ken Burke
J.R. Delaney
Archie Gilles
Douglas J. Heron, B.Sc., Ec.D.
Harry L. Learn
James C. Mepham
J.A. Montgomery, CID, Ec.D.
R. H. Pryde
Gladys Schmidt, Ec.D.
Robert J. Wootton