The Vendor is required to provide to assist with the development of an action oriented and innovative economic development strategy.
- Provide the economic development strategy is to provide a clear, actionable framework to support sustainable economic growth in the city over the next five years.
- The strategy will identify key municipal priorities for growth, diversification, and investment attraction, establish timelines for implementation, and guide strategic decision-making and resource allocation.
- It will assess opportunities related to business retention and expansion, workforce development, investment readiness, and sector development, building on existing assets and identifying new initiatives.
- Emphasis will be placed on advancing long-term economic resilience while delivering short-term actions with tangible results.
- Review existing economic development initiatives, priorities, and partnerships, and will propose specific actions supported by measurable outcomes.
- The development of the strategy will incorporate meaningful community and stakeholder engagement to ensure alignment, commitment, and a proactive approach to strengthening and expanding the local economy.
- Background Review and Research
• Review existing municipal plans, policies, and reports, including the 2012 Economic Development Strategy;
• Analyze current economic, demographic, and labour market conditions; and
• Review relevant regional, provincial, and federal economic development initiatives.
- Council, Community and Stakeholder Engagement
• Town Hall sessions with community members, such as residents, entrepreneurs, and workforce participants;
• A community survey to gather feedback on the state of economic development from the perspective of businesses and residents;
• Focus group sessions with key stakeholders, which may include:
o Local businesses and employers;
o City staff and elected officials;
o Business and economic development organizations;
o Education, training, and workforce partners; and
o Other relevant community partners.
• Documentation and analysis of engagement findings and how they inform the strategy.
- Questions/Inquires Deadline: February 25, 2026
