KEDCO Update: Week Ending November 4, 2011

HIGHLIGHTS OF RECENT PROGRESS & ACTIVITIES

Business Development

On November 3, KEDCO hosted representatives from the Ministry of Economic Development and Innovation (MEDI) Manufacturing Investment Branch and Small Business Division to introduce them to Kingston’s industry leaders and emerging business sectors. Held at Innovation Park at Queen’s University, the meeting gave the chance for local businesses including ENDETEC, Anchor Concrete, INVISTA, GreenCentre Canada and Queen’s Academic/Industry Partnerships to showcase their products and services. MEDI works to attract new growth and investment to the province as well as promote Ontario goods and services abroad.

The Kingston Economic Development Corporation and Queen’s Career Services are now accepting registrations for the second annual Live and Work Kingston 2012 Career and Lifestyle Fair. The event, organized by Elizabeth Allen, Labour Market Development Project Manger will be held on February 1, 2012 at Grant Hall at Queen’s from 11:30am – 3:00pm. The goal of the event is to promote innovative opportunities for graduates with Kingston’s local employers as well as showcase the variety of business sectors within the community. Last year’s event saw 55 businesses registered and over 2,000 students attend.

Tourism Kingston

Tourism Kingston has released an Educational Opportunities in Kingston handbook for teachers and educational tour groups which outlines destinations for field trips and learning experiences within Kingston and the surrounding area. Ranging from Grade one to Grade twelve, the learning opportunities encompass a wide variety of subjects and strands with curriculum connections. Connie Markle, Conferences & Travel Trade Manager is distributing the handbook at the Ontario Motor Coach Association’s annual travel trade show being held in Windsor from November 5 – 10.  Educational tour travel is a growing niche sector which presents Kingston with a unique opportunity to showcase the more than 20 museums, historic sites, galleries and theatres.  Markle will also be providing links to the handbook to provincial school boards and educational organizations.