During the 2018 EDCO conference, you witnessed the exciting announcement of the world’s largest European canal boat operator, Le Boat, investing in Ontario and establishing its North American Headquarters in Smiths Falls.
In spring 2018, Le Boat successfully launched in Ontario and the reviews are in. The investment created jobs, Ontario’s tourism global profile has been raised, tourism visits increased, and the impact on the local economy is significant.
In this session, you will hear about how Ontario communities addressed local buy-in, overcame zoning issues and planning challenges, and created new partnerships and authentic tourism programming.
The lessons learned and experience provided can help support and inform other investment initiatives across Ontario.
Developing the cruising industry is a focus of the Ontario government. Ontario’s 100,000 kilometres of rivers and streams, plus 250,000 lakes are more than just natural wonders.
When investment knocks and communities collaborate, waterways can represent passageways to economic prosperity.
In spring 2018, Le Boat successfully launched in Ontario and the reviews are in. The investment created jobs, Ontario’s tourism global profile has been raised, tourism visits increased, and the impact on the local economy is significant.
In this session, you will hear about how Ontario communities addressed local buy-in, overcame zoning issues and planning challenges, and created new partnerships and authentic tourism programming.
The lessons learned and experience provided can help support and inform other investment initiatives across Ontario.
Developing the cruising industry is a focus of the Ontario government. Ontario’s 100,000 kilometres of rivers and streams, plus 250,000 lakes are more than just natural wonders.
When investment knocks and communities collaborate, waterways can represent passageways to economic prosperity.
Moderator: Richard McKinnell, Assistant Deputy Minister, Tourism Division, Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport
Panelists:
- Jennifer Miller, Manager, Economic Development & Tourism, Town of Smiths Falls
- Ann Weir, Economic Development Manager, United Counties of Leeds and Grenville
- Amy Webb, Economic Development and Marketing Officer Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands
January 31
09:15
– 10:15
(1h)
Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel
