23 Dec 2020 Economic Development Year in Review
2020 had a lot of challenges for individuals, organizations and businesses alike. As such, it was more important than ever for the board of Economic Development Estevan to continue their work to support the local economy. Despite the challenges 2020 brought forth, there were a number of positives for the Energy City. From the work to make Estevan a rural tech hub, to being recognized as an innovative community by ICF, and the announcements of new business opportunities in the city, there was a lot to be thankful for in 2020.
One of the most exciting accomplishments, was the official opening of Estevan’s business incubator, Southeast Business Startup. Southeast Business Startup is the result of over a year of hard work, planning and execution. Since opening in June, Southeast Business Startup has provided support to local entrepreneurs by providing a co-working space, grant writing support, business incubator, and resource center. The reception to Southeast Business Startup has been good so far, and the future is destined to hold great things for this program.
Another big announcement that came from Economic Development Estevan was the announcement of q potential poly generation facility. If proven feasible, this project could provide a number of jobs to the local economy. The facility would use the existing resources in the area including coal, potash, and inert gases to create a number of products from fertilizer to hydrogen syngas, battery materials and much more. This exciting partnership is a collaboration with Buffalo Potash Corp, Government of Saskatchewan, Ocean Man First Nation, and the City of Estevan. Currently the team working on this project is working on the proof of concept to determine what the next steps will be to develop this facility.
The most recent announcement from Economic Development Estevan, has been the hiring of Doug Griffiths and his team from 13 Ways Inc. 13 Ways conducts a detailed study of the community to determine a roadmap for how to improve our city, and attain long-term success for the economy and our residents. Doug made his first trip to Estevan in mid-November and will be making several other visits in the coming months to continue their analysis. Other cities and towns that have worked with Doug and his team have had great success with the 13 Ways program and we are excited to see all that this can do for the City of Estevan.
So, when you look back on 2020 it was a year of highs and lows. It was a year of hardship, it was a year of change, it was a year of uncertainty. Through all of this, the community as it always does, was able to band together to support one another. By supporting our local economy, we have supported the businesses that provide valuable services, employment opportunities, and community support. In the end we will come out on top, with a stronger economy and stronger community!
Here’s to 2021 and everything it has to offer to our city!