Economic developers gather in Newfoundland to focus on new ideas and creativity ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT EDAC annual conference: Innovation on the Edge Canadian Design and Construction Report staff writer Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) members from across the country gathered in St. John’s Newfound- land for the association’s annual conference Sept. 21 to 24. This year’s theme: “Innova- tion on the edge,” focused on new ideas and creativity. The association, which represents eco- nomic development professionals in munic- ipal, regional, provincial and federal economic development offices (and associ- ated suppliers and services), reflects the in- terests of officials in all levels of government who spend much of their time connecting with both elected officials and private sector businesses to facilitate community eco- nomic growth The conference is hosted in a different Canadian city each year. Last year’s event took place in Iqaluit, and in 2010 delegates gathered in Peterborough, Ontario (the Kawarthas). EDAC president Cheri Kemp-Long says venues are planned well in advance and are awarded based on presentations from inter- ested communities. “We look at accommo- dation available and other hosting abilities and these events are planned well in ad- vance. Next year we’ll be in Calgary.” This year’s conference follows the Re- source Investors Forum, also in Newfound- land, providing an opportunity for attendees to attend both events. “One of the values of the conference is networking, bringing peo- ple of different geographies together, as well as people from different interest groups.” EDAC members, reflecting their mandate, relate to entrepreneurs and developers as 44 – Fall 2013 — The Canadian Design and Construction Report well as public officials. According to the EDAC website, “Fostering greater innovation requires the collaboration of all levels of gov- ernment, economic development agencies and the private sector. Innovation encom- passes a wide range of activities in addition to research and development.” Kemp-Long indicates that Atlantic Canada has experienced many changes recently, with new industries and wealth, and the Newfoundland setting provides an opportu- nity for economic developers from across Canada to learn about the Atlantic experi- ence. The rotating regional conference model also allows EDAC members in the At- lantic provinces, who might not have the re- sources to travel outside their own region, to attend the national conference this year. The conference is also the setting for the association’s annual general meeting and EDAC professional certification exams. As well, awards ceremonies recognize mem- bers for their economic development contri- butions and marketing achievements. Throughout the year, EDAC promotes and advocates to governments and other re- gional groups to enhance understanding of professional economic development prac- tices. The association also works with uni- versities to develop programming and skills to support members’ professional develop- ment. “Economic development is about com- munity development, quality of life, enhanc- ing local environments for business development and success,” Kemp-Long says. “There is an ongoing need for under- standing all that encompasses.” For more information about EDAC, visit edac.ca.