The Town of Georgina is undergoing the process of developing a five-year Economic Development and Tourism Strategy to further strengthen and diversify the local economy. The Strategy will help provide direction and guidance to economic development and tourism activities for the Town over both the short- and long-term.
The world has changed dramatically over the past few years, and the business environment is different. At this time, this is an opportunity to hear from the community and collectively determine the best way forward for the Town to ensure a strong, resilient economy for Georgina.
During the summer of 2023, we engaged with 344 businesses, stakeholders, Council and residents to provide their input. McSweeney and Associates, the consultant hired to develop the new strategy, facilitated one-on-one interviews, focus groups, a public open session and an online survey. Staff and the community also participated in a half-day workshop to develop tactics on five themes.
This input, together with other reports, business data and strategies from the Town, will assist in identifying strategic directions, priorities and actions for the Economic Development and Tourism Division. A report is expected to be finalized later this fall.
2016 Economic Strategy and Action Plan
The Town of Georgina retained the consulting firm, David Cash and Associates, to undertake an update of the Socioeconomic Strategy. Based on the research and information gathered throughout the public consultation process, the Economic Strategy and Action Plan has been developed. It recommends staff focus on the following four key strategies that have the most potential to create employment growth and increase the non-residential tax base:
- Support the expansion of the Town's existing key businesses and target new business investment.
- Enhance and diversify the tourism industry.
- Leverage the economic impact of agriculture, food, and agri-tourism.
- Boost Investment Readiness and ensure places to grow and expand.
These four strategies are contained within the Action Plan that sets out action items and activities that further these strategic directions. The document as approved by Council is 2016 Approved Economic Strategy and Action Plan (July 5, 2016).
Economic Development Strategy Consultant Presentation
2016 Economic Development Open House Presentation
2016 Economic Development Workshop Presentation
Economic Development Strategy Discussion Paper
Economic Development and Tourism Office: 905-476-4301 led@georgina.ca