June 22, 2016 – Charlottetown, PE – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

PEI communities possess unique and valuable characteristics. Residents in these areas want to maintain the qualities that define them and at the same time seek economic opportunities that will ensure long-term growth and sustainability. For more than 20 years the Central Development Corporation (CDC) has been facilitating economic development in Prince Edward Island. The CDC works in partnership with communities and businesses to nurture community growth and encourage new investment.

The Honourable Wayne Easter, Member of Parliament for Malpeque, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), and the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Economic Development and Tourism today announced funding to support CDC’s new Community Capacity Fund. ACOA, through its Business Development Program is supporting this project with a $175,313 contribution. The Government of PEI will add a $58,437 investment through Innovation PEI.

The Community Capacity Fund will focus on supporting not-for-profit organizations to secure expertise to allow them to build capacity and make sound business decisions with respect to community economic development initiatives.

Quotes

“Rural communities have similar goals as their urban counterparts; they want employment opportunities, solid community infrastructure and long-term sustainability. The key is to have the necessary research, analysis and planning in order to achieve these goals. I am pleased to announce the Government of Canada’s support through ACOA, to the CDC as the group continues its great work to spur business investment and foster vibrant communities.”

– The Honourable Wayne Easter, Member of Parliament for Malpeque on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

“Our Government is committed to ensuring Islanders are able to live in sustainable communities that offer services and supports and a quality of life conducive for future generations. Today’s announcement will help community organizations make strategic investments and decisions, enhance economic growth, and build strong and vibrant communities across the Island.”

– The Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Economic Development and Tourism

“This is a great opportunity for not-for profit organizations to access assistance in the planning and development of strategic projects, infrastructure, feasibility studies or research. The new fund will support efforts to attract new business investment and revenue streams, encourage collaborative efforts among similar organizations and hopefully foster new sector development across PEI.”

– Nicole Warren, Executive Director, Central Development Corporation

Contacts

Christopher Brooks
Acting Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-566-7569

Lucas MacArthur
Communications Assistant
Department of Economic Development and Tourism
902-368-5535

Nicole Warren
Executive Director
Central Development Corporation
Tel: 1-902-887-3400
Fax:1-902-887-2400