The Town of Perth has launched a Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E) initiative aimed at supporting local businesses, strengthening relationships with the business community and helping shape future economic development priorities.
The BR+E program is a community-based economic development initiative used by municipalities across Ontario to gather input directly from local business owners and operators. Information collected will help guide future business supports, partnerships and economic development planning in Perth.
The project is funded in part by the Ontario Ministry of Rural Affairs through the Rural Ontario Development Program.
“Our government is proud to support local economic growth through the Rural Ontario Development Program,” said Lanark–Frontenac–Kingston MPP John Jordan. “This investment into the Town of Perth’s BR+E initiative will help strengthen relationships with local businesses, identify opportunities for growth and contribute to a vibrant local economy.”
Running through March 2027, the initiative will include consultations and confidential interviews with local businesses. The goal is to better understand the opportunities, challenges and needs facing Perth businesses while identifying ways the Town and community partners can support long-term success.
“When it comes to economic development and community development, it’s so important we have business voices guiding the way,” said Cathy McNally. “This BR+E project is a pivotal step to bring their ideas and feedback forward to move to long-term planning and success.”
The Town is also seeking volunteers to assist with outreach and interviews. Volunteers may include retired business owners, entrepreneurs, community leaders or residents with business or customer service experience. Training and project materials will be provided.
Volunteer recruitment and business outreach will begin this summer, followed by consultations in the fall. The findings will help inform future economic development priorities and action plans.
Businesses interested in participating, or residents interested in volunteering, can contact Barbara King, Business Retention and Expansion co-ordinator, at bking@perth.ca or 613-267-3311, ext. 2226.
More information is available at Engage.Perth.ca/BRE.
SOURCE: Town of Perth
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