Economic Development Action Plan
York Region’s Economic Development Action Plan 2020 to 2023 sets out a strategic course of action for the economic growth and prosperity of York Region.
The Economic Development Action Plan 2020 to 2023 builds on the successes of previous action plans while adapting to changes in the external environment. Achievements from the previous plan include incorporating YorkNet as a region-owned corporation that provides dark fibre solutions, facilitating 2,500 new or expanded jobs through business advisory programs, and launching the award-winning ‘York Link’ marketing campaign.
The plan is aligned with Regional Council’s strategic priorities as outlined in the 2019 - 2023 Strategic Plan; primarily the goal of increasing economic prosperity by fostering an environment that attracts businesses, grows employment opportunities and attracts talent. In developing the plan, the Region analysed background research and input received through stakeholder consultation to generate areas of focus. Key focus areas of business, innovation and talent emerged as priorities to develop the plan. A brief overview of these themes is provided below.
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Business: The Region will continue to provide business support such as direct-to-business advisory services, economic research, innovation initiatives and business placemaking and attraction marketing. The Region will also continue to deliver small business and entrepreneurship advisory support services in the Region’s northern six municipalities through the York Small Business Enterprise Centre.
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Innovation: Over the next four years the Region will continue to act as an enabler and funder of innovation. In its role as enabler, York Region will aim to spur innovation by bringing stakeholders within the network together to maximize innovation potential. The Region has also created two funds to facilitate innovative initiatives: the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fund and the Innovation Investment Fund.
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Talent: The Region will continue to support activities that attract and retain talent. This includes: acting as a Designated Referral Partner for the Federal Global Skills Program to help companies access international talent, undertaking post-secondary and business connection activities, and supporting a tech job board to help technology companies identify and secure talent.
An annual report on the progress made toward achieving results will be presented to Committee and Council in the spring of each year. The Action Plan has been circulated to area municipalities and various stakeholders.
View the Economic Action Plan 2020 - 2023 Appendices 1 | 2 | 3
