From May 1 to 7, the City of Airdrie is taking part in Economic Development Week – an international effort to increase awareness of the work economic developers do to help entrepreneurs and enhance their local economies.
According to a press release from the City, Economic Development's work to support local businesses has been critical during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The economic development profession is intricately linked with business and economy," said Sara Chamberlain, team leader for Economic Development. “One of the most important roles we play as economic developers is to support entrepreneurs. That’s why we are taking the time, during this very challenging period for businesses, to acknowledge Economic Development Week. It’s an opportunity to remind our community that local businesses are the backbone of our economy and it’s essential we provide support to help them weather this storm.”
- INTERACTIVE MAP: See the latest COVID-19 statistics across Canada by province/territory on our interactive map.
The Economic Development team at the City has been actively supporting local businesses since the pandemic first hit mid-March, according to the press release.
“Working with community and industry partners, Economic Development has been continually providing information for businesses about provincial and federal government programs as well as learning opportunities through a list of business resources on the City’s website,“ the press release stated.
In late March, Airdrie businesses were asked to participate in a survey conducted by Economic Development to gauge the most critical challenges and concerns they face during the pandemic. The results of the survey – available online at airdrie.ca – will help guide the team as it continues to find ways to keep businesses operating in Airdrie.
One solution is airdrie.thingsthatareopen.com, a new online portal aimed at connecting Airdrie residents with businesses. The website – which is a centralized directory for all licensed businesses in Airdrie – offers residents an easy way to find out which of their favourite local businesses are still open.
