Bridge recognized for influence on local economic development

TORONTO – Town of Minto Mayor George Bridge was recognized at a gathering of Ontario leaders in the field of economic development here last week.

Bridge received the Community Influencer of the Year Award at the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) Awards on April 7.

“This category reflects the growing importance of positive influence within the economic development profession, recognizing elected officials who have made a significant impact on their peers, the industry, their community and/or the overall influence of economic development,” said Belinda Wick-Graham, Minto’s director of economic and community development and a member of EDCO’s board.

The award was one of a number presented as EDCO recognized excellence in economic development initiatives and leaders from Ontario communities during the 65th annual EDCO conference President’s Dinner.

With a membership of over 1,100, EDCO is Canada’s largest provincial professional economic development association.

Communities made submissions for 88 projects commencing in 2021 across the province. The awards celebrated winning communities of all sizes and for a variety of economic development projects: from tourism products to planning strategies.

“The EDCO awards program recognizes leaders in economic development and their unique ideas and initiatives,” said EDCO president Rob Nolan.

“Sharing these award-winning projects with the community provides an opportunity to learn and grow economic development across Ontario.”

A complete list of 2021 award recipients can be found on the EDCO website at www.edco.on.ca.