A look back at 2020 and what’s to come in 2021 was the focus of Thursday’s meeting of the Quinte Economic Development Commission.
CEO Chris King acknowledged COVID-19’s impacts on their operations for most of last year but noted that despite the challenges, the Bay of Quinte Region did experience some positive activities with new investments, expansions and hiring.
King said COVID did not change the mission of the QEDC but they had to adjust how they worked to attract new business and retain existing industry – practices that will likely continue through much of this year.
In his year end report, King also commended many local businesses for stepping up to produce hand sanitizer, PPE and other safety equipment in the early days of COVID and employers who focused on keeping their employees and customers safe while continuing to operate.
He noted the organization was able to save money in 2020 since travel and meeting expenses were down due to the pandemic.
King said they are still fielding many inquiries about investment in the area and while there is minimal available building inventory, they are looking to attract industry to greenfield areas.
The QEDC next meets on February 23 for its AGM.
