Hyper Local: Economic Development

Join former winners of the EDCO Bright Ideas Competition—Laura Thompson, Sushmitha Thirumalaivasan, and our host, Mason Ainsworth for an inspiring deep dive into one of Ontario's premier programs for economic development innovators.As former participants who turned bold ideas into recognized successes, we break down everything you need to know about the Bright Ideas Competition, hosted by the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO). This annual challenge invites EDCO members to collaborate in teams, tackle real-world economic development issues of their own choosing, and propose innovative solutions—complete with mentorship, reports, pitch videos, and the chance to present at the EDCO Annual Conference and Showcase.In this episode, we cover:Personal stories from the winners:Sushmitha reflects on her recent win—what the journey felt like, the biggest lessons learned, and how the experience continues to fuel her future career in economic development.Laura shares insights from one of the program's beginnings, how it shaped her professional path, and the long-term impact on her work in the field.Why you should get involved: Hear our collective take on the unique value of participating: building skills, expanding networks, testing creative approaches, contributing to stronger Ontario communities, and advancing your professional credentials.Brainstorming the future: We toss around exciting, forward-thinking ideas that the next cohort could explore to address emerging economic development challenges.Whether you're an economic development practitioner, student, or EDCO member considering your first Bright Ideas entry, this episode offers practical advice, motivation, and real-world inspiration from people who've been there and succeeded.Additional Information:Registration: Open now until Friday, April 10, 2026 (extended deadline!). It's easy to register—you must be an EDCO member to participate. Log in to your EDCO membership account at www.edco.on.ca, navigate to the Professional Development dropdown, and click on Bright Ideas Competition. This page has all the details about the competition along with the direct registration link.Cost: $50 (plus HST).Teams: Each participant will be assigned to a team. If you have someone you'd like to work with, please include this in an email to Stephanie Crilly at edco@edco.on.ca—EDCO will do their best to accommodate requests.Competition Kick-Off: Week of May 4, 2026, with a kick-off meeting.Topic: Each team develops their own relevant topic (focused on critical, innovative issues in Ontario economic development). The first report—a short proposal document (less than 1000 words)—is due June 19, 2026, outlining:A clear definition of the problem to be addressedA proposed methodology for tackling the issueA workplan and timeline, including meeting dates with your group and mentorWhy the topic is relevant to economic development and how it can help others solve similar issuesMentors: Each team is assigned a mentor from the Bright Ideas committee to provide guidance, answer questions, and support throughout the process.Guests:Laura Thompson – LinkedInSushmitha Thirumalaivasan – LinkedInNow some work for YOU! Tag someone you think should join the Bright Ideas Competition! Or put an interesting topic in the comments to get them expired!Also, some Big News! Hyper Local just levelled up and is now supported by Storied Places Media, which specializes in producing audio and video podcasts for economic development organizations. If you have been thinking about starting a podcast but don’t have the time or know-how, now is the time to get started, and Storied Places Media can help. Learn more about their services and clients at storiedplaces.ca.#HyperLocalPodcast #EconomicDevelopment #Innovation #BrightIdeas #EDCO #OntarioBusiness #ProfessionalDevelopment #BrightIdeas2026 #Ontario #MEDI #EcDev

SPECIAL EPISODE ALERT: 15 Micro Interviews from the 69th EDCO!I just returned from the 69th Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) Conference in Toronto, where I decided to do something different.For the first time ever on Hyper Local: Economic Development in Ontario - Podcast. We went fully on-the-spot with 60-second (or less) micro-interviews!From Toronto to Kenora, Sarnia to Collingwood, County of Brant to Huron County, economic developers shared what’s happening right now in their communities. We heard about:• Revamping strategic plans.• Implementing Community Improvement Plans.• Downtown revitalization projects.• Hosting the next Ontario BIA Association conference.• And so much more!The format was simple and powerful:• What is your name?• Where are you from?• What’s something interesting going on in your community right now?The energy was electric, the stories were inspiring, and it reminded me why this work matters. Every community has something exciting happening, and every voice deserves to be heard.A huge thank you to every person who shared their time, smiled, and shared in 60 seconds or less. You made this special episode possible!In order:• Allyson Pele, The City of Kenora.• Brandon Webb, Ec. D, County of Brant.• Chris Watson, County of Huron.• Dylan Tamlin, City of St. Catharines.• Eric Wood, City of Toronto.• Evan Vatri, Municipality of Kincardine.• Felicia Krista (Sovereign), Municipality of North Middlesex.• Matt Reaume, Municipality of Chatham-Kent.• Matthew Slotwinski, Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership.• Prerna Sharma, Corporation of the Town of Collingwood.• Robyn Mulder Ec.D., Township of Wellington North.• Sabah Kazmi, City of Burlington.• Kassandra Brownridge, The Corporation of the Town of Ajax.• Steve Antunes, City of Elliot Lake.• Will Radix, Corporation of Haldimand County.To our listeners:If you loved this format, drop a comment below, send me a message, or share this post. Want to be featured next year? Come find me at EDCO’s 70th Annual Conference in 2027 — or message me on LinkedIn anytime.Let’s keep highlighting communities across Ontario and beyond!Which micro story stood out to you?Cheers to more voices, more stories, and more thriving communities!#HyperLocalPodcast #EDCO2026 #EconomicDevelopment #OntarioStrong #CommunityStories #RuralOntario #DowntownRevitalization #EcDev #MicroPod #Innovation  Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO)

Jessica Linthorne is powering the future of Ontario’s energy economy. As President & CEO at the Nuclear Innovation Institute (NII), she’s at the forefront of connecting nuclear innovation with economic development, job creation, and community impact across the province.In this energized episode of Hyper Local, we dive into:• What the Nuclear Innovation Institute (NII) is and its powerful link to economic development.• The massive opportunities new nuclear brings to Ontario, and the Nuclear Innovation Institute’s recent report in partnership with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.• Why 60% of Ontario’s energy baseload is nuclear, SMRs, and why the world is watching.• The critical role of medical isotopes, operational excellence, and understanding the energy sector.• Emerging leadership, emotional intelligence, collaboration, adaptability, and the importance of “being where your feet are”.• The importance of having passion for the public sector, knowing the players, and always reaching beyond to learn more.Jessica’s message is clear: with a collaborative mindset, strong relationships, and a focus on impact, we can shape Ontario’s energy future together. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about innovation, energy security, economic growth, and building thriving communities!Tune in now and keep the energy going!Now some work for YOU! What is something you learned about the energy sector today? Put it in the comments and let's show the power of nuclear!#HyperLocalPodcast #EconomicDevelopment #NuclearInnovation #OntarioEnergy #SMRs #Leadership #Collaboration #EnergySector #EcDev #HyperLocalPod #Ontario #Nuclear #OCC

Nathan Ohle is leading global economic development conversations. As President & CEO of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), the world’s largest association of economic developers, he is steering the organization into its historic 100th year with vision, collaboration, and bold ideas.From his early days as a Community Relations Intern with the Detroit Pistons to Senior Advisor at the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration, Nathan’s career has been defined by building bridges, driving recovery, and putting people first. Now at IEDC, he’s championing the next generation of leaders, expanding the Economic Recovery Corps (EDC), and leading the charge from competition to true collaboration.In this milestone Hyper Local episode, we dive into:IEDC’s 100th anniversary and what it means for the global Economic Development community.The State of the Field survey and how success is measured.Moving from competition to collaboration — Nathan met with 525 organizations in 2025 alone!Showing up at other tables, giving back, and connecting across sectors.Advice for the next generation of economic developers.The emerging leaders' affinity group.And much more!Nathan’s message is clear: relationships, curiosity, and showing up matter more than ever. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about economic development, global partnerships, and shaping the future of communities.Thank you to EDCO Executive Director for this episode's mystery question: “What is something you are proud of that you never talk about?”Now some work for YOU! What is something you learned today that could help others tomorrow? Put it in the comments and let's learn together.#HyperLocalPodcast #EconomicDevelopment #IEDC #GlobalEcDev #Collaboration #Leadership #100YearsStrong #Communities #EDCO #EcDev #Ontario #Canada #MunicipalLeadership

Kate Burns Gallagher is a political and economic development powerhouse! From her start as an Executive Assistant to MP Joe Preston at the Parliament of Canada, to shaping economic development and tourism in the County of Elgin, Kate now leads as Executive Director of the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (WOWC) where she is uniting 15 upper and single tier municipalities in Southwestern Ontario, advocating for their collective interest, and supporting the region’s 117 municipalities, 1.6 million residents, and over 250,000 businesses!In this Hyper Local episode, we dive deep into collaboration and impact:WOWC’s mission, members, and key projects How economic developers can get involved and support WOWC’s workWhat Kate’s hearing from Western Ontario municipalities Discussions on the recent AMO (1-year-later report), housing, homelessness (up 30% in rural areas), and budget pressuresThe critical art of being a bridge between elected officials and staff. With practical tips on early, consistent communication, understanding perspectives, and collaborationAdvice for entering the municipal/government sector: Top 3 tips, including discussion around- “With great power comes great responsibility.”WOWC’s vision for 2026, including the upcoming ROMA Conference and goals around vulnerable sector checks and Broadband expansionKate’s message is clear: collaboration is the theme of the year. Working together to shape the future, not just respond to it. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about rural advocacy, municipal leadership, and building stronger communities!Thank you to Marc Champagne for your inspiration for this episode's mystery question: “What is your word/intention for this year?”Now some work for YOU! Are you attending ROMA next week? If so, what is the number one thing you are looking to get out of it? #EconomicDevelopment #WOWC #Communities #EDCO #EcDev #Ontario #Canada #HyperLocalPodcast #EconomicDevelopment #RuralOntario #Collaboration #MunicipalLeadership #ROMACconference

Downtown matters, and Rachel Braithwaite is leading the charge with Canada’s largest provincial business improvement area association. As Executive Director of the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA), she leads with enthusiasm, has the fantastic ability to take small ideas and turn them into significant events, dares to dream big, and supports dynamic downtowns across the province. In this Hyper Local episode, we unpack:• Activating communities and building a strong BIA.• OBIAA’s mission, programs, and its upcoming conference.• Construction mitigation BIA toolkits.• Business Development Centers and having resources all in one place.• BIA Awards and Community Improvement Plans (CIP’s).• Actionable advice for economic developers on how to engage their BIA’s. • Christmas shopping, supporting local, and BIA board elections.• Listen for more!Rachel’s insights are a must-listen for anyone passionate about downtowns, building community, and making your Main Street shine bright! We also asked Belinda Wick-Graham’s mystery question: “Imagine you just found a suitcase with a million dollars earmarked for ‘economic development’—but there’s no note on how to spend it. Where would you invest it to make the biggest impact, and what’s the quirky or unexpected project you’d secretly fund on the side?”Now some work for YOU! What is the coolest event you have attended in a downtown area, and where was it? Please put it in the comments and let's keep the conversation going!#EconomicDevelopment #OBIAA #Communities #EDCO #EcDev #Ontario #Canada #DowntownsMatter #Downtown #MainStreet #MainStreetMatters #PodcastRecommendation #HyperLocalPodcast

Stephanie Crilly is a relationship master steering Canada’s Largest Provincial Economic Development Association forward. As Executive Director of the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO), she leads with passion, understands the importance of relationships, and continually inspires us to make a difference in our communities. In this Hyper Local episode, we unpack:EDCO’s mission, programs, and upcoming conference.Building relationships and cross-partnerships for community impact.Monthly trade and tariff roundtables.Actionable advice for new economic developers. Finding your passion, investing in education, and grabbing opportunities.Executive Director tips.Listen for more!Stephanie’s insights are a must-listen for anyone passionate about economic development, collaboration, and making a difference in your community! Now some work for YOU! What’s one incredible memory you have from your involvement with EDCO? Please put it in the comments and let's keep the conversation going!#HyperLocalPodcast #EconomicDevelopment #MEDJCT #TalentDevelopment #InvestOntario #EDCO #EcDev #Ontario #Canada #Partnerships #TIO #OBIAA

Jens-Michael Schaal is championing global expansion for Ottawa's thriving tech ecosystem. As Vice President - Global Expansion at Invest Ottawa, he provides strategic leadership to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), drive business retention and expansion (BRE), boost international trade, and draw top talent to Canada's G7 capital—the highest concentration of tech talent in North America. From his roots in Germany to his time as a Canadian Diplomat, in New York City in the United States, and in New Delhi, India, he has fostered partnerships across Canada and beyond. He is passionate about problem-solving, other cultures, and making a difference at the local level. In this episode, we discuss:• Attracting FDI and talent to your community.• The importance of cultural curiosity, being reliable, and having a service mindset. • Ottawa-Gatineau’s Defence Sector Strategy and its new Defence Innovation Hub.• Canadian diplomatic relations.• Consider Canada City Alliance (CCCA), The Executive Committee Canada (TEC), and the Ottawa Board of Trade.• Advice for economic developers.• The EDCO Election.• Listen for more!Jens-Michael’s global experience is a must-listen for anyone passionate about FDI, tech hubs, or strategic talent attraction. We even talked about the most important thing he has learned internationally and how it can be applied in your community today!Now some work for YOU! What’s one tip for attracting international talent to your community? Please put it in the comments and let's keep the conversation going!#HyperLocalPodcast #EconomicDevelopment #OttawaTech #FDI #TalentAttraction #InvestOttawa #EDCO #EcDev #Ontario #Canada #GlobalExpansion

Tyson McMann is championing innovative policies to support economic development. As the Business Development Consultant – Food and Beverage at the City of Hamilton, he supports real-world problem-solving for his community through innovative policy approaches. As Co-Chair of the Economic Developers Council of Ontario's Bright Ideas committee, he encourages economic developers to think differently, shine brightly, and develop toolkits and ideas to benefit the industry and our communities. From Tyson’s start at the Town of Amherstburg, to MDB Insight, and the City of Guelph, he has fostered a deep passion for helping others through economic development.In this episode, we discuss:• “The Wrong Government for the Job: Why Municipalities are ill-Equipped to Handle the Infrastructure Deficit.”• How Hamilton is 70%-80% Rural with 679 farms and the largest sugar refinery in Canada!• Advice for attending conferences to get the most out of your experience.• EDCO Board Elections.• Listen for more!Tyson’s unique policy projects are a must-listen for anyone passionate about agricultural business, policy analysis, or strategic thinking. We even talked about paid internships!Now some work for YOU! What is one conference tip you have? Please put it in the comments and let's keep the conversation going!#HyperLocalPodcast #EconomicDevelopment #Hamilton #UrbanandRuralCommunities #EDCO #EcDev #Ontario #Canada #AgraBusisness #Farms #Tourism #AgraTourism

Clare Barnett is a champion of international economic development. As the Director of Business Growth Services in Toronto, the largest City in Canada and as a Board member on the International Economic Development Council and the Organization of Women in International Trade, she is having the conversations that matter. Clare brings a depth of experience from her roles at Invest Brampton, the Ontario Cabinet Office, the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, and Invest Ontario. Her expertise spans the public and private sectors, including International business development, attracting foreign direct investment, communications, place branding, marketing and leading inclusive economic development initiatives. In this episode, we discuss:• The best strategies for dealing with hostile stakeholders.• Toronto’s TradeTO program.• Toronto’s AI Economic Development Strategy.• Empowering women in economic development.• EDCO Board Elections.• Listen for more!Clare's perspective is a must-listen for anyone passionate about empowering their teams, economic development, or what's going on in the City of Toronto. We even talked about economic development in space!Now some work for YOU! What is one book that has helped shape your career? Please put it in the comments and let's keep the conversation going!#HyperLocalPodcast #EconomicDevelopment #Toronto #UrbanCommunities #EDCO #EcDev #Ontario #Canada #InternationalEconomicDevelopment #IEDC #OWIT #PodcastRecommendation

Emily Baillie is a dynamic AI & Marketing Trainer who’s empowered over 4,000 professionals to work smarter, not harder. As a Marketing & AI Strategist at Compass Content Marketing and an excellent professor at Humber College and McMaster University (Where she taught me!), Emily helps businesses, Economic Developers, and nonprofits across Canada harness AI and digital marketing tools to save time, boost creativity, and keep the human touch at the core. With clients such as United Way BC, the Canadian Marketing Association, the County of Simcoe, and Destination Northern Ontario, her hands-on, customized training sessions on AI, social media strategy, and tools like ChatGPT are transforming how teams operate!In this episode, we dive into:• Blending AI and digital marketing.• The role of AI in economic development and its potential for communities.• Real-world success stories from organizations leveraging AI effectively.• Emerging digital trends shaping the future of marketing.• Practical advice for international students to get involved in Economic Development.Emily’s passion for making technology work for people makes this a must-listen for Economic Developers, marketers, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about AI’s role in local growth. Tune in to learn about the importance of integrating cutting-edge tools into your work without losing the human spark!#HyperLocalPodcast #EconomicDevelopment #AI #AmplifiedIndividuals #EDCO #EDAC #EcDev #Ontario #HumberCollege #McMasterUniversity #StayHuman #PodcastRecommendation

Belinda Wick-Graham is a trailblazer in economic and community development. As the Director of Economic and Community Development for the Town of Minto and a past president of the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO), Belinda’s passion for investment attraction, business development, and downtown revitalization has earned the Town of Minto the prestigious Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) Business Attraction and Retention Award, the Award of Excellence in Business Retention, Recruitment and Expansion from the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA), and the Marketing Canada Award by the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC). Her innovative work in Minto has and continues to transform the town into a vibrant hub for growth and opportunity.In this episode, we explore:• The award-winning “Move to Minto” campaign.• Tackling challenges with absentee landowners to strengthen local economies.• Getting back to basics: practical approaches to community development.• The “Tour the Town” initiative.• The “Pitch It” Business Competition, fostering entrepreneurship in Minto.• Leveraging Community Improvement Plans (CIPs) for sustainable growth.• The “Rob and Duplicate” strategy: adapting proven ideas for local success.• Listen for more!Belinda’s insights are a goldmine for anyone interested in revitalizing small towns, boosting local business, or building stronger communities. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation!#HyperLocalPodcast #EconomicDevelopment #SouthernOntario #RuralCommunities #EDCO #EDAC #EcDev #Ontario #TownOfMinto #MoveToMinto #Downtown #PodcastRecommendation

Brock Dickinson is a true visionary in the fields of economic development and entrepreneurship. As Vice Chair of Invest Ontario, Partner at Stonebridge Solutions LP, Director of the Economic Development Program at the University of Waterloo, and Executive in Residence at Innovate Niagara, Brock’s expertise is unmatched. With a career spanning financing for large-scale projects, cleantech, international trade, and technology-based economic development, he’s worked in over 30 countries, delivered keynote speeches across Canada, and is passionate about making the world a better place through problem-solving and knowledge-sharing.In this dynamic episode, we dive into:• A once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape local economies.• The "British Railway Trap" and its lessons for modern development.• Navigating global trade, demographic shifts, and supply chain challenges.• The role of rural communities in a rapidly changing world.• Insights into AI, the United Nations, and effective local decision-making.• Listen for more!Brock’s global perspective and practical wisdom make this a can’t-miss episode for anyone interested in economic innovation, community growth, or global trends. Tune in to hear how we can build stronger, smarter, and more connected communities!#HyperLocalPodcast #EconomicDevelopment #NorthernOntario #RuralCommunities #EDCO #EcDev #Ontario #Waterloo #UniversityOfWaterloo #PodcastRecommendation

Stephanie Pagnucco is a powerhouse in economic development and destination marketing. As President of the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) and Director of Corporate Communications and Stakeholder Relations at Sault College of Applied Arts and Technology, she is at the table making a difference. Stephanie brings a wealth of experience from her roles at Destination Northern Ontario, the City of Sault Ste. Marie, and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. Her expertise spans brand development, digital content promotion, media coordination, and building lasting stakeholder partnerships that put Northern Ontario on the map.In this episode, we unpack:• The vital role of collaboration in Northern and rural communities.• Real-world examples of successful partnerships that turn challenges into opportunities.• Practical advice for emerging economic developers navigating today's landscape.• Listen for more!Stephanie's insights are a must-listen for anyone passionate about local innovation, community building, and amplifying underrepresented voices. Whether you're in economic development, marketing, or love stories about positive change, this one's for you!#HyperLocalPodcast #EconomicDevelopment #NorthernOntario #RuralCommunities #EDCO #EcDev #Ontario #DestinationMarketing #PodcastRecommendation