Economic Development Week, which kicked off yesterday, is an opportunity to highlight the work of economic development professionals and organizations who help grow local economies and improve the quality of life for citizens.
Becca Foord, economic development officer for the City of Estevan, said there are several development projects in the works, but legal constraints currently prevent the city from discussing them publicly.
She did, however, highlight one initiative: the lignite-to-graphite project.
The project is based out of George Washington University and led by Dr. Robert Wagner, who spoke at the C.R.I.T. Mineral Conference in April.
“He gave a really good overview of what he’s working on and how that project works,” said Foord. “Some days it doesn’t sound like a crazy science experiment—it’s something that is going to bring really big growth to our community when it comes to fruition.”
Foord said the economic development office is a frequent stop for community members looking for information.
“People stop in just to ask about community business incentives and how they could start a business,” she said. “I put them in touch with the proper people, or I might be able to provide them with the resources they need from my office.”
Interest in the community continues to grow, she added.
“We do have a lot of people that are interested in coming to Estevan, and I think it’s really great and really positive to see.”
She noted the province’s exploration of power plant upgrades and nuclear energy development as another reason for optimism.
“I think we’re in a really good position in this community to succeed and be positive.”
Visitors to the city often share glowing reviews of what they see.
“Sometimes when you’re on the outside looking in, you’re like, ‘Holy smokes, that place is amazing,’” she said. “But we see it every day and maybe take it for granted. We don’t always realize how awesome our community is.”
Foord said it’s important to recognize all types of success in Estevan.
“I think it’s really important that we keep celebrating all the wins in our community and all the businesses that are growing and finding ways to expand,” she said.
She added that long-standing businesses deserve just as much recognition as new ventures.
“It’s really important to celebrate new businesses, but also to celebrate the ones that have been here a long time—those who have created succession plans to pass them on to their children or co-workers. Those are things we really need to celebrate because we are thriving as a community.”
Find out more about Estevan's Economic Development Week events here.