2025 Summit Encourages Attendees to Celebrate, Learn & Prepare for the Future

Kemptville – The 2025 Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit drew a sold-out crowd of business and political leaders to the North Grenville Municipal Centre on November 21 to pay tribute to the past while offering insight into the region’s economic progress and plans for continued growth.

“The Leeds Grenville Economic Development Summit continues to be a vital place where business and community leaders come together to focus on strengthening our local economy. It was a constructive day, highlighted by important discussions on trade tariffs and how businesses can navigate this new economic reality, demonstrating once again the valuable partnership we have in working together to create greater opportunities for our community,” said Michael Barrett, MP for Leeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands—Rideau Lakes.

“Now in its 17th year, the Summit continues to be a key forum to celebrate Leeds and Grenville’s economic momentum and focus on attracting new investment,” said Steve Clark, MPP for Leeds- Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes. “I’m proud that today included two great news announcements from our government to ensure we have the energy to power our growth and expand broadband to keep our businesses and residents connected.”

The year’s Summit recognized the Counties’ 175th anniversary with numerous past Wardens in attendance.

“It is remarkable the number of business and political leaders who gather at this event to collaborate for the common goal of sustaining and growing businesses in the region so we continue to enjoy the quality of lifestyle we have in Leeds Grenville,” said Warden Corinna Smith-Gatcke.

Warden Smith-Gatcke recognized past Wardens in attendance, including Howard French, Doug Struthers, Westport Mayor Robin Jones, Front of Yonge Mayor Roger Haley, and North Grenville Mayor Nancy Peckford.

The Hon. Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business, delivered the morning keynote, Protecting Ontario’s Small Businesses, Jobs, and Economy, addressing how the province is supporting entrepreneurs amid shifting global trade and tariff challenges.

The afternoon keynote speaker, Brock Dickinson of Stonebridge Solutions LP, engaged the audience with Steady Hands: Adapting to Economic Change, offering insight into how communities can thrive through uncertainty.

This year’s recipient of the Bill Thake Memorial Economic Development Leadership Award was presented to Brian Purcell of James Purcell Insurance Broker Ltd.

“It’s certainly a big honour,” he said. “A part of economic development for any community includes volunteer organizations. They provide activities and resources to local residents and also bring people into our communities regularly through various events. In turn, the people visiting get to experience all the services that our local businesses and attractions have to offer. They can also attract new people to the area who want to call your town home.”

Attendees explored a variety of timely topics, including The Rideau Canal: Looking Ahead, presented by Mark Brus, Manager of Operations, Rideau Canal, who shared insights on the evolution of the canal, its 200th Anniversary and its future as a national treasure.

Energy planning was also a key focus, with Kennan Ip and Brian Gordon from the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) outlining how communities across the St. Lawrence region play a vital role in the needs assessment scheduled for February 2026. Their work will help inform future energy infrastructure required to support regional development.

Jesse Mitchell, Director of Business Development at Strader-Ferris International, provided a practical update on cross-border trade, tariffs, and regulatory shifts affecting exporters and importers, including De-minimis changes.

The Summit concluded with Ann Weir, Economic Development Manager, presenting the latest regional update for Leeds Grenville and the 1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways brand, including progress from the Regional Economic Development through Immigration program, new tourism initiatives, and the launch of the 2026–2029 Strategic Areas of Focus.

“Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office are looking forward to working with businesses throughout the region. As part of the new strategy, we will be implementing several new digital marketing platforms. We are also thrilled to announce another tourism experience – Animal Friend Adventures as part of the 1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways tourism region,” she said.

The Economic Development Summit is hosted by the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Economic Development Office in partnership with Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands-Rideau Lakes MP Michael Barrett, Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes MPP Steve Clark, the Eastern Workforce Innovation Board, and the 1000 Islands, Grenville and Valley Heartland Community Futures Development Corporations.