Economic Growth Starts Here: 2025 Partners for Progress Recap

📷  Cape Breton Partnership

The 2025 Partners for Progress Conference, hosted by the Cumberland Business Connector, took place April 29–30, at Fox Harb’r Resort. This premier economic development event was proudly supported by Invest Nova Scotia in collaboration with the Government of Nova Scotia.

From Innovation to Export

The conference convened business leaders, policymakers, and economic development professionals from across Nova Scotia’s Regional Enterprise Networks (RENs) to explore strategic opportunities in growth, productivity, export expansion, and innovative financing.

 Conference sessions included:

• Market Diversification & Export Growth - Uncovering new international trade opportunities in the EU, UK, Indo-Pacific and other markets.
• Making Housing More Affordable & Available - Exploring how reducing regulatory barriers and increasing public-private collaboration can create more housing options.
• Renewable Energy Growth & Exports – Discovering how Nova Scotia is leading the way in offshore wind, geothermal energy, and green hydrogen for a cleaner future.
• Innovation & Growth in Strategic Sectors – Learning how industries like agriculture and ocean technology are evolving and thriving in an innovation-driven economy.
• Productivity, Trade & Prosperity – Top economists discussing emerging strengths and challenges in regional trade.

Keynote speakers for the conference included David Campbell, President of Jupia Consultants, Kevin Toth, President of Fox Harb’r Golf Resort and Spa, and Lana Asaff, Senior Economist, Atlantic Economic Council. 

The Honourable Colton LeBlanc, Minister of Growth and Development also shared valuable insights from his work in advancing the province’s priorities, including:

• Enhancing Nova Scotia’s competitiveness and business climate
• Supporting housing development and sustainable growth
• Fostering entrepreneurship and access to venture capital
• Driving innovation across strategic sectors

Reach New Markets

Two team members from Invest Nova Scotia shared their expertise at the conference.

Bridget Archibald, Manager of Market Development, discussed strategies for managing export risk and highlighted how our programs support Nova Scotia businesses in expanding internationally.

At Invest Nova Scotia, we know that for companies, those very first steps in exploring new markets are risky. They take up valuable resources of time, money, and focus. These are things that most companies don’t have to spare in these tumultuous times. So, we provide support to break down these barriers.

Bridget Archibald 
Manager, Market Development
Invest Nova Scotia

 Bob Pelley, Senior Corporate Advisor, moderated a panel on innovative financing solutions, exploring investment opportunities and capital initiatives in various regions of Nova Scotia. The session covered alternative funding sources, investment networks, and strategies to increase access capital for businesses.

“Explore beyond traditional financing options and connect with economic development organizations—they can offer fresh ideas and creative solutions you may not have considered.” 

Bob Pelley
Senior Corporate Advisor
Invest Nova Scotia

Take-Aways

Regional Collaboration is Crucial

Strong partnerships among Nova Scotia’s Regional Enterprise Networks, local governments, and economic development agencies - the collaborations that drive innovation, growth, and lasting change in local economies. 

Innovation in Financing is Gaining Momentum

Access to capital remains a major challenge, especially in regions across the province. The conference spotlighted innovative financing solutions—like community investment funds and blended capital approaches—that can unlock new opportunities for local businesses.

Export Readiness and Global Engagement are Priorities

Export growth is a clear focus for Nova Scotia. Sessions emphasized how businesses can reduce risk and leverage provincial programs to compete in global market sectors. 

Place-Based Economic Development is Effective

Customized, place-based strategies—whether in the Valley, Cape Breton, or the South Shore—are proving effective in leveraging regional strengths like tourism, agriculture, and ocean industries.

The Role of Data and Storytelling in Economic Growth

Data-driven decision-making combined with compelling narratives is helping regions define their value and attract investment. Several RENs are focusing on telling their regional economic stories more effectively.

Continued Support from Provincial Partners is Vital

Ongoing support from the Government of Nova Scotia and Invest Nova Scotia was recognized as a driver for aligning local efforts with provincial priorities, especially in infrastructure, innovation, and business growth.

Celebrate Impact

Celebrate the incredible impact that economic development organizations and professionals have in their communities.

And that’s a wrap — Partners for Progress 2025 was a great success! The Cumberland Business Connector was proud to welcome Nova Scotians from across the province to our region for this engaging and insightful Economic Development Conference. A heartfelt thank you to all our presenters, moderators, and keynote speakers — your expertise, perspectives, and stories were both inspiring and thought-provoking.” 

Cumberland Business Connector

Ready to reach new markets? Discover the exciting trade opportunities and explore the programs and services designed to support your export journey.

For more information, please contact your Regional Business Development Advisor.