With 200 days remaining before the beginning of the celebrations, the important economic component of the World Acadian Congress 2014 is in full swing as more than 150 economic players met to discuss post-event development opportunities.
Having at heart a continued collaboration between northwestern New Brunswick, eastern Quebec and northern Aroostook County, as well as the development of this new common economic area, the organizers of the CMA 2014 have established an economic component to ensure a legacy to the territory of Acadia of the Lands and Forests after the Congress.
Within the programs for the Congress, the economic summit lists several initiatives which focus not only on the strengths of entrepreneurs but also on the opportunities the area offers as the gateway to the Canadian and U.S. markets. Among the seminars featured will be a conference on export and development of the North American and international markets, slated Aug. 19 and 20 in Fort Kent.
Other economic sessions will include: “Cooperation is winning!” on Aug. 18-19 at Dégelis, Que.; a business plan competition and gala in the style of “In the Eye of the Dragon,” Aug. 20 in Edmundston, N.B.; and an economic summit Aug. 21-22, also in Edmundston. Throughout the region Aug. 16-22, connections meetings with industry and professionals are planned, as well as visits to industry, educational institutions and research centers.
“The economic component is relying on this international scale event to be the platform for developing new business relationships, highlight the advantages of Acadia of the Lands and Forests and boost economic development and tourism,” said Émilien Nadeau, president of the CMA 2014.
Positioning itself as the Francophone hub of international trade could represent new opportunities for local entrepreneurs throughout the Acadian region and also offer unique market positioning.
“The implementation of this new economic space for us is a field filled with possibilities. Our company is located in Témiscouata, but with this new initiative launched by the Congrès Mondial Acadien 2014, we are now in step to show ourselves as a company of Acadia of the Lands and Forests,” said Ginette Bégin, co-owner of the Formmagerie Le Détour.
