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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY AND UPDATE
Hany Kirolos, Director of Business Development provided an update concerning Economic Development activity detailing the development of an entrepreneurial portal, the Barrie Ambassador Program and a Foreign Direct Investment Plan. He noted that the interim Strategic Plan for Invest Barrie and the related action plan would be presented in the next few months. Mr. Kirolos advised that the Greater Barrie Enterprise Centre Office (GBEC) has relocated to the 3rd Floor of City Hall.
Stephanie Schlicter, Manager of the Greater Barrie Enterprise Centre and Business Development Officer (GBEC) outlined the services provided by the Centre. She detailed outreach initiatives which include working with the existing business base in Barrie; researching best practises from other communities; corporate cold calling; business growth challenges and opportunities and survey/feedback from sectors including trends and challenges. Ms. Schlicter noted that the survey will provide the opportunity to improve communications and sector mapping, as well as to discuss the needs and future opportunities with businesses.
Mr. Kirolos discussed the Foreign Direct Investment Policy and commented that Barrie is still building on business relationships established during the China Business Trip in 2013. He noted that in May, the Chinese Real Estate Board is hosting an event with over 1500 attendees to discuss investment opportunities in Canada.