The County of Prince Edward is undertaking a digital Business Retention & Expansion (BR+E) survey to engage existing businesses across several sectors and identify needs, concerns or opportunities.
“COVID-19 has changed the landscape for many businesses in multiple sectors in our community,” says Mayor Steve Ferguson. “As we look at economic recovery, it’s important to understand what supports and services continue to be needed. Longer-term, if we are to successfully diversify our economy and create more opportunities for today’s youth, we also need to identify opportunities, and the investments and supports needed to make them a reality.”
The BR+E survey, which will be conducted online beginning on May 30, follows a template designed by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs (OMAFRA). It will be live until June 30. In 2023 the BR+E will cover several sectors, including:
- Agriculture
- Allied health, such as chiropractic medicine, massage therapy, etc.
- Hospitality
- Manufacturing
- Professional services
- Retail
- Trades/construction
Questions contained in the BR+E follow five themes. The survey seeks business owner or operator views on the County’s business climate and workforce, business development supports and community development needs, as well as the business’s future plans.
Data collected from the online survey will be analyzed by an advisory group made up of representatives from Career Edge, The County Foundation, Picton Business Improvement Area, PEC Chamber of Commerce, Prince Edward Learning Centre, Thrive PEC and Visit The County, with the goal of devising a strategic action plan.
New this year, the BR+E project will include a “Business Check-In,” in which municipal staff and partners are accompanied by elected officials for scheduled interviews focusing on five key questions. This is expected to take place in June 2023.
Using OMAFRA’s templated process means that results can be compared with other communities who have done BR+E projects across Ontario and can be combined to provide regional and provincial insights.
Click here to access the BR+E survey.