Cobourg, ON (February 10, 2025) – The Town of Cobourg is pleased to announce the Economic Development Department received an award of excellence from the Economic Developers Council of Ontario for Workforce Development and Talent Attraction – Rural category.

Each year, the Economic Developers Council of Ontario recognizes and celebrates excellence in the field of economic development across the province at its President’s Dinner. This year’s event and award presentation was held on Thursday, February 6 at the Westin Harbour Castle in Toronto.

Cobourg’s Economic Development Department and the Venture13 partners launched several workforce programs in 2024 focused on youth and the young population. Programs such as the Skilled Trades Career Day, Policetech Accelerator Pitch Competition – Youth Edition, Skilled Trades Bootcamp, and youth STEM camps were featured in the submission.

“I’m deeply honoured to accept this award of excellence on behalf of the Town of Cobourg. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of the economic development team and partners at the Venture13 Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre,” said Daniel Van Kampen, Manager of Economic Development. “The Town’s Directors and Council are very supportive and have helped to foster an environment of creativity where ideas can be explored and tested.”

In June 2023, Council approved its first Economic Development and Venture13 Strategy and Action Plan. The economic development team is actively implementing this strategy through to 2028.

About the Venture13 Innovation & Entrepreneurship Centre
The Venture13 Innovation & Entrepreneurship Centre serves as a vital regional catalyst for emerging businesses and innovative ideas. Venture13 has emerged as a hub for knowledge-based ventures, powered by a collaborative ecosystem of visionary partners, including nventure, Town of Cobourg, Cobourg Police Services, and Northumberland Manufacturers’ Association. In collaboration with community partners and industry thought leaders, Venture13 provides flexible co-working space and educational programming designed to equip entrepreneurs and local business professionals along their growth pathway. For more information visit www.venture13.ca.

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