Kootenay Rockies Regional Economic Alliance releases report

(L to R) KRREA chair, Keith Powell, MP Jim Abbott and KRREA executive director, Sheila Gamble, announce the release of the extensive regional economic development strategy for the East Kootenay.

The Kootenay Rockies Regional Economic Alliance (KRREA) has announced the release of a report that will focus on the economic development of the entire East Kootenay region. KRREA chair, Keith Powell, said the recommendations contained within the extensive report are based on an in-depth study of all sectors of business and industry in the region. While the goals are long-term, there are immediate benefits in fostering partnerships between businesses and industry.

“Economic development is always a challenge—one that is essential and important to us, particularly at this time,” said Powell. “The concept behind this report is to co-ordinate and stimulate economic development, which helps the region grow and creates jobs.”

One of the first action steps in this regard is the Reverse Trade Show, an event that Powell said will give small businesses a chance to meet directly with large employers in the region to find out how to build business relationships or promote spinoff enterprises.

"The key to the economic success of the region is fostering connections at every level of business," said Powell.

In attendance was Kootenay MP Jim Abbott, who lent his support for the initiative. Abbott said federal funding has been key in creating a foundation for the economic development strategy being rolled out in the report.

The report is available online at www.KRREA.com.

KRREA was formed in 2005 as part of a provincial initiative that encouraged regional stakeholders within B.C. to form partnerships that could help benefit that region’s economic growth.