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 TORONTO,ON – The Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) has presented Elgin County with two awards in recognition of its exceptional Economic Development Strategy and Action plan for 2011-2014, and its excellent tourism website promoting visual arts attractions throughout the County.
This is yet another success, following awards won by Elgin County for outstanding marketing excellence in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011. The EDCO Awards, presented at the EDCO Annual Awards Conference, recognize Ontario’s best economic development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, and the year’s most influential leaders.
Warden Bill Walters, accepting the award, said “We are pleased and proud of the Economic Development Strategy, and Arts Trail Website. They are testaments to the great work done by the Economic Development and Tourism Services Department in the growth and support of the business community in the County.”
Elgin County’s Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan for 2011 to 2014 developed in partnership with Millier Dickinson Blais and Yfactor builds on the department’s previous initiatives while adding a fresh and contemporary new focus that incorporates creative economy attraction and economic gardening initiatives. The overall goal of the new strategy is to attract and retain talented and innovative people and businesses. The strategy is a “hands-on” document that clearly describes the most effective tactics to be implemented to achieve its specific goals.
Recognizing the potential of arts as a driver of tourism, Elgin County developed and launched a cohesive Arts Trail to connect artists, artisans, and art galleries throughout the County. Participation has already exceeded expectations with 12 businesses having become members. The Elgin Arts Trail brand and website, also designed in conjunction with Yfactor are now live, efficiently and effectively marketing Elgin County's art attractions.
“Elgin County’s pro-active commitment to economic and tourism development demonstrates clear focus and leadership. The County’s staff and council have worked diligently and consistently to achieve remarkable results.” says Yfactor CEO Anya Codack.
The website invites tourists as well as local residents to visit these attractions and features each member of the Elgin Arts Trail program. It also incorporates the Tourism Ytool which makes it easy for website visitors to find out about events, restaurants or hotels and to quickly create individual itineraries for their upcoming visit to Elgin County. Interactive maps make locating the destinations effortless for prospective tourists.
Visit the Arts Trail website and plan a visit to experience Elgin’s diverse visual arts community for yourself!
For more information please contact:
Katherine Thompson
Marketing Communications Coordinator
Elgin County
phone: 519-631-1460 x180
email: kthompson@elgin-county.on.ca
Anya Codack
CEO
Yfactor Inc.
www.yfactor.com
twitter.com/yfactorinc
phone: 416-977-9724 x 509
email: acodack@yfactor.com
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