Eastern Ontario Development Fund (EODF) Results
2004-2006
Summary Results
Click below to read full summaries of the various initiatives.
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The EODF was a $10 million regional pilot initiative that sought to promote socio-economic development in Eastern Ontario, encourage a competitive and diversified regional economy, and contribute to the successful development of businesses, job opportunities and sustainable, self-reliant communities. Introduced in the fall of 2004, the EODF was launched in response to efforts by the 15 Eastern Ontario Community Futures Development Corporations and the Wardens' Caucus. The federal government announced in the fall of 2004 they would support the EODF as a pilot project until March 31, 2006.
SD&G received $1.092 million of the $10 million earmarked for Eastern Ontario. The total economic impact of the program was significant. An additional $4.1 million was invested in EODF projects from clients and other community partners, bringing the combined investment to more than $5 million. One hundred and two local projects were funded creating 62 jobs.
In addition, more than 650 jobs were supported through a loan to a company that expedited the reconstruction of a building, making more work stations possible for employees. Another 450 existing jobs were maintained through the Skills Development Program. Employee training increased productivity through the acquisition of new skills. In many instances there would have been layoffs without training.
At this time, the federal government is evaluating the impact of the EODF pilot project. The SD&G Community Futures Development Corporation completed its own comprehensive assessment of all EODF initiatives in our region. The results are being used to support efforts to secure renewal of the EODF. We are working with all of our community partners to share with the federal government the innovative and impressive results achieved by the recipients of the EODF in the SD&G region and the City of Cornwall.
Skills Development Pilot Initiative
The initiative supports critical employee training initiatives within the manufacturing industry, while positioning the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry and the City of Cornwall with enhanced skills and a more competitive labour force.
Youth Retention and Attraction Pilot Initiative
The objective of the initiative is to attract develop and retain our skilled youth by providing opportunities to gain valuable work experience in the SD&G Region.
Local Initiatives Pilot Program
The program's objectives are to support incremental economic development projects throughout the United Counties of SD&G and the City of Cornwall.
Business Planning Pilot Initiative
The initiative assists local existing and new entrepreneurs with financial assistance to support the development of sound business plans, and/or opportunistic export and marketing plans with the intention of advancing their business strategies.
Access to Capital Pilot Initiative
The objective of the initiative is to remove barriers to long-term economic development in the SD&G region through the granting of interest free loans for building retrofit and renovations associated with new business development.
Community Capacity Building Pilot Initiative
The initiative is intended to support economic development activities that will create significant long-term community economic and social impact in the region of SD&G and Cornwall.
Regional Information & Communication Technology Pilot Program
The program was established to support and enhance the development and application of telecommunications and information technology in SD&G.
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