2015-annual-report

ECDEV 

2015 

ANNUAL 

REPORT 

1 

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WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation Annual Report 2015 

Amherstburg Essex Kingsville Lakeshore LaSalle Leamington Pelee Island Tecumseh Windsor 

Table of Contents 

Message from the Chair of the Board ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 4 

Message from the Mayor, City of Windsor .................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 

Message from the Warden, County of Essex ................................................................................................................................................................................ 6 

Message from the Chief Executive Officer (Interim) ............................................................................................................................................................. 7 

2015 Highlights: Business Development ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 8 

2015 Performance Metrics ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 12 

2015 Highlights: Small Business Centre ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 15 

2015 Highlights: Marketing & Communications ................................................................................................................................................................. 18 

Corporate Staff ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 22 

Board of Directors ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 22 

Financial Statements ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 

3



Message from the 

Chair of the Board 

Martin J. Komsa 

Chair, WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation 

On behalf of the Board of Directors it is my pleasure 

to present the WindsorEssex Economic Development 

Corporation’s 2015 Annual Report. 

It has been a year of transition, and the Board has worked 

diligently on the processes for effective governance of 

the organization. The Board of Directors established core 

objectives with three overall themes: Regional Economic 

Development, Openness and Transparency and Preparing 

the Organization for Future Successes. Under the strategic 

direction of the Board, the CEO (Interim) and leadership 

team worked successfully towards establishing these processes 

and formats. 

A move by the Board to provide full transparency has 

been completed with management creating an effective 

communication strategy to highlight our successes and 

positive accomplishments while maintaining confidentiality 

of clients. This information is communicated in a quarterly 

report to our funders and stakeholders. The monthly schedule 

of Board meetings continues to be communicated to the 

public and media on the corporation’s web-site along with the 

agenda and previous month’s minutes. Communication has 

been developed to promote the fact that Board meetings are 

open to the public. 

Other objectives currently in progress include reaching out to 

like-minded economic development-focused organizations 

in the City and County to coordinate efforts to develop, 

promote and market the region; ongoing discussions with the 

City of Windsor and County of Essex regarding the purchase 

of service agreements that will act as the new funding model 

for WEEDC; and implementing a discussion process to set 

out a plan for the hiring of a permanent CEO in early July 

2016. 

On behalf of the Board of Directors I would like to 

congratulate the staff of the WindsorEssex Economic 

Development Corporation for their continued passion, 

dedication and service to our community throughout 2015 

and in the years ahead. 

To my colleagues on the WindsorEssex Economic 

Development Board, thank you for your support and for 

sharing your professional expertise to the benefit of the 

organization and region as we continue to further diversify 

our economy. 

I would also like to acknowledge and express appreciation 

to our two key funders for their ongoing commitment – 

The City of Windsor and the County of Essex. We thank you 

for your continued support! 

4



Message from the Mayor, 

City of Windsor 

Drew Dilkens 

Mayor, City of Windsor 

Job creation will remain a top priority for the City of Windsor 

for the foreseeable future as set out in the Draft 20-Year 

Strategic Vision proposed by Council in June 2015. The Draft 

Vision puts in place a path forward that will build on the City’s 

strength as a transportation hub located on the Canada-US 

border, in close proximity to one of the richest consumer 

markets in the world, and will see municipal decisions made 

through an economic development lens. 

The sense of optimism cultivated in 2015 surrounding 

Windsor’s economic future was led by FCA Canada’s $2 

billion investment in the Windsor Assembly Plant to retool 

for the company’s next-generation minivan. Hiring began 

towards the end of 2015 to add the approximately 1200 

employees the plant will require to produce the new minivan. 

Although remaining work on The Rt. Hon. Herb Gray 

Parkway will be completed in 2016, large local construction 

projects continue as Amico Infrastructure Inc. was awarded 

the early works project to complete a perimeter access road, 

utility relocation and fill placement for the Gordie Howe 

International Bridge in 2015. The future for the construction 

industry looks bright with the construction of the bridge set 

to begin at the end of the current RFP process, continued 

work on the University of Windsor’s Downtown Campus and 

the prospect of a new Single Site Acute Care Hospital in the 

near future. 

Looking ahead, the City of Windsor will continue to focus on 

economic development by promoting streamlined and local 

economic development initiatives, diversifying its economy, 

leveraging partnerships and embracing a technology mindset. 

On behalf of Windsor City Council, I thank all of the staff at 

the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation for 

their dedication during a year of change. 

5



Message from the Warden, 

County of Essex 

new opportunities. The resilience of the manufacturing sector 

continues to impress. The significant investment made by FCA 

demonstrates a well-placed confidence in our region. 

Essex County businesses and residents continue to adapt and 

reinvent to seek out competitive advantages. Working in close 

collaboration with the WindsorEssex Economic Development 

Corporation, local business and industry have been able to initiate 

strategic investments that have resulted in job retention, business 

expansion and investment attraction. 

Tom Bain 

Warden, County of Essex 

A renewed sense of vitality is beginning to take root across Essex 

County. After years of trying economic conditions, the region 

is showing an increase in growth, productivity and output. A 

favourably priced Canadian dollar has no doubt assisted in driving 

up demand for locally produced goods. However, the creativity, 

innovation and dogged determination of Essex County businesses 

have all been equally influential. 

Greenhouse operators continue to introduce new products 

and cultivate new markets. Agriculture and agri-business 

facilities have forged new alliances, creating a wealth of exciting 

A wealth of opportunities lies at our doorstep. Notwithstanding 

the spark shown in local economic prospects, much work 

remains to retain, repatriate and attract the best and the brightest. 

Collaboration, innovation and technology will underpin regional 

prosperity and growth. 

Make no mistake about it, Essex County has been, is and will 

continue to be world-class. We have a deserved reputation 

for “never giving in and never giving up.” The way forward will 

require partnership and collaboration to drive prosperity. The 

WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation will be a key 

participant in influencing and nurturing investment and activity. 

On behalf of the County of Essex, I extend appreciation to the 

Board and staff at the WindsorEssex Economic Development 

Corporation for their contribution and commitment to our 

community. 

6



Message from the 

Chief Executive Officer (Interim) 

A renewed emphasis was placed on in-bound and out-bound 

trade missions in 2015 as we hosted representatives from China, 

Mexico and Vietnam to our region. We intentionally increased 

out-bound trade missions and travelled to promote the region 

to potential investors in the Middle East, China, Vietnam and 

Germany. 

We continue to show the world that our region is the right choice 

when making investment decisions and we will continue to take 

advantage of competitive opportunities that attract new global 

players to our region. Additionally, numerous partnerships have 

been formed regionally, nationally and internationally with 

communication and collaboration with our municipalities and 

stakeholders remaining our top priority. 

Rakesh Naidu, CEO (Interim), 

WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation 

Our organization supports, sustains and grows our 

existing businesses and helps diversify the Windsor-Essex 

economy. In 2015, numerous initiatives were implemented 

and goals accomplished by the dedicated WindsorEssex 

Economic Development team within business retention and 

expansion, small business, business attraction, marketing and 

communications… all integral areas to the growth of economic 

development. 

This report highlights our performance metrics and 

accomplishments achieved as we retained a sharp and steady 

focus on business development. Key highlights include: 942 

new jobs due to the efforts of the Business Development team 

compared to the 800 jobs reported in 2014; $224,185,000 in new 

investments was facilitated through public and private investment 

compared with $100 million in 2014. As well, you will read in 

this report how we assisted 958 companies through economic 

development activities compared to 520 in 2014. 

Overall our performance metrics in 2015 outlines very positive 

outcomes - a very clear indicator that we are well positioned to 

maintain our momentum and achieve our goals in 2016 and 

beyond. 

I want to thank my team of economic development professionals 

for their unwavering support, positive accomplishments and for 

their commitment to excellence. I also want to acknowledge their 

exceptional business-friendly approach that consistently benefits 

our stakeholders and ultimately the Windsor-Essex Region. 

Special thanks to our Board of Directors for their commitment 

and support. They have spent countless hours in stabilizing, 

revitalizing the organization, while providing valued direction. 

Their leadership and commitment to the community is 

exemplary. 

7



Business Development 

2015 highlights 

BUSINESS ATTRACTION 

942 

new jobs 

facilitated* 

58 total 

active files 

21 priority 

files 

The goal of the Business 

Attraction team is to promote 

Windsor-Essex both nationally 

and internationally to companies 

looking to expand their 

operations. 

The team identifies these 

opportunities and provides the 

companies with professional 

advice and assistance including 

site selection, potential local 

suppliers, workforce data and 

information on how to do 

business in Ontario and Canada. 

This support is provided both 

before and after their decision. 

*Total number of new jobs created through attraction, small business creation, and retention & expansion. 

BUSINESS RETENTION & EXPANSION 

Facilitating the success and growth of existing Windsor- 

Essex businesses is the focus of the Business Retention 

and Expansion (BR+E) team. The team supports local 

companies in expanding into new markets, identifying 

potential supply chain opportunities, and accessing 

applicable government programs and initiatives. 

958 companies 

reached through 

targeted activities 

and events 

Supported the 

creation of 526 jobs 

and +$224 million in 

local investment 

! 

1 

Agri- 

Business 

priority 

files by 

sector BR+E Activities 2015 RESULTS 

Warehousing! 4 

Logistics/ 

ICT 

Advanced 

Manufacturing 

! 4 

! 12 

Company Assists/Matchmaking 169 

Events/Workshops 10 

Number of Attendees 959 

Expansion (open files/completed) 27 

Outreach (corporate calls/plant tours) 80 

8



TOOLS & DATA 

Having the proper tools and data available to help our industries grow is crucial to successful development. Throughout 2015, 

the following tools and systems were available: 

Buywindsoressex.com Database 

This online marketing tool was designed 

to highlight the capabilities and promote 

products of Windsor-Essex companies 

in the manufacturing, agri-business and 

information/communication technology 

sectors. 2015 saw the addition of the 

Logistics, Warehousing and Border 

Services sectors and many new 

searchable categories in all other sectors. 

There are 2,130 local firms now on the 

database, being accessed from around 

the globe. Over 27,000 unique searches 

on average take place every month on the 

buywindsoressex.com database. 

Monthly Economic Monitor 

This online publication provides the latest 

available statistical data for the Windsor- 

Essex region. It covers all labour force 

trends, housing starts, GDP, economic 

forecasting through the Conference 

Board of Canada, building permit values 

and blog-style data analysis and trend 

explanation. The Economic Monitor is 

viewed by thousands every year and 

can be found both through our social 

media accounts on the last Wednesday of 

every month and in the “work” section at 

choosewindsoressex.com. 

Regional Demographics Tool 

Online, up-to-date demographic 

information is important to investors and 

site locators. Our regional demographics 

tool provides comparisons of data 

such as population, household income 

and languages spoken. The tool is 

available in the “Work” section at 

choosewindsoressex.com. 

Trade Missions - INbound 

CHINA 

The Business Development team hosted 

potential investors from Chongqing, 

China interested in North American 

investment opportunities, potential 

in joint ventures, automation design 

companies and robotics companies. 

MEXICO 

In conjunction with the APMA Annual 

Conference, held in Windsor, the Business 

Development team organized and 

participated in a series of plant tours at nine 

regional manufacturing facilities, according 

to requirements of the Mexican purchasing 

teams. 

9 

VIETNAM 

During the visit to Windsor by a delegation 

of Vietnamese buyers and investors, 

EcDev facilitated an information session 

and invited companies and organizations 

interested in growing their export activities. 

The delegates toured a number of regional 

manufacturing facilities and met with key 

stakeholders.



Trade Missions - OUTbound 

Middle East 

In 2015, the WindsorEssex 

Economic Development 

Corporation travelled to 

the UAE on a trade mission 

to promote investment 

opportunities across all 

sectors in Windsor-Essex. 

Meetings were arranged with 

individual companies and 

presentations were made 

at receptions to highlight 

Windsor-Essex’s advantages. 

The mission included a special 

reception with the Canadian 

Ambassador to the UAE. 

China 

The WindsorEssex Economic 

Development Corporation 

travelled to China to meet 

with automotive-sector 

investors identified as being 

potentially interested in 

expanding in North America. 

GERMANY 

Business Attraction 

participated in collaboration 

with the Ontario Automotive 

Communities Alliance’s 

FDI mission to eCarTec in 

Munich, Germany in Fall 

2015. eCarTec is the world’s 

largest trade fair for electric 

and hybrid mobility. 

China & Vietnam 

Ontario Auto Parts Mission 

EcDev collaborated with the 

Government of Ontario and APMA 

on a mission to the China Auto 

Product Expo that included autorelated 

meetings in Chongqing, 

Changsha and Shanghai. EcDev 

also collaborated with the Canadian 

Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam 

and Becamex IDC to host an 

investment opportunities reception 

in Binh Duong, including one-onone 

meetings with Vietnamese 

companies interested in Windsor- 

Essex. 

Key Projects & Initiatives 

Roundtable with Provincial and 

Municipal Representatives 

A roundtable discussion with Deputy Premier Deb Matthews 

provided an opportunity for Windsor-Essex CAOs to deliver 

their issues and concerns directly to the provincial government. 

Productive discussions included: seeking solutions to policies that 

would lessen the burden on municipalities to attract investment; 

maintaining a competitive advantage; and providing a businessfriendly 

environment. 

Crossing the Border for Business - 

The Rules Have Changed 

At the request of our manufacturing sector, representatives from 

Citizenship and Immigration Canada and Canada Border Services 

Agency presented up-to-date information and changes to the 

regulations for foreign nationals coming to Canada to conduct 

warranty repair work, sales calls, business meetings, etc. The event 

drew 100 attendees representing more than 60 local companies. 

Manufacturers’ Supplier Day 

Back row (l – r) Lee McGrath, EcDev; Claudio Caruso, SNC-Lavalin; 

Sandra Pupatello, EcDev; Rick Norris, SNC-Lavalin; Michael Haynes, 

Siemens; Robb Barr, ABB; Peter Prahalis, ABB; 

Front row (l –r ) Nancy Derouim, ABB; Jennifer Corey, Siemens 

WindsorEssex Economic Development presented an opportunity 

for local companies to meet with three powerhouse companies 

ABB; Siemens and SNC-Lavalin. These multi-national companies 

10



were looking to enhance their global supply chain in the areas of: 

Industrial, Power, Infrastructure, Robotics and Nuclear Energy. 

The day included 40 one-on-one meetings with the strategic 

buying teams. Over 75 companies attended the information 

session. Three local companies have landed contracts and another 

two companies are in the qualification process for the supplier base. 

Changes to Canadian Food Safety 

In partnership with the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers 

(OGVG), EcDev hosted an event where presentations were 

made by Canadian and U.S. industry representatives on new food 

inspection regulations and impending changes to food safety 

legislation. More than 65 attendees including greenhouse growers 

and operators, produce packers, transportation: trucking and 

logistics companies, food storage companies, food processors, 

package labeling companies, marketing consultants, insurance 

agents, and customs brokers learned how to prepare for the new 

rules on getting their products across the border. 

Bridge Supplier Fair – 

Gordie Howe International Bridge 

In collaboration with the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority, 

EcDev hosted an event to present the planned procurement 

process for the design, construction, operation and maintenance 

of the new bridge. The session, which was open to Windsor 

and Detroit companies, was attended by over 280 companies, 

government officials and associations. It featured a presentation 

by the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Federal Minister of Transport. 

Emerging Technologies for Machine, 

Tool, Die and Mould Making 

A seminar was presented by WindsorEssex Economic 

Development Corp. in partnership with National Research 

Council - IRAP on shared technology solutions. Topics covered 

included ideas on internal cost reduction, faster engineering, 

streamlined processes, improved quality and minimized risk 

of human error. Seventy local businesses attended with expert 

presentations by ten local innovative companies. 

Doing Business with the Government 

Alex Vucinic, Purchasing Manager, City of Windsor 

The Government of Canada, Government of Ontario, and the 

City of Windsor presented information on how each level of 

government does its purchasing, delivers its procurement process, 

and where and how businesses can promote their goods and 

services to them. This was an ideal opportunity and resource for 

our Windsor-Essex businesses to learn the processes, and how 

to watch for opportunities to make their businesses known to 

government and make them their customer. An afternoon session 

was conducted by Public Works and Government Services Canada 

to present the Government of Canada’s programs to support 

innovation.. 

Grocery Innovations Canada Trade Show, 

Toronto, ON 

EcDev provided four regional agri-business companies the 

opportunity to showcase their products at the Grocery Innovations 

Canada Tradeshow. The companies were Dainty Foods, Lakeside 

Packing, Highline Mushrooms and Lakeside Produce. The EcDev 

team met with a trade delegation from the UAE, resulting in a local 

Windsor company entering into a trade deal with the UAE. 

Naturallia Trade Show, Sudbury, ON 

Joining the Business Development team, three local companies 

participated in a matchmaking event with a focus on the Natural 

Resources sector. The companies were, Windsor Transload, Valco 

Manufacturing and Dovercourt Management (Windsor satellite 

office). Over 45 successful match meetings were held with these 

companies. 

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 

11



PERFORMANCE METRICS 

WHAT WE DO 

The WindsorEssex Economic 

Development Corporation advances 

economic development and 

prosperity in our region. We are the 

region’s lead economic development 

agency and a dedicated catalyst for 

business growth and expansion. We 

attract new businesses to our region, 

help strengthen existing businesses 

and support entrepreneurship in three 

key ways: 

REGIONAL 

labour market 

INDICATORS 

REGIONAL ECONOMIC INDICATORS 

(15 yrs. +) 

331,800 

209,900 

190,700 

INFORMING: We provide the most current and 

relevant information and data on site selection, 

market research and available government 

funding. 

GUIDING: We provide answers and advice on 

general business practices, expansion planning, 

multi-national branch planning and exporting, 

as well as training and educational resources. 

9.2% 

57.5% 

19,300 

63.3% 

CONNECTING: We help organizations cut 

through red tape and we connect them directly 

with key decision makers, potential partners and 

funders. 

Note: The above figures reflect all of Windsor and 

Essex County. Source: Statistics Canada Labour Force 

Survey, custom tabulation 

$224,185,000 

new investment new investment facilitated facilitatedbuilding building permits permits 

Total amount of new Total investment amount to of new the region, investment through to the region, through 

Total value of building Total permits value of issued building to date. permits issued to date. 

both public and private both investment public and private streams. investment streams. 

66 

BUSINESS BUSINESS RESOURCE RESOURCE SESSIONS SESSIONS 

Sessions facilitated to Sessions help enhance, facilitated strengthen to help enhance, and educate strengthen regional and businesses. educate regional businesses. 

business business expansions expansions 

Providing awareness Providing and preparedness awareness on and key preparedness issues and imminent on key issues opportunities. and imminent opportunities. 

facilitated facilitated 

NEW JOBS NEW FACILITATED JOBS FACILITATED 

Total number of new Total jobs number created through of new jobs attraction, created small through attraction, small 

business creation, and business retention creation, and expansion. and retention and expansion. 

PRIORITY PRIORITY FILES FILES 

Attraction files that are Attraction active and files with that a are high active potential and with for success. a high potential for success. 

BUSINESS BUSINESS STARTUPS STARTUPS 

942 

21 

140 

Includes both businesses Includes attracted both businesses to region and attracted ones started to region and ones started 

by regional entrepreneurs by regional through entrepreneurs the Small Business through Centre. the Small Business Centre. 

$220,361,393 

SESSIONS 

ATTENDEES 

120 

SESSIONS 

5,835 

ATTENDEES 

12



PERFORMANCE METRICS 

3 

PRIORITY BUSINESS 

ATTRACTION FILES 

15 

12 

10 

2 

9 

112 

6 

17 

05 

04 

03 

02 

01 

00 

4 

Information 

Communications 

Technology 

1 

Advanced 

Agri-Business 

Manufacturing 

SECTORS 

4 

Logistics & 

Warehousing 

top business priorities 

Energy cost & supply 

Infrastructure Funding 

regulatory environment 

cross-border immigration 

skilled trades shortage 

choosewindsoressex.com 

13



CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 

Life Sciences Hub 

Bill Marra, Vice President External Affairs, Innovation & Philanthropy 

Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare. 

The WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation 

and Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare signed a Memorandum of 

Understanding to officially launch the “Cross Border Life Sciences 

Hub” on May 22, 2015. The intention of the Hub is to improve 

patient care, advance clinical research, increase development of 

new products, attract high-value trade and investments and create 

desirable careers in our region. The Hub will help develop the 

Life Sciences sector in the region by capitalizing on our distinct 

advantages and strengths. Guest speakers included: Brian Lewis, 

President & CEO, MEDEC; Gary Switzer, CEO, Erie St. Clair 

LHIN; Jason Field, President & CEO, Life Sciences Ontario; 

and Steve Bartol, Chief Medical Officer, Henry Ford Innovation. 

Lightweight Materials Session at APMA 

Matthew Marks, American Chemistry Council Plastics Division; 

David Anderson, Steel Market Development Institute; Jeff Bladlow, 

Kaiser Aluminum & Aluminum Transportation Group. 

In partnership with the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ 

Association (APMA) and the Center for Automotive Research 

(CAR), EcDev produced and sponsored the Lightweighting 

Keynote and Discussion Forum at APMA’s Annual Conference. 

The keynote speaker was Marcello Grassi, Head of Composite 

Strategy, Chief Technologist, McLaren Automotive. As the region 

expands into a lightweight and additive materials hub, plans are in 

place to hold another session in 2016. 

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) 

Partnerships 

Through membership in the Ontario Food Cluster (OFC) and 

Ontario Automotive Communities Alliance (OACA), EcDev 

participated in two FDI attraction missions in 2015: the Private 

Label Trade Show in Chicago (with OFC) and eCarTec Trade 

Show in Munich, Germany (with OACA). 

INFO GATHERING/ 

KNOWLEDGE 

The Business Development team participates 

in conferences, seminars and workshops to 

gather information relevant to local interests 

and useful to economic development. These 

included: 

• Economic Developers Council of Ontario 

Annual Conference 

• Manufacturing Day 2015 

• CME Roundtable with Valiant 

• Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority 

Industry Days 

• Ministry of Citizenship Immigration 

International Trade Roundtable 

• MEDEC Conference 

• CAR Management Briefing Seminars 

• CAR Automotive Communities 

Partnership 

• The Battery Show 

• Canada-Korea Business Opportunities 

• CMTS-Medical Manufacturing 

Innovation Series 

• UM/ULI Michigan Real Estate Forum 

(Exhibitor) 

14



Small Business Centre (SBC) 


Committed to Helping Entrepreneurs 

Succeed 

The Small Business Centre (SBC) has provided thousands of 

entrepreneurs with the training and support necessary to start and 

grow successful businesses and is a one stop source – providing 

guidance and professional advice from concept, through start-up 

and early growth stages of business. SBC operates as a department 

of the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation in 

partnership with the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, 

Employment and Infrastructure. Belonging to a network of offices 

that serve Ontario’s small business community, SBC is your local 

source for small business support services. SBC offers two locations: 

one in Windsor and a satellite office in the town of Essex. 

In partnership with the Ontario government and seasoned business 

professionals, SBC offers more opportunities for small business 

owners and entrepreneurs to access counseling, mentoring, seed 

funding and networks. SBC continually strives to bring relevant and 

impactful programs and services to support the needs of new and 

existing small business in the region. 

Key Projects & Initiatives 

Downtown Windsor 

Farmers’ Market Showcase 

Over the past year, SBC has significantly increased outreach 

efforts across the region through a variety of initiatives including 

speaking engagements, events, strategic marketing and social media 

campaigns. 

SBC is the entry point to help the small business owner, to start, 

grow, and prosper. It offers customized counseling, micro-financing, 

and network opportunities. Through a unique resource network, 

SBC provides the tools to help entrepreneurs along the path to 

success as a small business owner. 

SBC also works with numerous community partners to bring 

programs to as many people as possible – most notably, by 

celebrating Small Business month annually in October to recognize 

entrepreneurs and small business. 

Youth entrepreneurship continues to be a vital component of the 

SBC strategy in order to foster a culture of entrepreneurship and 

inspire our next generation of small business leaders, business 

owners and innovators. 

Workshops, Seminars and Networking 

Opportunities 

In 2015, 110 business development workshops 

were held for over 5000 attendees. 

(l-r) Anahita Hassanpour, HarmoScent; Noah Walker, Germs Be Gone 

The SBC team participated with their Summer Company program 

student entrepreneurs at the Downtown Windsor Farmers’ Market 

to showcase and sell their products and services. 

During the year, the SBC facilitated and hosted a variety of dynamic 

workshops and seminars – all designed to create opportunities for 

small business clients to connect, develop and network among their 

peers and with experienced leaders in the business community. 

Topics ranged from business fundamentals to more advanced 

business topics delivered by business professionals and entrepreneurs. 

15



Regional Grant Administrator 

for Southwestern Ontario 

The Small Business Centre is the Regional Grant Administrator for 

the Starter Company program and is responsible for administering 

the program on behalf of a network of seven communities across 

Southwestern Ontario. To date a total of 60 grants ($300,000) 

have been awarded across SW Ontario. Due to the success of the 

program and quality administration, our role has been extended 

to March 31, 2017. 

Starter Company 

students were accepted into the program and received hands-on 

training, mentorship and an award of up to $3,000 to help them 

launch and operate their very own businesses. Student businesses 

this year included recreation services, home maintenance services, 

retail fashion, video production and graphic design. 

SBC Advisory Services Expanded 

to Leamington 

In collaboration with the Leamington Economic Development 

Office and the Leamington & District Chamber of Commerce, 

the SBC piloted the delivery of startup programming and advisory 

services to local business owners and entrepreneurs. The goal is to 

broaden awareness and availability of the Small Business Centre 

programs and services to Leamington and surrounding area. 

Encore Enterprise Program 

(l-r) Sabrina DeMarco & Sandra Vasquez, SBC present a cheque 

to Shelby Pellow, Shelby’s Sweet Shop 

Awareness and uptake of the Starter Company program aimed at 

youth between the ages of 18-29 peaked last year. This Government 

of Ontario program provides training, mentorship and a microgrant 

of $5,000 to help youth launch, expand or purchase a new 

business. In 2015, nearly 100 individuals accessed the training and 

business development supports. Twenty-five youth applied and 

received a micro-grant, and paired with a seasoned entrepreneur to 

ensure continued success. In 2015, $75,000 in micro-grants were 

awarded throughout the region. This successful pilot program has 

been extended to March 31, 2017. 

Summer Company 2015 

This long-standing Government of Ontario program provides 

full-time secondary and post-secondary students between the ages 

of 15 and 29 an opportunity to test their entrepreneurial skills and 

launch their very own summer businesses. In 2015, 18 enterprising 

Last year, the SBC launched one of the first of its kind 

entrepreneurial initiatives in the region targeting individuals aged 

50+ to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions and start a business. 

An event was held with over 80 attendees to hear featured keynote 

speaker Wendy Mayhew, entrepreneur, author and advocate 

for promoting seniorpreneurship in Canada. The initiative has 

resulted in an increase in encore enterprises in the region as well as 

improved marketing, outreach and expanded programming to this 

demographic. 

Small Business Celebrations during 

Small Business Month 

October is Small Business Month in Ontario, highlighting the 

important contributions entrepreneurs make to the economy. 

SBC was proud to once again lead this initiative to celebrate 

entrepreneurs whose ideas, passion and determination help make 

our local region and economy competitive and prosperous. 

To mark the occasion, the Small Business Centre presented a full 

schedule of events and marketing campaigns to highlight and 

celebrate the importance of small business and entrepreneurship. 

16



Small Biz-Big Buzz Expo 


Celebrating 

Success 

Youth funding 

facilitated 

$185,000 

SBC’s premier Small Business Month event, Small Biz-Big Buzz Expo, was held on October 

22 at the Water’s Edge Event Centre. Over 40 local entrepreneurs and small businesses 

participated by exhibiting their products and services to over 400 attendees and supported 

local businesses by shopping, tasting and networking. The event showcased some of the 

region’s small businesses that offer a diverse range of food, drinks, art and quality goods and 

services. 

There was a lot of buzz and excitement in the air and a great deal of interaction among the 

vendors and the public. Here is what some business exhibitors and attendees had to say 

about the event: 

140 

business 

start ups 

40 

business 

expansions 

“The Expo exceeded all of my expectations. 

It was a great evening from start to finish. 

A very professional expo. Thank you to the 

Small Business team for their time and effort 

in putting on such a great event. The event was 

well publicized and attendance proved it was 

marketed effectively. Venue was excellent. I would 

recommend it for all small business owners!” 

- Janis Windsor, Windsor & Co. Business 

Consultants 

“A great 

opportunity 

to meet other 

vendors and to 

promote all of us 

in one space! 

I loved it! “ 

- Sarah Barrette, 

The Cheese Bar 

440 jobs 

created 

Outreach 

6,467 

inquiries 

received 

SBC with the support of Marketing ran a month long advertising campaign which included: 

two testimonial commercials featuring business clients – Thai Palace and Fake It Spray Tan 

and Beauty Bar. Advertising was supported with expert blogs published on www.windsorite. 

ca and through social media. A number of media interviews to promote the Expo, discuss 

the importance of small business and the services of the Small Business Centre took place. 

Also during Small Business month, SBC partnered with the Resource Centre of Essex, 

Municipality of Leamington Economic Development Office, and Leamington & District 

Chamber of Commerce to host a breakfast networking and learning event. We hosted a 

similar meeting in partnership with Town of Essex Economic Development Office and 

Centre Business Improvement Association. 

1,346 

business 

consultations 

110 seminars 

workshops, 

5,351 people 

attending 

17



Marketing & Communications 


The Marketing department focuses on creating strategies that support business development initiatives within the areas of Business 

Retention and Expansion, Business Attraction, and Entrepreneurship. Marketing and advertising strategies are aimed at enhancing business 

development and promoting the Windsor-Essex region. Strategic programs and activities were developed within the following areas: 

integrated marketing and advertising campaigns, event management, sponsorships, media and public relations, collateral materials, and 

communication through social media channels including video and corporate websites. Marketing is also responsible for maintaining brand 

standards across all media. 

Advertising, Public & Media Relations, 

and Events 

Advertising 

Marketing develops strategic advertising campaigns to leverage our 

business development programs to reach target markets. Additionally, we 

actively negotiate opportunities that provide in-kind editorial interviews 

to deliver our message about the region. 

• Re-purposed key sector sell sheets into ads for placement in prominent 

industry magazines such as Expansion Solutions, f Di Magazine, 

Perspective: Advanced Manufacturing 2015 Edition, CTMA ‘The View’ 

Magazine, APMA ‘Lead, Reach and Connect’ Magazine, Site Selection 

Magazine. 

• Advertising via social media to reach regional, national and international 

markets such as the United States, Germany and the United Arab 

Emirates. 

• A regional Facebook advertising campaign for Small Business Centre. 

Public Relations 

In 2015, we proactively identified events and sponsorship with speaking 

opportunities that met target markets and provided maximum exposure 

for the Corporation. Examples include: 

• Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association Conference 

• Athena Awards Luncheon 

• Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards 

• Leamington Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards 

• Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence 

Awards 

Media Relations 

Media relations is an integral part of daily activities for the Marketing 

department. Media interactions included: developing media releases and 

media events, announcements for new investments, daily media scanning, 

coaching and working with clients, media interviews as well as interacting 

with media for interviews. 

Highlights: Media Headlines 

It’s Official! HGS 

Canada announces 

Tecumseh Mall 

as the Site for their 

Newest Contact 

Centre 

Windsor-Essex 

Manufacturers’ 

Supplier Day 

Sutherland 

Global hiring 

for 300 jobs 

Over 300 

Students 

Participate in 

Manufacturing 

Day 2015 

Windsor-Essex 

to Become 

Lightweight 

Materials Hub 

EcDev takes 

part in premier 

Grocery & 

Specialty Food 

Show 

Business Start 

Up Program 

Aimed at 

Attracting 

Retirees 

Windsor-Essex 

in the Top Two 

For Business 

Friendliness 

Award by fDi 

American Cities 

Life Sciences 

Hub Takes 

Shape in 

Windsor-Essex 

EcDev Board 

Announces 

Interim CEO 

Small Business 

Centre launches 

Summer Co. 

Program 

Capacity crowd 

hears Minister Raitt 

highlight benefits 

of new bridge 

18



Events 

Marketing supported over 25 significant business development 

events, such as: 

• Investment Ready Day with keynote speaker Markham Mayor 

Frank Scarpitti 

• Middle East: Abu Dhabi and Dubai Speaking Events 

• Food Safety Act and Crossing the Border for Business 

• Manufacturers’ Supplier Day 

• Lightweighting Conference 

• 2014 Annual Report and AGM 

• Media Event for Minister of Energy, Robert Chiarelli 

• Seniorpreneur Seminar 

• Gordie Howe International Bridge Supplier Fair 

• Small Biz Big Buzz Expo 

• Business Continuity Planning Information Session 

• Vietnam Business Opportunities Seminar - In-bound mission 

Key Projects 

& Initiatives 

HGS Canada Announcement 

Manufacturers’ Supplier Day 

Claudio Caruso, Director, Global Procurement Strategies, 

SNC-Lavalin spoke about opportunities available to Windsor suppliers. 

A significant event held at Caesars Windsor was planned for regional 

manufacturers to meet and secure procurement opportunities with 

multi-national companies such as ABB, Siemens and SNC-Lavalin. 

Marketing’s responsibility was event management, coordination of 

speakers, media and public relations. 

Lightweighting Keynote and Discussion 

Forum 

Ross Beattie, CEO HGS Canada 

EcDev supported a very successful job fair for HGS Canada. This 

client announced Windsor-Essex as their choice for their latest call 

centre. A media conference was organized by Marketing held at their 

future home at Tecumseh Mall. 

Business Development in the Middle East 

Marketing assisted with the coordination of event details with the 

Canadian Embassy UAE and the Canadian Business Council Dubai 

and Northern Emirates. There were two speaking opportunities for 

the business development team to promote the region to prospective 

investors. 

The forum was leveraged with the APMA Conference held at 

Caesars Windsor. The forum included a keynote address by Dr. 

Marcello Grassi, with McLaren Automotive and a panel of industry 

experts and representatives from the Center for Automotive 

Research. Marketing’s responsibility was media and public relations 

support, preparing presentations and coordination of speaker details. 

The highlight of the event was the launch of the new Lightweighting 

key sector video produced through the Marketing department. 

19

$5.00 

$4.00 

$3.00 

$2.00 

$5.00 

$1.00 

$4.00 

$3.00 

$2.00 

$1.00 

$3.18 

$3.18 

Windsor-Essex 

Chicago 

Toronto 

$5.02 

$5.10 

$3.58 

$5.02 

$75 

$70 

$65 

$60 

$55 

$68.2 

$75 

$70 

$65 

$60 

$55 

$70.2 

$64.0 

Windsor-Essex 

Toronto 

Chicago 

$78.6 

$25 

$20 

$15 

$10 

$66.1 

$5 

$16.67 

$77.6 

$19.24 

$25.51 

$75 

$5.00 

$70 

$4.00 

$65 

$3.00 

$60 

$2.00 

$1.00 

$55 

WINDSOR-ESSEX 

MONTREAL 

CHICAGO TORONTO 

LOS ANGELES 

NEW YORK 

DALLAS 

MEXICO CITY 

$3.18 

$3.58 

$67.11 

$63.95 

$5.02 

$76.53 

SAO PAOLO 

$75 

$70 

$65 

$60 

$55 

$5.00 

$4.00 

$3.00 

$2.00 

$1.00 

LONDON 

MOSCOW 

FRANKFURT 

PARIS 

ROME 

ISTANBUL 

DUBAI 

$64.0 

$3.19 

$66.1 

$3.59 

$77.6 

$5.01 

A l others 

Lansdowne 

$85 

$80 

$75 

$70 

$65 

BEIJING 

SEOUL 

TOKYO 

SHANGHAI 

MUMBAI 

$72.0 

$74.7 

Peace Bridge 

Fort Erie 

$88.0 

SYDNEY 

CANADA 

USA 

MONTREAL 

TORONTO 

CHICAGO 

NEW YORK 

250 mi 

DA LAS 

5 0 mi 

DETROIT 

750 mi 

MONTEREY 

MEXICO 

1250 mi 

CITY 

WINDSOR-ESSEX 

USA 

2013 

BRONZE 

SARNIA 

LONDON 

WINDSOR-ESSEX 

CANADA 



Bridge Supplier Fair – Gordie Howe 

International Bridge 

Over 280 business people attended this information session to hear 

from representatives of the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority and 

the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Transport about the potential 

opportunities for local companies interested in supplying, building, 

maintaining and operating the new Gordie Howe International 

Bridge. Marketing’s responsibilities included event management, 

presentations, media and public relations. 

Life Sciences Hub takes shape in 

Windsor-Essex 

Janice Kaffer, Bill Marra, Shari Cunningham, Hôtel-Dieu Grace 

Healthcare Officials, and representing EcDev Shelley Fellows, 

Rakesh Naidu and Sandra Pupatello. 

A ceremony to sign a Memorandum of Understanding took 

place with Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare and the WindsorEssex 

Economic Development Corp. to officially launch the Cross-Border 

Life Sciences Hub. Marketing collaborated with Hôtel-Dieu Grace 

Healthcare for event management, media and public relations. 

Tools for Business 

Development 

The following marketing tools were developed for use by the 

Business Development team for attraction, business retention & 

expansion and small business: 

VIDEOS 

• Refreshed and translated videos into Arabic & Mandarin featuring 

the Agri-Business, Advanced Manufacturing and Transportation, 

Logistics & Warehousing sectors. 

• A Lightweighting video was produced and featured at our 

Lightweighting Forum during the APMA Conference. These 

videos are used by the business development team in presentations 

to potential investors and during speaking opportunities. They are 

also used on our website and in social media advertising. 

Visit: http://www.YouTube.com/WindsorEssex 

ONLINE 

• Websites and social media channels are maintained with current 

information on a daily basis. 

• Statistics and analysis of the online tools are leveraged to identify 

opportunities. 

COLLATERAL MATERIALS 

• Collateral materials such as key sector brochures and matching 

banners were developed to complement the videos and used by 

the Business Development team. 

Advanced manufacturing in Windsor-Essex, Ontario: 

Discover North America’s manufacturing powerhouse! 

Leaders in the industry – combining the people, the knowledge, the research and the infrastructure. 

INDUSTRY 

PROFILE 

1000+ 

$3.3B 

90+ 

250+ 

manufacturers 

in the region 

annual GDP in 

of region’s total 

auto and parts 

manufacturers 

including 2 OEMs 

machine, tool, 

die and mold 

manufacturers 

manufacturing, 28% 

EDUCATION & 

RESEARCH 

University of Windsor 

• $112 mi lion Centre for 

Engineering Innovation 

• $500 mi lion UW/Chrysler 

Canada Automotive R&D Centre 

• HQ of AUTO21 

• Centre for Automotive 

Research and Education 

St. Clair College 

• $32.5 mi lion Ford Centre for 

Exce lence in Manufacturing 

• Over 140 graduates annua ly 

in engineering and related 

programs 

KEY SECTORS 

& EXPERIENCE 

Key Sectors 

• Automotive 

• Aerospace 

• Food Processing 

• Pharmaceutical, Nutraceutical 

and Medical Devices 

Expertise 

• Light-weight materials 

• Clean diesel 

• Robotic-intensive automation 

• Advanced powertrain 

• Paint and coatings 

• Noise vibration 

• 3D printing 

• Design of assembly/production 

lines 

INDUSTRY 

STRENGTHS 

• Available capacity, ability to machine to 

very tight tolerances 

• Experience with a wide range of 

materials from standard steels to exotic 

metals and composites 

• Expertise in lean manufacturing 

methods 

• Manufacturing workforce of 40,000 

people 

• Largest sector by revenue in region 

• Birthplace of Canada’s Automotive 

Industry 

SUPPLY CHAIN 

ACCESS TO MARKET 

• HQs for 6 automotive OEMs located 

within 260 km (160 miles) 

• One mile from Metropolitan Detroit 

with 3.8 mi lion population 

• Busiest commercial border crossing 

in North America with 1/3 of a l 

Canada-U.S. trade 

• Integrated supply chain with a l 

components: design, development, 

manufacturing, assembly, logistics 

• Highway connections to U.S. 

interstate system via bridge and 

tunnel, deepwater port, rail system 

integrated with U.S. system via rail 

tunnel, and international airport 

MOST BUSINESS 

FRIENDY LOCATION 

• Business Ombudsman Initiative 

supporting investors and businesses 

• Serviced land costs among the 

continent’s most attractive 

• Lower Ontario corporate tax rate for 

manufacturers compared to U.S. 

• Housing costs among Canada’s most 

affordable 

• A diverse community with 22% of the 

population foreign born 

HOME TO NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL COMPANIES SUCH AS: 

AMHERSTBURG ESSEX KINGSVILLE LAKESHORE LASALLE LEAMINGTON PELEE ISLAND TECUMSEH WINDSOR 

*Source: 2014 KPMG Competitive Alternatives Study 

Marketing developed an integrated branding campaign for SBC’s 

signature event. It included: logo development, advertising 

development on radio, TV, print and online, through social media. 

Earned media and in-kind advertising was negotiated at a value over 

$30,000.00. 

20 

It’s that close: 

the U.S. market 

sits less than a 

mile away, across 

the Detroit River. 

LET’S TALK: 1-888-255-9332 

LEASE COST PER SF* 

50,000 SF, 110 employees 

invest@choosewindsoressex.com 

Amherstburg essex Kingsville lAKeshore lAsAlle leAmington Pelee islAnd tecumseh Windsor 

LABOUR COST PER EMPLOYEE* 

in ‘000s of do lars 


/windsoressex 

/weecdev 

/windsoressex 

AGRI-BUSINESS IN WINDSOR-ESSEX, ONTARIO CANADA 

A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE CENTRAL TO NORTH AMERICA 

Growing and processing with 

closest access to U.S. markets 

All the vital assets: human resources, location, climate, quality of life 

and the ability to manufacture and grow what the world needs. 

INDUSTRY 

PROFILE 

advanced manufacturing in WindSOr-eSSeX, OntariO canada 

North America’s 

manufacturing powerhouse 

INDUSTRY 

PROFILE 

1000+ 

$3.5B 

90+ 

250+ 

EDUCATION 

& RESEARCH 

University of Windsor 

212 

90+ 

2000 

Leaders in the industry – combining the people, the knowledge, 

the research and the infrastructure. 

Windsor-Essex 

toronto 

Detroit 


k EY SECTORS 

& E x PERTISE 

Key Sectors 

day growing 

season 

food & beverage 

processing 

companies 

acres of 

greenhouses 

and growing 

manufacturers 

• $112 mi lion Centre for 

• Automotive 

in the region 

Engineering Innovation 

• Aerospace 

annual GDP in 

• $500 mi lion UW/Chrysler Canada • Food Processing 

Automotive R&D Centre 

• Pharmaceutical, Nutraceutical and 

manufacturing, 

30% of region’s 

• Centre for Automotive Research 

Medical Devices 

and Education 

total 

• Light-weight materials 

auto and parts 

• $32.5 mi lion Ford Centre for 

• Clean diesel 

manufacturers Excellence in Manufacturing 

• Robotic-intensive automation 

including 2 OEMs 

• Advanced powertrain 

• Over 140 graduates annua ly in • Paint and coatings 

machine, tool, engineering and related programs • Noise vibration 

die and mold 

• 3D printing 

manufacturers 

• Design of assembly/production lines 

# employed • Large pool of available labour 

in the region’s 

• Post-secondary institutions 

professional 

o fering training in finance, 

service sector IT and HR 

annual GDP from • Over 100 language spoken, 

busines services 15% of the population speak 

sector 

more than one language 

• Almost 10% of population 

saturation of 

can speak French 

contact centre 

• Facility lease rates up to 

employment 

50% less than GTA 

projected GDP 

growth through 

2019 

LEASE COSt PER SF 

100,000 SF building 

in ‘000s of dollars 

with 100 employees 

St. Clair College 

Windsor-Essex 

toronto 

Detroit 

LABOUR COSt PER EMPLOYEE 

Source: 2014 KPMG Competitive Alternatives Study 

Expertise 

PMS286 PMS432 

Windsor-Essex 

chicago 

toronto 

LEASE coSt PER SF 




INNOVATION & 

FOOD SAFETY 

Greenhouse & Processing 

Crops Research Centre 

largest greenhouse research 

centre in North America 

Food source traceability 

Integrated pest management 

under national standard protocols 

limits need for pesticide use 

Waste mitigation 

comprehensive reduction, recycling 

and re-purposing capabilities 

Windsor-Essex 

toronto 

chicago 

LABoUR coSt PER EMPLoYEE 

in ‘000s of do lars 

Source: 2014 KPMG Competitive Alternatives Study 

info@choosewindsoressex.com 

519-255-9200 Toll Free 1-888-255-9332 


/windsoressex /weecdev /windsoressex 

S E C T O R 

w ORk FORCE 

3100 

3250 

people employed in 

agriculture industry 

people employed in 

food and beverage processing 


info@choosewindsoressex.com 

519-255-9200 Toll Free 1-888-255-9332 

/windsoressex /weecdev /windsoressex 

ON THE U.S. BORDER 

LIFE SCIENCES IN WINDSOR-ESSEX, ONTARIO CANADA 

A cross-border hub 

of research and innovation 

Linking U.S. and Canadian networks for medical equipment and 

device manufacturing , clinical trials and nutraceutical development. 

50+ 

1800 

900+ 

7500+ 

LEASE CoSt PER SF 



INDUSTRY 

PROFILE 

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES IN WINDSOR-ESSEX, ONTARIO CANADA 

Windsor-Essex 

Chicago 

toronto 

- manufacturers 

in the growing life 

sciences sector 

- life sciences 

workers in 

Windsor-Essex 

- ski led graduates 

from Windsor-Essex 

schools annually 

trained graduates 

from nearby U.S. 

institutions 

annua ly 

Low-cost facilities and 

motivated, skilled workers 

Variety of affordable infrastructure + access to vast pool of 

skilled resources = impressive ROI in Windsor-Essex 

INDUSTRY 

PROFILE 

21K+ 

$600M 



Awards 


GOLD 

The WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation was awarded a GOLD Marketing Award for its Career Fair Marketing 

Campaign from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). IEDC distinguishes the world’s best economic 

development programs and partnerships, marketing materials, as well as the year’s most influential leaders. The awards honor 

organizations and individuals for their efforts in creating positive change. 

fDi Magazine presented an award for Top Canadian Economic Development Group 2015. Out of 421 regions across North 

and South America, Windsor-Essex is one of the top two regions for the Business Friendliness Award - fDi American Cities of the 

Future Awards 2015/16. 

The WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation received an honourable mention for Top Canadian Economic 

Development Group 2015. Site Selection Magazine recognized local economic development groups based on project data, 

regional partnership, proactive and innovative programming , and quality data and Web tools and resources. 

Website & Social Media Stats 

Website 


Website 

windsoressexsmallbusiness.com 

Visitors 

Highlights 

Website Visits by country 

Visitors 

Highlights 

Returning 

visitor 

29.7% 

New 

visitor 

70.3% 

• 22,558 users 

• 70,157 page views 

• 70.3% of traffic from 

new visitors 

Canada 80.46% 

USA 9.95% 

India 1.37% 

UK .79% 

China .56% 

Returning 

visitor 

36% New 

visitor 

64% 

• 12,514 users 

• 48,198 page views 

• 64% of traffic 

from new visitors 

Other 8.24% 

SOCIAL MEDIA 

facebook.com/WindsorEssex & facebook.com/SBCWindsorEssex 

Twitter.com @weecdev & @SBCWindsorEssex 

Impressions 

Highlights 

Impressions by country 

Impressions 

Highlights 

Paid 

62% 

Viral 

19% 

Organic 

19% 

• 1,524,249 impressions 

• 864,200 users 

• 4,336 stories created 

• 3,193 likes 

• 1,148 new fans 

Canada 32% 

UAE 10% 

Germany 7.9% 

USA 5% 

UK .1% 

Other 45% 

Followers: 

2,408 Total 

1,435 New 

• 722,538 impressions 

• 1,674 link clicks 

• 1,116 mentions 

• 768 re-tweets 

21



Staff 

Office Management Coordinator 

Community Data Analyst 

Executive Liaison (from July 2015) 

Executive Liaison (to April 2015) 

Director, Marketing & Communications 

Business Ombudsman 

Business Attraction Coordinator (special project – term to January 2015) 

Director, Business Attraction (from May 2016) 

Business Attraction Coordinator (from May 2015) 

Director, Business Retention & Expansion 

Chief Executive Officer (Interim) 

Chief Executive Officer (to July 2015) 

Economic Development Officer 

Marketing & Communications Coordinator 

Kathy Bellamy 

Adam Castle 

Holly Connelly 

LeeAnne Damphouse 

Lana Drouillard 

Marion Fantetti 

Frasier Fathers 

Joe Goncalves 

Nick Kazakoff 

Lee McGrath 

Rakesh Naidu 

Sandra Pupatello 

Wendy Stark 

Lina Williams 

Information Coordinator (to July 2015) 

Executive Director 

Programs Advisor (Essex Satellite Office) 

Business Advisor (to January 2015) 

Information Coordinator (from August 2015) 

Youth Entrepreneurship Coordinator 

Business Advisor (to May 2016) 

Cassandra Capacchione 

Sabrina DeMarco 

Shannon Dyck 

Diane Malenfant 

Natasha Marar 

Sandra Vasquez 

Thanos Zikantas 

2015 Board of Directors 

Chair 

Past Chair 

Vice Chair 

Secretary/Treasurer 

Director 

Director (to December 2015) 

Director 

Director 

Director 

Director (Youth Entrepreneurship) 

Martin J. (Marty) Komsa, President & CEO, WFCU Credit Union 

Shelley Fellows, VP Operations, Radix Inc. 

Tom Bain, Warden, County of Essex and Mayor, Town of Lakeshore 

Peter Roth, Former Managing Partner Roth Mosey 

Drew Dilkens, Mayor, City of Windsor 

Kay Douglas, President, Douglas Marketing 

Peter Quiring, President, Nature Fresh Farms 

Terry Rafih, Chairman & CEO Rafih Auto Group 

Bill Thomas, President, Thomas Canning Ltd. 

Nicole Anderson, Instructor & Program Director, Entrepreneurship Practice & 

Innovation Centre (EPIC), University of Windsor, Odette School of Business 

22



Financials 

Extracted from the annual audit reports issued by BDO Canada LLP 

Statement of Financial Position As at December 31, 2015 

Actual 2015 Actual 2014 

Total Current Assets $1,073,938 $2,789,150 

Property, Plant and Equipment 28,146 38,700 

Total Assets $1,102,084 $2,827,850 

Total Current Liabilities $473,509 $880,580 

Net Assets: 

Invested in Capital Assets 28,146 38,700 

Internally Unrestricted 100,000 1,908,570 

Internally Restricted - Development Fund 500,429 1,947,270 

Total Liabilities & Net Assets $1,102,084 $2,827,850 

Statement of Operations For the year ended December 31, 2015 

Actual 2015 Actual 2014 

Revenue: 

Core Funding $2,167,932 $2,167,932 

Other Government Funding 688,611 612,760 

Other 101,385 28,672 

Total Revenue $2,957,928 $2,809,364 

Expenses: 

Program $1,060,044 $956,416 

Administrative 1,291,282 1,216,089 

Amortization 14,297 52,761 

Total Expenses $2,365,623 $2,225,266 

Revenue Over (Under) Expenses before other items $592,305 $584,098 

Repayable refund of current year contributions (211,000) – 

Excess Revenue Over (Under) Expenses $381,305 $584,098 

Net Assets, beginning of year 1,947,270 1,363,172 

Refund of Previous Years’ Contributions (1,700,000) – 

Net Assets, end of year $628,575 $1,947,270 

23

Strategic Alliances 

• Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association 

• Cross-Border Institute 

• Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium 

• Windsor-Essex County Environment Committee 

• iMiN Steering Committee 

• Canadian Tooling and Machining Association 

• Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters 

• Economic Developers Council of Ontario 

• Economic Developers Association of Canada 

• Essex Region Conservation Foundation 

• Mitacs Economic Partnership 

• Ontario Auto Mayors 

• Ontario Network of Entrepreneurs (ONE) 

• South Western Ontario Industry Education 

Council 

• International Economic Development Council 

• United Way Well-Being Advisory Committee 

• Windsor-Essex Multicultural Council 

• Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of 

Commerce 

• Leamington Chamber of Commerce 

• Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce 

• WEtech Alliance 

• Windsor-Essex Local Immigration Partnership 

• Workforce WindsorEssex 

700 California, Suite 200 

Windsor, Ontario, Canada N9B 2Z2 

519-255-9200 1-888-255-9332 

Small Business Centre (Satellite Office) 

39 Maidstone Avenue East, Unit 5 

Essex, ON N8M 2J3 

WindsorEssex Economic Development: 


/windsoressex 

/weecdev 

/windsoressex 

Small Business Centre: 

windsoressexsmallbusinesscentre.com 

/SBCwindsoressex 

/SBCwindsoressex 

/windsoressex 

AMHERSTBURG ESSEX KINGSVILLE LAKESHORE LASALLE LEAMINGTON PELEE ISLAND TECUMSEH WINDSOR

2015-annual-report

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