The Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission (COEDC) is the primary regional economic development agency for the Central Okanagan, covering areas like Kelowna, West Kelowna, Peachland, and Lake Country. Established to drive economic growth, the COEDC provides a wide range of resources and services to local businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs. It supports various sectors, including agriculture, technology, manufacturing, health, and aerospace
One of COEDC’s key roles is to facilitate business development by offering personalized support and strategic connections. Through initiatives like their Connector Program, the COEDC helps businesses access talent and grow by linking them with key partners, customers, and resources in the Okanagan. They also provide tailored guidance for new and established businesses, helping them overcome challenges such as navigating government regulations and accessing capital
The COEDC is proactive in building a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, organizing events like the annual Business Walks during Small Business Month, where they gather feedback from local entrepreneurs and provide direct support to address concerns. This data-driven approach informs their year-round efforts to enhance the local business climate
Additionally, the COEDC offers sector-specific support, especially for industries like agriculture and digital technology, which are integral to the region’s economy. For instance, the COEDC provides expert advice to farmers and agri-tourism businesses to help them innovate and grow
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