The Town of Cobourg’s Economic Development Department has been honoured with an Award of Excellence from the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) for its Workforce Development and Talent Attraction efforts in a rural community.
The award was presented on Feb. 6 at the EDCO President’s Dinner in Toronto. Cobourg was recognized for its workforce development programs launched in 2024 in collaboration with Venture13. The programs included a Skilled Trades Career Day, a Youth Policetech Accelerator Pitch Competition, a Skilled Trades Bootcamp, and STEM camps aimed at youth.
“I’m deeply honoured to accept this award on behalf of the Town of Cobourg,” said Daniel Van Kampen, Manager of Economic Development. “It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and partners at Venture13.”
The award follows Cobourg’s adoption of its first Economic Development and Venture13 Strategy and Action Plan in June 2023. The town’s economic development team is working to implement the plan through 2028 to foster workforce growth and talent development.
Venture13 serves as a regional hub for entrepreneurship, partnering with organizations such as nventure, Cobourg Police Services, and the Northumberland Manufacturers’ Association. More information on its programs is available at venture13.ca.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
