Lanark County Wins Workforce Development Award from the Economic Developers Council of Ontario

Press Release – Lanark County 

The Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) has honored Lanark County with the prestigious Workforce Development and Talent Attraction Award. This accolade recognizes the county's outstanding efforts in fostering workforce development and enhancing economic growth within the community through the “Land in Lanark Campaign.”

The criteria for the Workforce Development and Talent Attraction Award include effectiveness, innovation and creativity, collaboration, and economic impact in the community.

The “Land in Lanark" project was launched in response to ongoing labor shortages and an aging population. Lanark County developed a strategic digital campaign aimed at attracting skilled professionals, particularly immigrants residing in Canada's urban centers, to relocate to the county's rural communities.

The Land in Lanark campaign was part of the County’s Rural Community Inclusion Pilot Project, a collaborative initiative between Lanark and Renfrew counties and funded by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness’ (OMAFA) Rural Economic Development (RED) program. Our mission is to create a more inclusive, diverse, and economically vibrant community by connecting local businesses with skilled newcomers and fostering a welcoming environment.

The primary objective of the six-week digital campaign, which ran from July to August 2024, was to position Lanark County as a top destination for immigrants seeking both meaningful employment and a balanced lifestyle. The campaign highlighted the county's rural charm, abundant amenities, and quality of life, targeting recruits with necessary skills in healthcare and the trades.

The campaign achieved remarkable success, significantly exceeding its objectives. It garnered nearly 3 million impressions across various digital platforms, including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Google, YouTube, and LinkedIn. The campaign also resulted in substantial engagement, with 119 inquiries submitted through the campaign's dedicated landing page.

"We are thrilled to receive this recognition from EDCO," said Toby Randell, Warden of Lanark County. "This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and partners who have worked tirelessly to create a thriving workforce. We remain committed to continuing our efforts to support our community and drive economic prosperity."

The Workforce Development Award is one of the highest honors bestowed by EDCO, celebrating excellence in economic development practices. Lanark County's achievement underscores its commitment to fostering a robust and resilient workforce, positioning the county as a leader in economic development.

Land in Lanark Campaign materials can be found here: https://www.lanarkcounty.ca/en/doing-business/land-in-lanark.aspx