Moving forward
Groups come together under one roof on Water Street
SUMMERSIDE – A number of stakeholders in the Summerside business community are moving forward, finally coming under one roof at Forward Summerside. “Forward Summerside is made up of various organizations and has been established to better coordinate and integrate our many economic development activities, identify relevant priority metrics and have a shared mandate and vision,” said Tara Maddix, the Greater Summerside Chamber of Commerce Executive Director.
The multiple organizations were expecting to move into the building last year, after the initiative to come into one collective space first became an option in January 2018.
But there were a number of hiccups along the way, including ensuring the building was accessible to all from the road as well as the large task of getting the groups under one roof.
“There were some unexpected difficulties, but we’re here and that’s exciting. We’ll be a fully functioning office space by the end of the week,” said Maddix.
Now those who are looking to start a business or expand an existing one will have a one-stop-shop to turn to for advice at 201 Water Street (the former P.E.I. Mutual building).
Forward Summerside will be housed on the main floor of the building with representatives from the chamber, P.E.I Connectors, Economic Development for the City of Summerside, Innovation P.E.I., Downtown Summerside and Explore Summerside. Forward Summerside was the brainchild of a previous chamber campaign.
“The big part about this is the collaboration. It came out of our way forward conference, aimed to bring people together. I’ve already noticed a difference in how we are working together – it’s like the big picture is a lot clearer when we’re collaborating together.”
Part of the project cost was covered by the provincial government – $20,000 was contributed to help with renovations and $12,000 to help with the first year’s rent.
Former Summerside mayor Bill Martin, a vocal supporter of the initiative, said it’s fantastic to see it come to fruition.
“It’s too bad it took so long, but it makes eminent sense to have this resource. It’s a one-stop-shop where all the answers can be found.”
Cora Lee Dunbar, the regional program officer for Prince County for P.E.I. Connects is keen to get into her office space in the building. Dunbar will be in the office for about 20 hours a week and sharing the space with the city’s representative.
“It’s a natural pairing. With this sort of set in this building, we’ll have all the tools needed to help people. And it’s a great place to start and then guide inquiring minds what the next step is,” said Dunbar.
P.E.I. Connectors aims to help immigrant entrepreneurs succeed in the P.E.I. business scene.
Working in a collective space will allow for better results, she added.
“Sometimes navigating starting a business can be hard, but we’re going to try to make it easier. We will be able to act as a starting off point. There’s a lot to learn. Hopefully we’ll be able to help build the foundations for success.”