The Quinte Economic Development Commission (QEDC) was pleased to learn that their Target Market Study prepared by McSweeney & Associates has received National recognition from the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC)!

The first place award in the "Research Findings - Printed Publications" category was awarded for the Target Market Study prepared for the QEDC by McSweeney & Associates, in association with TD Graham & Associates and Kate McEnroe Consulting. The study aims to assist with promoting business investment in the Bay of Quinte Area.

The study joined over 300 other submissions from Canadian provinces, territories, regions, cities, towns and areas. All entries were judged by a panel with specialized areas of expertise from throughout Canada. The competition allowed local communities to see just how they measure up against other municipalities from across Canada when it comes to promoting location, investment, economic and tourism opportunities.

The McSweeney/Quinte entry contained detailed analysis of the local economy and recommended industry sectors targeted for attraction. It also contained an extensive section on marketing to assist with implementing the steps outlined in the report.

"The judges were impressed with the level of research that was actually done in this study," said Penny Gardiner, Executive Director of EDAC. "They really liked the empirical data."

"On behalf of the Commission, I would like to say how proud we are that this important work was awarded the first place award within our budget category. The Target Market Study has provided us with a renewed sense of vision and focus, and is really starting to drive the results we desire. The Commission congratulates McSweeney & Associates and our staff for the hard work that went into this project" - stated QEDC Board Chair, John Williams.