CREDA File

Welcome to the CREDA File, a monthly column on economic development issues and activities in Cumberland County from the files of the Cumberland Regional Economic Development Association - published monthly in the Citizen newspaper.

March 2009

 

CREDA, the Municipality of the County of Cumberland, and Nova Scotia Economic and Rural Development are pleased to present E-Marketing Your Organization in the 21st Century, a workshop designed specifically for volunteer groups. Facilitated by Gordon Cameron, this one-day workshop will be held on Monday, March 23rd from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Tantramar Theatre, 98 Victoria Street East, Amherst.

Technology and its applications have advanced significantly in the last decade. It is much more user friendly and its overall use within the general population is increasing at an exponential rate. This workshop is designed to allow the participants to explore some of the recent applications of the new technology which may improve their organization in its marketing plans. Topics covered will include an overview of new technology, using technology to communicate and promote your organization, and gaining support for fundraising activities on the Internet.

Volunteer groups and organizations are asked to please pre-register for this free workshop and luncheon no later than March 18th by calling 667-3638.

 

CREDA has partnered with a third party service provider, YLM – Your Local Marketplace, to offer the Cumberland County “Online Business Directory”. This new Directory is the most comprehensive and up-to-date online database of Cumberland County businesses to be found anywhere. All Cumberland County based businesses are provided with a basic listing that includes contact information, a brief marketing message, searchable key words, a locator map, services icons, hours of operation and website link. These listings will showcase our local businesses on the CREDA website, the Province of Nova Scotia online directory and internationally across the Internet.

CREDA encourages new businesses, or any who may be missing from the Directory to register free of charge. For assistance contact the YLM toll free help desk at 1-888-741-3488 ext. 123.

 

CREDA is partnering with the Department of Labour and Workforce Education and CBDC Cumberland in the ‘Small Business Essential Skills Program’ for the Springhill business community. The program has a designated project team with a mandate to bring the program to the development stages and have identified a need for tourism related training. The project team will participate in a ‘needs assessment’ this month with curriculum to be developed based on this evaluation. The Small Business Essential Skills Program has had previous success in the Towns of Amherst and Parrsboro through basic computer and communication skills training.

 

The 2009 Central Woodland Owner Conference will be held on Saturday, April 4th at Musquodoboit Valley Education Centre in Middle Musquodoboit. This annual gathering for woodland owners from Cumberland County to HRM is an excellent opportunity to network with other owners, to hear expert speakers on a number of relevant topics, and to view exhibits. Registration fee is $25 and that includes a hearty lunch and a chance to win some great prizes, including the grand prize of a new chainsaw. To register call toll free 1-866-477-2494 or register on line at www.woodlotinfoshop.ca. People who pre-register qualify to win a GPS unit. The registration desk opens at 8:30 on the day of the conference with the first session at 9:00 a.m.

 

If you have any questions or want further information regarding CREDA call 667-3638. CREDA is Quality System registered to ISO 9001:2000.