General News

April 27, 2021

Burlington Economic Development Releases 2020 Annual Report

Burlington, ON — April 27, 2021, Burlington Economic Development is pleased to announce the release of their 2020 Annual Report. The report presents the key challenges brought forth by COVID-19 for businesses of all sizes, highlighting the work Burlington EcDev delivered on to support business resilience and survival during the pandemic. These initiatives included advocacy work and new partnership initiatives, including the Burlington Safe Restart Grant and the launch of the Burlington Economic Recovery Network (BERN).

“Burlington EcDev didn’t hesitate to partner with the other members of Team Burlington to develop a coordinated approach to supporting businesses. One of the first things Team Burlington did was launch the Burlington Economic Recovery Network (BERN), which I am proud to Chair,” said Randall Smallbone, Chair of Burlington Economic Development and BERN. He continued, “BERN brings together key stakeholders, business leaders and elected officials to understand the needs of business during this time, strategize to support them, communicate critical information and resources, and finally, prepare for long-term economic recovery.”

The 2020 Annual Report also highlights successes and achievements from the year, including notable business expansions and progression on strategic projects. Brock University’s relocation of their satellite campus to Burlington, the launch of the new investburlington.ca website, progress on the Mayor’s Red Tape Red Carpet Taskforce, and international recognition for TechPlace are all covered.

The 2020 Annual Report also shares details on Burlington Economic Development’s priorities for 2021 as the COVID-19 pandemic continues and Burlington prepares for long-term economic recovery. According to Anita Cassidy, Executive Director of Burlington Economic Development, “The changes that 2020 have brought to the economy and Burlington community as a whole have highlighted the importance of responsive economic development and partnerships. In 2021 our team will stay committed to being flexible to the needs of the business community while maintaining strong partnerships with Team Burlington and the City of Burlington.” She continued, “Our 2020 Annual Report is the most detailed report we have published to date, and we are proud to showcase what we accomplished in 2020, and how we were able to support our business community through an extremely difficult year. However, the pandemic is not over, and it will be a long road to economic recovery. Therefore, we are looking forward to remaining focused on the work that still needs to be done.”

The full 2020 Annual Report can be viewed online here.