Blog
Critical Business Roundtable: Insights & Next Steps
March 19th, 2026On February 26, nearly 40 business leaders, industry representatives, and community partners gathered at the Rodd Grand Hotel in Yarmouth for the Critical Business Roundtable. Hosted collaboratively by the Western Regional Enterprise Network (Western REN), Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce, and CBDC Yarmouth, the event sparked candid discussions on the challenges…
Discover Nova Scotia’s Dark Sky T’Railway
March 12th, 2026Powered by Western REN, Fueling Local Economies Stretching more than 200 kilometres across three counties and seven municipalities, the Dark Sky T’Railway is one of Western Nova Scotia’s most connected outdoor experiences. It links Shelburne, Yarmouth and Digby County communities, businesses and coastal landscapes. And it welcomes walkers, runners, cyclists,…
Two Paths, One Connection: Direct Entry Pathways
February 18th, 2026A practical solution for skilled trades hiring: paid apprenticeships for learners and reduced risk for employers. By Shelley Bellefontaine, Connector Program Coordinator Editor’s Note: Hiring in the skilled trades is challenging. And for many individuals, traditional post-secondary pathways simply don’t fit. The Direct Entry Pathway through the Western Regional Enterprise…
The Western REN February Update
February 11th, 2026February is all about connection, leadership, and looking ahead. It’s all part of the ongoing work to build a stronger, more resilient economy across Western Nova Scotia. Critical Roundtable Breakfast: Navigating Business Challenges in 2026 Critical Issues. Real Conversations. Regional Solutions. The Western REN in partnership with Yarmouth & Area Chamber of Commerce and CBDC…
What’s 2026 Going to Look Like for You and Your Business?
January 6th, 2026By Wade Cleveland Welcome to the early days of 2026. It’s a great time for businesses to take a moment to reflect on where they’ve been, and to think seriously about where they’re going. In Western Nova Scotia, that question feels especially important right now. The past few years have…
The Power of Networking: How Connections Spark Opportunity
December 9th, 2025If there’s one thing rural Nova Scotia does exceptionally well, it’s connection. The real kind of connection. The kind built over coffees at the wharf, surprise chats at the grocery store, and those unexpected meetups where someone says, “Hey, you should talk to so-and-so.” Here in Western Nova Scotia, our…
Western Nova Scotia’s One-of-a-Kind Christmas Tree Tradition
December 2nd, 2025There’s a moment every year – often the first time you spot a strand of lights glowing through the cold – when the holiday spirit settles in. In Western Nova Scotia, that moment has taken on a distinctly coastal charm. Our region has embraced a Christmas tradition that’s as unique…
The Western REN December Roundup
November 26th, 2025Our Second Annual Toy Drive Is On NOW This season, let’s come together to make Christmas brighter for children in need. Until Thursday, December 11th, we’re collecting new, unwrapped toys to help brighten Christmas for children in need across our region. If you’d like to take part, simply drop your…