The Western REN February Update

February 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 Yarmouth, is bringing together business and community leaders from across Yarmouth and the Southwest region for a Critical Issues Roundtable Breakfast..

Stakeholders and business leaders are all welcome. The Roundtable is designed to move beyond presentations and into open, candid discussion. Participants will have the opportunity to share the most pressing challenges facing our region, exchange perspectives with peers, and explore practical, collaborative solutions that can help move our economy and communities forward.

From workforce and infrastructure to housing, investment, energy and regional competitiveness, this is a space for real talk, informed insight, and collective problem-solving.

A buffet breakfast will be provided, and the conversation will be facilitated to ensure all voices at the table are heard. The cost is $30.00, including brakfast

This session is made possible with the support of Nova Scotia Power, reinforcing a shared commitment to strengthening rural and regional economies.

Space is limited. Register early and be part of a conversation that matters.

Build Your Workforce With Our Connector Program’s Direct Entry Pathway

Hiring skilled workers is tough.

The Direct Entry Apprenticeship Pathway offers a practical way to grow your team while training future trades professionals.

Through the Western REN’s Connector Program, employers can:

• Hire motivated, work-ready apprentices
• Provide paid, on-the-job training
• Access tuition-free technical training
• Potentially receive START wage funding
• Get hands-on support, including candidate vetting and introductions

Connector Program Coordinator Shelley Bellefontaine works directly with employers to explore how the Direct Entry Pathway could work for their business.

Interested? Connect with Shelley to learn more.

Welcome to Two New Voices on the Western REN Board

We’re pleased to welcome Paul Emile LeBlanc and Dustin Atkinson to the Western REN Board of Directors.

Both bring deep regional roots, strong financial and leadership experience, and a shared commitment to supporting long-term economic development across Western Nova Scotia. From co-operative banking and community leadership to professional accounting and firsthand experience with Western REN programs, their perspectives will help guide our work in the years ahead.

Meet our newest Board members and learn more about the role of the Western REN Board here:

Partner Event: IGNITING Women in Business — February 18

Ignite Atlantic’s IGNITING Women in Business series returns on February 18 (6–8 PM) with guest speaker Melissa Pike.

This energizing session focuses on boundaries, mindset, and building a version of success that’s sustainable, not exhausting.

Melissa will share practical, real-world tools to help women entrepreneurs protect their energy, challenge burnout-driven beliefs, and reframe self-care as a strength.

Expect honest conversation, actionable takeaways, and a fresh perspective on what success can look like.

Thank you for being part of Western Nova Scotia’s business and workforce ecosystem.