A New Chapter: Western REN’s 5-Year Strategy
The Western REN is proud to share something big with you: our brand-new 5-Year Economic Development Strategy for 2025–2030. Titled “The Next Decade,” this plan charts an ambitious course for the future of Southwest Nova Scotia — one that’s built on innovation, resilience, and collaboration.
Whether you’re a business owner, a municipal partner, or someone who calls this region home, this strategy is about you and our collective future.
Why This Strategy Matters
Over the past decade, Western REN has helped our region weather both a global pandemic and devestating wildfires. We navigated shifting demographics, advocated for rural infrastructure, and supported hundreds of local businesses. We’ve built a strong foundation — and now, it’s time to build on that momentum.
Our new strategy focuses on three key pillars:
- Fostering public sector investment – From digital infrastructure to climate adaptation and housing, we’re supporting smart, sustainable growth across the region.
- Fostering private sector investment – We’re helping local businesses adapt, diversify, and lead in emerging sectors such as renewable energy, aquaculture, and advanced manufacturing.
- Addressing talent needs – We’re continuing our work to attract and retain skilled workers and strengthen workforce readiness.
Each pillar is rooted in feedback from across our region — from town and municipal councils to small business owners to community organizations. We also heard from residents through surveys and consultations. Your voice shaped this plan.
What’s New?
We’re introducing some powerful new tools to help track progress, adapt to change, and deliver results:
- A Resiliency Index to measure how well businesses are adapting to disruption
- Public dashboards to share data on investment, workforce, sustainability, and tourism
- Regular progress updates, because accountability matters
“This strategy is not just a roadmap for growth; it is a commitment to our funding partners, our business community and our region,” says Angélique LeBlanc, CEO of the Western REN. “Together, we will build a sustainable and prosperous future, driven by innovation and guided by our core values.”
Let’s Shape the Next Decade — Together
Whether you’re an entrepreneur exploring new markets, a local leader championing housing solutions, or a community member with big ideas, we invite you to be part of this journey.
Explore the full plan, share your thoughts, and follow along as we work together to shape a resilient, innovative, and sustainable economy for Western Nova Scotia.
Read our full Strategic Plan here.