Conference Celebrates Innovative Communities

Nova Scotians are taking the future into their own hands. Whether converting a military base that has outlived its role, breathing new life into seasonal industry, or attracting and keeping new immigrants, Nova Scotia communities are taking innovative approaches to their development.

Provincial and federal governments recognize the importance of fostering and supporting such innovative best practices -- and learning from others. The Nova Scotia Office of Economic Development and the Atlantic Canadian Opportunities Agency are co-sponsoring a conference, Celebrating Innovative Communities and Awards, to showcase successful communities.

The conference takes place Thursday, Nov. 17, and Friday, Nov. 18, at the Old Orchard Inn in Wolfville.

"The event will serve two primary purposes," said Ernest Fage, Nova Scotia's Minister of Economic Development. "The first is sharing knowledge, with people coming together to learn from one another. The second is to honour Nova Scotia's community leaders and to celebrate their achievements."

One highlight of the conference will be the presentation of the 2005 Celebrating Innovative Communities Awards in six categories: excellence in youth leadership, innovation in community development, excellence in collaboration, excellence in client service, outstanding achievement, and excellence in community development.

"Atlantic Canadians have learned creative thinking through necessity," said Scott Brison, Minister of Public Works and Government Services, on behalf of Joseph McGuire, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. "Communities here have been developing innovative strategies for sustainable growth for decades now -- approaches that can serve as models for communities around the globe."

The conference will attract representatives from social, cultural, heritage and environmental groups, and from all levels of government. It will bring together about 250 community leaders for workshops and panel discussions.

"Innovation is the key to their success because it increases productivity, secures markets, and expands economies," said Mr. Brison.

In presentations such as Innovation in Action: Community Success Stories and Beyond Our Borders: Community, Culture and Innovation, participants will learn how communities have turned innovative ideas into sustainable growth using novel solutions, pioneering approaches and inventive partnerships.

Presenters from across the province will be joined by speakers from England and Northern Ireland.

Jim Carroll, one of North America's leading trend and innovation experts, will give the keynote speech at the gala dinner and awards ceremony.

The conference represents progressive current thinking with a mix of global and local perspectives. "Even in a global era," said Mr. Fage, "all sustainable development is local at its core."

For more information on the conference, see the website at www.gov.ns.ca/econ/celebratingcommunity .