Monday marked the first day of operations for Prince Edward Island Business Development Inc. (PEIBDI), formerly Enterprise PEI, the lead business development agency for the province. New legislation recently proclaimed defines more accurately the focus and direction of the business development effort in the province.
"Not only has there been a change in identity with this new legislation, but there has also been a refocussing of government's business development resources and efforts in order to assist Island entrepreneurs more effectively," said the Honourable Don MacKinnon, Minister of Development. "In order to continue to build partnerships with Island business, PEIBDI has streamlined its approach to concentrate solely on business development initiatives across the province, redirecting its resources and efforts accordingly."
To accomplish its business development goals, PEIBDI has implemented six new divisions: Business Expansion, New Business Development, Food and Value Added Products, Trade and Export Development, Asset Management, and Marketing. Through a client focussed approach, it is now easier than ever for clients to determine their point of entry into the corporation.
"Through PEIBDI, we will target the businesses and people directly responsible for growing the Island economy to ensure that we are focussing our efforts in the best possible ways," said Minister MacKinnon.
"We are working with Island entrepreneurs from across the province to assist them in advancing sound business development initiatives," said Charles Coll, new Chief Executive Officer for PEIBDI. "Whether entrepreneurs are looking to expand their operations, begin exporting their products, or want to start a new business here in PEI, our corporation can tailor programs to suit individual needs."
Minister MacKinnon also made note of the two external board members appointed as part of the proclamation process. "I would like to take this opportunity to welcome Martina MacDonald of Cardigan and Nora Dorgan of Sea Cow Pond to the board. Each of them play an important role in bringing valuable business concerns, issues, and thoughts to the table. Their involvement demonstrates the government's recognition that those views are critical to the proper function of a corporation whose sole activity is working with the business sector."
By focussing its efforts on business development initiatives, PEIBDI will carry out a variety of business related responsibilities. It will work to solicit and support investment, creating jobs and wealth for Prince Edward Island; actively support small business; encourage entrepreneurship and investment risk sharing; provide leadership in the trade development and export initiatives of the province; and actively promote PEI as a competitive place to do business.
If you would like more information on the programs and services offered by Prince Edward Island Business Development, contact them directly at (902) 368-6300 or visit them on the Internet at www.peibusinessdevelopment.com.