JEDI - Joint Economic Development Initiative
The History
The Joint Economic Development Initiative (commonly referred to as JEDI) is a not-for-profit society that was incorporated in Alberta in May of 2003. It is entirely funded by its three municipal partners: the City of Wetaskiwin, Town of Millet, and County of Wetaskiwin. Building upon a strong history of successfully working together, the three communities sought to establish an industrial development organization that would promote the region comprised of the three municipalities as a great place to relocate, start, or expand an industrial operation.
The Activities
JEDI plays a strong role in marketing the region as a great place to do business, but it does much more than act as a promotions coordinator - JEDI strives to create an environment where new or existing industry can achieve success. By compiling data, gathering information, and conducting research, JEDI can monitor emerging trends in industrial development and work to overcome obstacles today that may become constraints tomorrow. For example, participating in initiatives like labour force development working groups, with partners like the City of Wetaskiwin, Alberta Human Resources and Employment, local industry, and the Four Bands means JEDI is taking a proactive role in alleviating labour shortage concerns in the region. And while JEDI responds quickly and accurately to industry looking to the JEDI region for expansion or relocation, it also has the tools and ability to assist existing industry with business planning, expansion plans, accessing new markets, or exporting products. Because of partnerships with organizations like the Central Alberta Economic Partnership, Alberta Economic Development, AlbertaFirst.com, the BusinessLink, and Industry Canada, JEDI has access to an immeasurable wealth of information and experts that can help industry in the region with virtually any question.
The People
JEDI is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of the CAO, Mayor or Reeve, and one Councillor from each of the three municipalities. The Director of Economic Development is Richard Horncastle who holds a Certificate in Economic Development from the University of Waterloo. His previous Economic Development experience includes the Town of Vegreville, and Canada’s fastest growing community, the Town of Sylvan Lake. JEDI’s Office Manager is Lisa Wismer who graduated from SAIT with a Technology Enhanced diploma in Business Administration with a Major in Marketing.
