The historic waterfront village of Chaffeys Lock will be the host location to welcome the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) Eastern Region Professional Development Event on October 2, 2025.

In partnership with The Opinicon, the Township of Rideau Lakes successfully applied to host this year’s gathering of Economic Development professionals from across Ontario.

“The Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) is proud to present one of four regional professional development session in Rideau Lakes this October.” says Stephanie Crilly, EDCO Executive Director, “Hosting regional events across Ontario reflect EDCO’s ongoing commitment to supporting economic development professionals throughout our province. These sessions provide accessible, high-impact learning opportunities in communities where innovation and collaboration thrive. Rideau Lakes offers a unique setting that embodies the spirit of rural economic development, and we look forward to engaging with local leaders and practitioners to share insights, build connections, and strengthen our collective impact.”

KEYS Employment and Newcomer Services, Valley Heartland Community Futures Corporation, ontrac Employment Resource Services, and Leeds Grenville Economic Development have come together to support the EDCO event. Thanks to these sponsors, approximately 50 to 70 delegates will experience our growing community first-hand, and strengthen existing business networks. To showcase the area, both LeBoat and Queen’s University Biological Station have joined on to provide mini-tours of the Rideau Canal and Canada’s largest herbarium as part of the day’s agenda, paired with a culinary experience in The Opinicon dining room.

“The momentum is growing as we continue to build on programs that support our business community and improve the quality of life for our residents” remarked Mayor Hoogenboom. “We are grateful to EDCO for choosing Rideau Lakes and look forward to learning from other municipalities at the event.”

Informative session topics include Canada’s Largest Rail Trail Loop Development Project, a Workforce Development, Agri-Food, and The Border Effect. Registration is now open. For information, visit rideaulakes.ca/EDCO2025

EDCO Eastern Region Professional Development Event