For Information Only Presented: Tuesday, Feb 28, 2017 Report Date Wednesday, Feb 08, GSDC Board Update to Council 2017 Type: Presentations

Presented To: City Council For Information Only Presented: Tuesday, Feb 28, 2017 Report Date Wednesday, Feb 08, GSDC Board Update to Council 2017 Type: Presentations

Resolution Signed By For Information Only

Recommended by the Department Finance Implications Ian Wood Director of Economic Development There are no financial implications. Digitally Signed Feb 8, 17 Recommended by the C.A.O. Ed Archer Chief Administrative Officer Digitally Signed Feb 10, 17 BACKGROUND

As per the motion passed by the City of Greater Sudbury Priorities Committee on February 21, 2007, the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation (GSDC) will provide updates on progress with respect to investments in economic development projects, programs and activities. The following is a synopsis of the projects that have received financial support and their expected economic impact for Greater Sudbury.

The GSDC is the economic development arm of the City of Greater Sudbury. The Board of Directors is comprised of fourteen community volunteers and four members of City Council. The GSDC Board is entrusted by City Council to oversee investment decisions using municipal dollars and has the fiduciary responsibility to ensure that investments align with our economic development strategic plan and advance our city and its economy.

The following report summarizes the activities of the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation and the City’s Economic Development Division between June 2016 and December 2016. These activities include investments made by the GSDC through the Economic Development Fund, details on the recipients of the Arts and Culture Operating and Project Grants, the results of the GSDC’s Board Prioritization Session for 2017, as well as highlighted activities supporting the goals of the From the Ground Up strategic plan.

INVESTMENTS IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS (June 2016 – December 2016)

Between June 2016 and December 2016, the GSDC Board has approved support for four projects through the Economic Development Fund totaling $141,000. These funds will leverage an estimated additional $2,726,689 from other sources. The investments are expected to directly result in the creation of 15 permanent full-time job and 14 temporary or permanent part-time positions.

In addition to direct job creation, these projects will have a significant indirect impact on the local economy and the community as a whole.

1. Rainbow Routes-Take a Hike

GSDC Board Motion #2016-064 Passed August 3rd, 2016

WHEREAS From the Ground Up acknowledges that non-motorized trails help contribute to our quality of life and place, as well as the importance of improving choice and connectivity of transportation routes through the support of organizations like Rainbow Routes Association; and,

WHEREAS Rainbow Routes Association is preparing to launch the Take a Hike project to increase programming and awareness; boost organizational capacity; and, implement new tracking and reporting infrastructure to assist in ongoing trail development, way-finding and infrastructure gaps, as well as help direct and inform their promotional efforts; and,

WHEREAS Rainbow Routes Association acknowledges and will work to increase promotional efforts of the trail system as a tourism offering;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation support Rainbow Routes’ Economic Development Fund request in the amount of $9,000 for Take a Hike project; and,

That Rainbow Routes Association report on deliverables as outlined in the application; and,

Further, that the Sudbury Tourism logo be supported and used on its communication materials.

Project Description Rainbow Routes is launching the “Take a Hike” project to increase their programming and user experience as well as increasing their ability to track, analyze and report data that will support their ongoing efforts in trail development and promotion. In late 2016 the project was renamed to “Explore Sudbury”. Explore Sudbury will hire one full time staff for up to two years, will increase user and volunteer engagement and participation, will purchase and install trail counters, and review and improve the way- finding infrastructure. As the project is heavily funded by the Ontario Sport and Recreation Community Fund, the programming will have a broad mandate to promote a number of safe, convenient and enjoyable routes to the whole community. The program is intended to be inclusive of all community members, but there will be special attention to low income families and the tourism marketing potential. Rainbow Routes Association will work with Tourism staff to review the local and external marketing potential of the hikes, and ensure promotion is developed in both French and English.

2. March of Dimes- ABI Housing

GSDC Board Motion #2016-065 Passed August 3rd, 2016

WHEREAS the March of Dimes is seeking the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation’s support for the construction of a new supportive housing facility for individuals suffering an acquired brain injury; and,

WHEREAS this project will generate significant employment; and

WHEREAS the Community Economic Development Strategic Plan for Greater Sudbury, From the Ground Up, identifies a being a Leader in Health and Life Sciences as one of its nine economic development goals; and

WHEREAS the March of Dimes has a proven track record in providing supportive housing to individuals suffering an acquired brain injury;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation Board of Directors support the March of Dimes with a contribution from the Economic Development Fund of: • $75,000 in 2016; and, • $75,000 in 2017

THAT this funding be conditional upon the achievement of the proponent’s fundraising goals and be subject to a 10 per cent holdback to be released upon project completion; and,

FURTHER, that the City of Greater Sudbury logo be supported and used on all communication materials, billboards, plaques, etc. associated with the project.

Project Description The March of Dimes is proposing to build a new supportive housing facility for individuals living with the effects of an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) on the same site as the existing Wade Hampton House, located at 2915 Bancroft Drive. The new building will be similar in design and purpose to the Wade Hampton House (built in 2011) in terms of layout and configuration, but will be a 12,300 sq. ft. purpose-built facility as opposed to a retrofit of an existing 9,700 sq ft. former school. The new facility will include six bedrooms in the congregate living section as well as six apartments to enable some residents a higher degree of independence. In addition to the accommodation space, the facility will also include a large shared living room, a smaller living room/den, games room, a large shared kitchen/dining area, laundry facilities, meeting space, and offices. This new facility is expected to sustain over 27 net new jobs (14 full-time and 13 part-time positions. However, the project is waiting on matching funding from various funders before moving forward with construction.

3. Replenishment of Special Projects Fund

GSDC Board Motion #2016-067 Passed September 14th, 2016

That the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation Board of Directors approves the allocation of $45,000 from the 2016 Economic Development Fund to the GSDC Special Projects Fund.

Special Projects Fund Description The Special Projects Fund is used at the discretion of the GSDC Executive Committee, to provide support of up to $10,000 at a time to initiatives that advance the goal of economic development within Greater Sudbury.

A list of projects that have been supported between May 2015 and December 2016 is detailed below:

Naturalia Conference $5,000 AMRIC- BioMe Conference $1,500 Laurentian University- sponsorship for Bureau des affaires Francophones $5,000 Northern Ontario Business Awards sponsorship $3,500 International Student Recruitment Familiarization Tour $10,000 Synergy Centre $10,000 Bridges to Better Business Conference $10,000 Goodman School of Mines- Goodman Gold Challenge $2,500 Sudbury Game Design Challenge $2,000 Total Paid and Committed Funds : $49, 500

4. Downtown Sudbury - Win This Space

GSDC Board Motion #2016-075 Passed November 9th, 2016

WHEREAS the Downtown Sudbury BIA represents downtown businesses and property owners with the aim of supporting the growth of the downtown; and,

WHEREAS the Downtown Sudbury BIA is seeking the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation’s support for its first ever “Win This Space” competition in an effort to spur entrepreneurship in the downtown; and,

WHEREAS the “Win This Space” competition is an innovative business recruitment initiative, designed to encourage new and aspiring entrepreneurs to put their business ideas into action; and,

WHEREAS the Community Economic Development Strategic Plan for Greater Sudbury, From the Ground Up, identifies the development of more business incubation spaces and downtown revitalization as stated goals;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation Board of Directors support Downtown Sudbury’s request with a contribution of $12,000 from the Economic Development Fund; and,

THAT Downtown Sudbury report on the deliverables identified in the application; and,

THAT this funding be subject to a 10 per cent holdback to be released upon project completion; and,

FURTHER, that the City of Greater Sudbury logo be supported and used on all communication materials, billboards, plaques, etc. associated with the project.

Project Description Win This Space is an innovative business recruitment initiative, designed to encourage new and aspiring entrepreneurs to put their business ideas into action. Contestants will submit their business idea for a chance to win up to one year’s free rent in a vacant commercial space in downtown Greater Sudbury as well as thousands of dollars worth of products and services from BIA member businesses. Participating property owners will be encouraged to post special “Win This Space” signage in the vacant commercial properties. The Regional Business Centre will provide support to contestants as the develop their business plans.

INVESTMENTS IN ARTS AND CULTURE 2016

During the June 2016 meeting of the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation’s Board of Directors, the Board provided support to the successful applicants to the City of Greater Sudbury’s 2016 Arts and Culture Operating and Project Grant Funds.

Established in 2005, the City of Greater Sudbury’s Arts and Culture Grant Program stimulates the growth and development of this important economic sector, increases its potential to attract and retain a talented and creative workforce and is an investment in the quality of life for all residents.

The program is administered by the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation (GSDC) which has approved more than $5.4 million in funding to nearly 100 local arts and culture organizations. This investment has lead to the employment of more than 100 artists, the realization of dozens of festivals and an estimated overall return of $11.38 for every $1 spent.

In 2016, the GSDC Board approved funding for 43 arts and culture organizations through both Operating and Project Grant streams, for a total of $751,468 committed by the municipality.

2016 Arts and Culture Operating Grant Fund

GSDC Board Motion #2016-045 Passed June 15th, 2016

That the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation Board of Directors provide support from the 2016 Arts & Culture Operating Grant Fund to the applicants listed below.

2016 Funding Applicant Recommendation Galerie du Nouvel-Ontario $39,100 Cinéfest Sudbury $36,800 Carrefour francophone de $46,000 Sudbury Le Théâtre du Nouvel-Ontario $46,000 Northern Lights Festival Boréal $27,500 Éditions Prise de parole $38,000 Centre franco-ontarien de $8,000 folklore Sudbury Symphony Orchestra $36,000 Cultural Industries Ontario North $9,000 Myths and Mirrors Community $16,000 Arts Jazz Sudbury $28,125 Les Concerts La Nuit sur l'étang $15,802 Le Salon du livre du Grand $31,250 Sudbury Sudbury Theatre Centre $54,000 TOTAL $431,577

And that multi-year funding be recommended for La Galerie du Nouvel- Ontario, Carrefour francophone de Sudbury, le Théâtre du Nouvel-Ontario, Cinéfest Sudbury Film Festival, Northern Lights Festival Boréal and Editions Prise de parole pending appropriate reporting requirements, and

That the City of Greater Sudbury logo be used on all of their promotional and communications materials, and

Further, that all recipients be requirement to submit a year-end report.

Note: An additional $25,000 was committed to Theatre Cambrian after the passing of this motion and is to be included in the total for 2016 Operating Arts and Culture Grant Fund. This brings the total amount committed to $456,577.

2016 Arts and Culture Project Grant Fund

GSDC Board Motion #2016-046 Passed June 15th, 2016

That the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation Board of Directors provide support from the 2016 Arts & Culture Project Grant Fund to the applicants listed below.

2016 Funding Applicant Recommendation Café-musique productions of Rayside- Balfour $6,000 We Live Up Here (UpFest) $2,990 Youth Entertaining Sudbury Theatre $15,000 Sudbury Multicultural & Folk Arts Association $10,000 Pat the Dog Playwright Development Centre $2,975 Fiddleworks of Rayside-Balfour $4,000 La Gang à Popa Inc. $1,000 Valley Community Theatre $3,750 NISA/Northern Initiative for Social Action $7,000 Sudbury Arts Council $1,500 Ukrainian Seniors' Centre (Garlic Festival) $2,500 Wordstock $2,999 Sudbury Youth Orchestra $2,000 Northern Artist Gallery (Artists on Elgin) $3,278 Sudbury Downtown Independent Cinema Co-operative $1,500 Northern Ontario Railroad Museum & Heritage Centre $5,000 N'Swakamok Native Friendship Center $2,999 Nickel City Wind Ensemble $1,000 No Strings Attached Community Band $1,000 Downtown Sudbury Art Crawl $2,500 Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann Sudbury Irish Arts Association $2,500 The Young Sudbury Singers $2,500 Rayside Balfour Whitewater Brush Art & $1,000

2016 Funding Applicant Recommendation Palette Club Fierté Sudbury Pride $2,900 Maawnjidmi Getting Together $3,000 New Sudbury Days $1,500 Gallery 6500 $2,000 Jubilee Folk Ensemble $500 TOTAL PROJECT GRANTS $94,891

And that the City of Greater Sudbury logo be used on all of their promotional and communications materials, and

That all recipients be requirement to submit a year-end report.

GSDC BOARD PRIORITIZATION SESSION

During the month of November, the GSDC Board completed a project prioritization session for 2017. The purpose of this initiative was to delineate the Board’s priorities and, potentially, resources into specific areas of focus. Choosing these priority projects does not mean that the Board will not approve funding or support other projects that do not fit in these four categories.

The process began with staff providing the Board with over 60 projects and descriptions. Each board member selected their top 10 projects through an online poll. Once the overall results of the poll were produced a special Board meeting took place to discuss the projects and possible next steps.

At the special meeting on November 21st , the Board selected four projects as priorities for 2017. These projects are:

1. Mining Super Cluster 2. Seed Capital Fund 3. Convention/Synergy Centre 4. Indigenous Economic Partnership Development

Economic Development staff have been assigned as task leaders to each project and are working with the Board to ensure that these goals move forward.

FROM THE GROUND UP ACTIVITIES

The following is a summary of Economic Development staff’s activities between June 2016 and December 2016 in support of the goals from the GSDC’s From the Ground Up strategic plan. Additionally, relevant events and achievements by key community partners have been included in the following activity report.

A WELCOMING AND OPEN COMMUNITY

Immigration Events Staff promoted and participated in federal immigration consultations entitled “Canada’s Continuing Story of Immigration-The Next Chapter.” The objective was to ensure that the views and concerns of the City of Greater Sudbury were included in the federal government’s strategic planning process. The consultation included a presentation by Arif Virani, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship.

Staff attended the fourth annual Pathways to Prosperity National Conference in Ottawa. The theme of this year’s conference is “Shaping Immigration to Canada: Learning from the Past and a Vision for the Future”. The conference opened with an address by the Hon. John McCallum, Minister for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, setting the tone for discussions of the future of immigration to Canada.

Staff coordinated the first meeting of the new Newcomer, Refugee and Immigration Advisory Panel which has been established to advise City Council on matters related to newcomers, immigrants and refugees. The Advisory Panel is intended to expand engagement to stakeholders currently not included in the Local Immigration Partnership (LIP), and to expand the discussions around inclusion, integration and efforts to create a welcoming community.

The City hosted its annual Mayor's Student Welcome Reception on September 19th. The event was held at Dynamic Earth and geared towards incoming immigrant, refugee and international students and Canadian students new to Greater Sudbury. The event was well attended by both students from the three post secondary institutions and members of the community.

GSDC staff partnered with the Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS) to host an education and sensitization workshop. The workshop was entitled “Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace” and designed to facilitate a conversation around workplace diversity and inclusion. The session was facilitated by Dr. Amadou Ba, lecturer in the Political Science Department at Laurentian University.

GSDC staff participated in the Anti-Racism Community Meeting on October 15th. The meeting was one of nine community meetings across the province to engage with the public on addressing systemic racism and eliminating barriers for Indigenous and 9

racialized communities. The community meeting was hosted by Michael Coteau, Minister responsible for Anti-Racism. There were approximately 20 people from the community in attendance.

The Basic Translator Training Workshop was held on December 13th at Tom Davies Square. The workshop was designed to introduce volunteer translators/interpreters to the ethical principles and standards of professional practice and open to translators of all languages.

GSDC staff attended two events in Toronto: Newcomers Canada Career and Settlement Fair and the Immigrant Business Expo. The Newcomers Canada Career and Settlement Fair featured a broad spectrum of information, products and services relevant to newly arrived or settled migrants in Ontario. The Immigrant Business Expo (IBE) was a one- day exhibition including workshops and small business clinics assisting new immigrant and refugee business owners.

Syrian Refugee Resettlement On November 9th Greater Sudbury welcomed its fifth Syrian refugee family. City staff were among a delegation to greet the family at the Greater Sudbury Airport. Staff also provided support to sponsoring group, Northern Hope – Ontario Baptist Ministries, in connecting with municipal, provincial and federal agencies and services. The total number of Syrian refugees to make Greater Sudbury their home now stands at 45 new residents.

Other Immigration Activities Staff provided support to Laurentian University for a community tour for incoming immigrant, refugee and international students for Laurentian University. Staff have also been working with Collège Boréal to develop an orientation program for its incoming immigrant, refugee and international students, which will be offered during the upcoming orientation sessions.

GSDC staff are working with counterparts in other northeastern Ontario municipalities to develop the “Northeastern Ontario Immigration Portal”. The objective is to develop an online immigration portal to attract and retain newcomers to northeastern Ontario. The new portal will present information for up to 30 communities ranging from cities to towns to rural municipalities, from the Quebec border in the east, to Algoma District in the west, a catchment area which includes the City of Greater Sudbury.

GSDC staff continue to meet with the Sudbury Public Library to assist them in addressing the needs on the immigrants, refugees and newcomers within the city. Recommendations have been made for changes to the library website to include a “newcomer” tab . Staff are also working with the library for a dedicated promotional space for immigrant service providers and to plan targeted programs

THE GLOBAL LEADER IN MINING SUPPLY AND SERVICES INDUSTRY

Northern Ontario Exports Program On May 25th, Federal Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Navdeep Bains, and Sudbury MPP Glenn Thibeault, respectively announced FedNor and NOHFC funding of $952,200, each, towards Phase 3 of the Northern Ontario Exports Program. The announcement took place at B&D Manufacturing in Chelmsford, highlighting the company’s participation in an earlier phase of the program. Over the next two years, the Northern Ontario Exports Program will assist 20 companies in developing export strategies and marketing/sales plans, another 15 companies with additional consulting on previously developed plans, 10 companies through customized sales training, approximately 80 companies through export marketing assistance, as well as additional value-added workshops, two Northern Ontario Export Forums, and the Northern Ontario Pavilion and Reception at MINExpo 2016. A key feature of the Phase 3 program is the abilitity for staff to work with a number of companies outside of the mining supply and services sector on their export development. The Northern Ontario Exports Program is made possible with the support of $30,000 from the GSDC.

Since the Phase 3 Export Marketing Assistance Program was launched in May 2016,it has approved 67 northern Ontario companies for assistance with their export marketing and sales initiatives. Total conditional contributions to date are $654,875 leveraging estimated project spend by the companies of $2.1M.

The Fall/Winter intake of the Strategic Export Marketing Program has confirmed thirteen companies in the Northeast (including two from Greater Sudbury) and five from Thunder Bay. These companies will work with one of two export advisors over the next few months towards the development of an export strategy and export marketing/sales plan.

The GSDC, with support from the Northern Ontario Exports Program, hosted a second Export Club social and peer exchange event on June 15th . This event was designed for owners and executives from the local mining supply and services sector to connect and chat about developments in the global mining sector, share information on new and existing mining projects, discuss export opportunities, and where possible share contacts etc. This event also provided an opportunity for representatives from Export Development Canada to share information on some of the new services they are making available for local companies.

The Northern Ontario Exports program is partnered with Professions North to deliver a 'Going Global' export event in Sudbury hosted on Wednesday, October 26th . This event was designed to assist companies navigate the challenges and reap the benefits of developing their export potential.

The Northern Ontario Exports Program hosted a highly informative workshop on in- bound marketing and sales process as it relates to customer relationship management (CRM) on November 24th. With 25 attendees from the private sector, the workshop addressed a key opportunity for companies looking to enhance sales opportunities in global markets.

MINExpo 2016 As part of the Northern Ontario Exports program, CGS Economic Development staff coordinated the Northern Ontario Pavilion of 14 companies at the recent MINExpo trade show and convention. As the 'olympics' of mining trade shows held every four years, all the participating companies indicated that the quality and quantity of decision makers attending the show and visiting the pavilion far surpassed their expectations. Greater Sudbury companies that participated in the Northern Ontario Pavilion included Clickmox Solutions, Maestro Mine Ventilation, Symboticware Incorporated, The Hurley Group, Tracks and Wheels and Carriere Industrial.

Staff also met with representatives of the Council of Canada and Nevada, as well as the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and representatives from Elko, to explore how Greater Sudbury mining supply and service companies can better access the Nevada market.

In addition, staff assisted the Province of Ontario with organizing their R&D and investment attraction presentations to invited companies during MINExpo. These events were very successful in attracting companies like Caterpillar and Glencore.

Furthermore, during MINExpo proceedings, staff met with the president and CEO of Joy Global Edward Doheny about their Greater Sudbury operations.

Ontario's North Economic Development Corporation (ONEDC) hosted the Northern Ontario Reception during MINExpo at the Cosmopolitan Las Vegas Hotel .This exclusive networking event featured approximately 325 industry leaders representing mining executives, mining supply and service companies from northern Ontario, representatives from various levels of government, and other dignitaries. The event was supported by government partners, corporate sponsorship and ticket sales. The feedback received from both attendees and partners was overwhelmingly positive.

Mining Cluster Activities GSDC staff hosted two representatives from Continental Gold from Columbia May 30th - June 1st , who were looking to buy equipment for their mine. They were introduced to 16 local companies that can supply their needs.

On June 29th Hardrock-Vertex (formerly Hardrock Mining Products) celebrated the grand opening of its new $3 million 15,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in the Valley East Industrial Park. The company manufactures drill rods and bits for the mining industry, and is one of only a few in the world to produce twisted hex-steel rods. This expansion has allowed the company to grow from 10 employees to 14, with plans for another six over the next 12 months.

Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM)’s Maintenance, Engineering and Reliability/Mine Operators Conference (MEMO) 2016 Conference took place in Greater Sudbury October 16th-18th. This event brought international delegates and researchers to the city.

Approximately 30 people from French-speaking West African countries (Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, Senegal & Guinée), were in Greater Sudbury from October 15th -20th as part of an initiative called Franco-Mine. The initiative was held in conjunction with the CIM’s MEMO conference. The West African representatives were representing various business sectors, institutions, trade associations, and government, including Canadian Trade Commissioners stationed in those markets. Laurentian University and Economic Development staff set up industry-specific presentations, networking events, and local industry tours.

NOHFC Funding Announcements On August 26th, NOHFC announced investments of more than $3.5 million in six Greater Sudbury mining supply and service firms. These investments are expected to create 28 jobs and spur innovation.

1. Accutron Instruments Inc. received $148,200 to develop prototypes for communications and monitoring systems for use in mining and industrial operations.

2. BESTECH received $146,661 to develop a Blast Gas Clearance Module to optimize ventilation of blast gas from underground mining corridors and improve productivity.

3. Boart Longyear Canada received $1.37 million to develop technology for mineral exploration rigs with the potential to improve safety for miners, increase efficiency and reduce drilling costs.

4. Hardrock-Vertex (formerly Hardrock Mining Products) received $1 million to relocate, modernize and expand its Sudbury operation to increase productivity and meet market demands.

5. Rock-Tech received $800,000 to help construct a new facility to expand its mining equipment manufacturing operations.

6. TesMan Inc. received $75,000 to develop innovative technology that will improve mine safety by enabling the explosives loading process to be completed from a distance.

Economic Development staff worked extensively with Tesman, Rock-Tech, Boart Longyear and Hardrock-Vertex to secure these investments.

A NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED CENTRE FOR ARTISTIC EXCELLENCE, VIBRANCY AND CREATIVITY S Local Film Activity Several films and television series have been filmed in Greater Sudbury in recent months. These include: • After an exceptionally successful Season 1 of Letterkenny, producer Mark Monefiore returned to Greater Sudbury to film Season 2. • Amelie & Compagnie, a children’s television series on TFO, filmed in Greater Sudbury this summer for approximately four months. The producer for this production has returned after having brought several other series to the city, which demonstrates that Greater Sudbury is a film destination of choice. • Buckout Road, a period thriller feature film, was shot in Greater Sudbury from August 8th to September 1st. • Indian Horse is a feature film about a young Indigenous boy in the residential school system, and is based off the novel by the same name written by Richard Wagamese was recently filmed in Greater Sudbury. • Bad Blood (filmed as The Food Market ), a six-part television series where Sudbury will play Montreal in a gritty urban crime drama. It is produced by Mark Montefiore, who had brought half of dozen other productions to Greater Sudbury over the last three years.

Cultural Workshops and Professional Development Hot Docs selected Greater Sudbury as a host community for a workshop on volunteers. It was hosted at Tom Davies Square on June 8th.

Over 500 people attended the first ever Northern Ontario Film Training Symposium, held at the Northern Ontario Film Studios on September 24th and 25th. The Symposium was very well received, with a strong presence from film union representatives offering safety and sector training. The event is being planned as an annual effort, to be hosted again in 2017.

Culture Days, a national campaign to promote accessible cultural activities, took place from September 30th- October 2nd. Organizers across the city hosted a total of 15 events during Culture Days. CGS participated by launching two new publications: the 2016 Cultural Report and the Grant Impact Report on the 2015-2016 Arts & Culture Grant Program. Both documents are available on www.greatersudburyculture.ca.

Economic Development staff partnered with Music & Film in Motion, a division of Cultural Industries Ontario North (CION), to host a four-part panel discussion series, which was focused around film workers’ rights, involving the film unions, the Ministry of Labour and the Sudbury Workers Education and Advocacy Centre. The second film panel discussion took place on October 5th and focused on downtown filming and etiquette. It was hosted in collaboration with the Downtown Sudbury BIA and MFM and moderated by CBC Morning North host Markus Schwabe. Approximately 30 people were in attendance, including film students and location managers.

Over eighty stakeholders attended the third annual Cultural Forum on November 23rd. The full day event, hosted at the Downtown Movie Lounge, featured a panel discussion on creative place-making, updates on the Greater Sudbury Cultural Plan and six breakout sessions around key themes of interest.

USTRY ONE OF ONTARIO’S TOP TOURISM DESTINATIONS

Within the Economic Development team, staff are coordinated to manage the marketing and development of Greater Sudbury as a tourism destination. Within the Tourism & Culture section, the Sudbury Tourism Marketing Partnership exists to engage with industry stakeholder and leverage marketing dollars to reach the key visitor market segments. In the period from June to December 2016, Tourism & Culture staff engaged in the following:

Marketing and Promotions Initiatives Staff attended the Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC) Marketplace and Conference June 22nd -26th . At the Conference, staff met with and discussed potential story ideas and visits with 22 media representatives. At this Marketplace, Greater Sudbury was also asked to promote Northeastern Ontario Tourism and given direct support to attend and provide media with itinerary ideas and notable updates. Follow - ups with these travel media will continue to explore story ideas and book media trips that off first-hand experience in our destination.

This summer, Tourism & Culture hosted five media visits to promote family fun ideas, adult adventure/RVing, and motorcycle touring. The stories are posted to our blog at www.sudburydiscoveries.ca

As a part of a campaign to expand the awareness of activities in Greater Sudbury, Tourism & Culture staff developed a “10 Great Things to See & Do in Sudbury” rack card that was distributed to taxi companies, the airport shuttle and on brochure racks across the city. Since the summer version of the rack card was such a success, with over 5,000 printed, this lead to a fall/winter rack card being created.

The Tourism & Culture section hired three summer students to assist with the maintenance of the brochure racks; attendance and surveying at Greater Sudbury festivals and events, management of social media accounts, and to assist with additional projects as needed.

The Fall/Winter Visitor Guide was available as of the first week of September 2016. Over 25,000 guides distributed to year-round tourist outfits and visitor information centres throughout the province; on our local brochure racks; to event organizers for their participants/delegates. Visitors and stakeholders are able to request guides online at www.sudburytourism.ca or directly from the Economic Development office.

Group Tour Marketing Staff attended the Ontario Motor Coach Association’s Annual Conference/Marketplace October 30th-November 3rd in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Greater Sudbury Tourism & Culture and Tourism Sault Ste. Marie co-sponsored a “Group of Seven” themed breakfast for more than 80 group tour operators. It is anticipated that the efforts may lead to an increased number of bus tours visiting in 2017 (both in number and in length of stay), due to these meetings.

Meeting Convention and Sport Tourism On behalf of the City of Greater Sudbury, and as part of the 2016 annual conference and AGM of AMO (Association of Municipalities of Ontario), Tourism & Culture staff coordinated a contribution of snacks and refreshments featuring Greater Sudbury companies for the FONOM hospitality suite at the conference (Stack Brewery, Nana's Kettle Corn, and Superior Meats). The products were very well received, helping to generate awareness and conversation about the community. Over 1,900 municipal representatives participated in the conference from across the province.

Staff attended the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) conference in October. The City sponsored a portion of the conference as part of an ongoing effort to attract this national conference to Sudbury in 2019 or 2020.

Staff attended the Annual Conference of the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE) in Toronto in late October. The intent was make connections that could lead to future meetings and convention opportunities in Greater Sudbury.

Staff also joined the Professional Convention Management Association and attended their Canadian Innovation Conference in St. John’s, Newfoundland Nov. 20th -22nd. Over

275 delegates attended this premier, innovative, education focused conference and staff had some quality face time with meeting and event professionals in the marketplace of meetings, conventions, seminars, exhibits and tradeshow opportunities.

There have been close to 80 other meeting, convention and sport opportunities evaluated during this time with a number in progress including:

Sport Event Congress 2018 or 2020 NACAC Track & Field Championships in 2018 Four Canadian and International Volleyball Championships in 2017 Canadian Soccer Championships in 2018-19 Nitro Circus, 2017-2019 PGA Tour Canada Event 2017 World Curling Tour, 2018-19 Grand Slam of Curling 2019 ESSO Cup National Female Midget Hockey Championship 2019 EDAC and 2019 FCM Board Meeting 2019-2021 Athletics Canadian Championships: Track & Field, Marathon, Half Marathon, Cross Country, 10km and 5km.

To date staff have secured and/or coordinated future major events that will bring in over 2,000 delegates, close to 4,000 hotel room nights, which will have over $1,000,000 in projected economic impact. These numbers are based on 2013 Statistics Canada data from the “Travel Survey of Residents of Canada and International Travel Survey” prepared by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport.

Canada Summer Games 2021 In May, Greater Sudbury officially became a bid community for the 2021 Canada Summer Games, competing with Ottawa, the Niagara Region and the combined cities of Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge and Guelph. Tourism & Culture staff have worked together with Leisure Services to bring the various community groups, sport clubs, city departments and stakeholders together to complete the technical review for Phase 1 due June 30th, 2016 as well as the comprehensive Phase 2 due January 31st , 2017. The Bid Committee consists of a working group of 12 that is co-chaired by Darren Stinson and Amanda Schweinbenz. The process has been very helpful for strengthening community relationships and creating an up-to-date inventory for future hosting opportunities and development.

The next step of the process is hosting the Canada Games Council’s 12 member Bid Evaluation Committee for an official site visit on Feb. 27th . The majority of this visit will take place at the proposed Games Village at Laurentian University. It is crucial in this next step of the process for the community to not only demonstrate the willingness and capacity to host, but also an engagement and involvement that confirms this. The awarding of the Games will be announced in Toronto on Thursday, March 30th .

Industry and Destination Development Staff attended a Tourism Excellence North (TEN) International Travel Trade training session held in Killarney on October 25th. The session provided information to help understand the potential market of international travelers as well as the opportunity to network with both tourism business owners and other tourism development colleagues in the region. Tourism & Culture staff will be both promoting and brokering the TEN program offerings to improve product development opportunities in Greater Sudbury.

Staff attended the spring meeting of the Destination Marketing Association of Canada (DMAC) in Waterloo Region in May. They joined other Destination Marketing Organizations (DMO) representatives from over 20 different Canadian cities and regions from across the country to discuss challenges, trends and best practices for marketing destinations to the travelling public.

Greater Sudbury hosted the third annual Northern Ontario Tourism Summit November 15th -17th. Tourism Northern Ontario and Nature and Outdoor Tourism Ontario executed the event at the Holiday Inn with close to 300 people in attendance. The Tourism & Culture staff were active in the planning and were able to participate in sessions covering customer service, digital media marketing, product development, francophone and indigenous tourism, regional marketing plans and travel media attraction tips.

Tourism & Culture launched a new Sudbury Tourism Marketing Partnership structure in October 2016. The new "à la carte" structure will enable Tourism & Culture partners to select from a suite of additional marketing initiatives that may appeal to their individual business, as well as proposed new marketing projects throughout the year. It is expected that the new structure will provide greater value for partner investment through its ability to adapt to new technologies and its flexibility to explore new opportunities that may arise. At the end of 2016, over 55 partners have signed up or renewed with the partnership for 2017.

Product Development Spotlights Dynamic Earth had a big summer with the launch its Outdoor Science Park and the world premier of Ferdeno - the world’s first interactive and digital underground mine includes NORCAT’s avatar-based simulation, the Ontario Mine Rescue Experience. Both new attractions are being marketed to group tour and leisure markets for 2017.

New Eyes on the Universe exhibit premiered at Canada House in London, UK, on Canada Day, July 1st, 2016. At the exhibit in London, the City coordinated a chance to "Win a Trip to Sudbury & Ontario" contest for four which included stays in Toronto, Niagara Falls, Blue Mountain, Georgian Bay and Greater Sudbury. The contest received 150 entries and the winner will be visiting and documenting their trip in 2017, possibly in conjunction with the timing of New Eyes on the Universe stopping in Greater Sudbury on its cross Canada tour in July.

Tourism Event Support Program Between January 2016 and December 2016, the City of Greater Sudbury supported 75 events through the Tourism Event Support Program with a combined $129,327 in funding. These events attracted an estimated 64,936 out-of-town participants, delegates and spectators to Greater Sudbury, resulting in local spending of approximately $15,000,216 during this time period. Some of the event supported include Skate Ontario Championship, Le Salon du Livre, Northern Water Sports Centre Grand Opening, Sudbury Rocks!!!, and Graphic-Con.

Tourism Event Support Spotlight The 10th International Mines Rescue Competition, recipient of funds from the Tourism Event Support Program, was held in Greater Sudbury from August 18th -26th . As the event organizers, Workplace Safety North planned six high quality challenges and a number of social activities for their 430+ guests from all over the world, most of which were from the 28 teams representing 13 nations. The economic impact of the visitation is clear; 386 hotel rooms booked with additional local spending over a week. The estimated visitor spending alone, is conservatively estimated at $721,430 ($267/day as per MTCS Tourism Profiles x average of 7 days x 386 rooms). Staff assisted with event planning, trade show, and tourism information to delegates over the week. Special efforts were made by Tourism & Culture staff to plan a surprise boating experience for the delegates on the Friday after the competition. The overall competition winners were Canada's Kirkland Lake Gold team.

Other Activities and Achievements On Sunday, August 14th , the Toronto Maple Leafs delivered the original Air Canada Centre banner of George Armstrong to its new permanent home at the Garson Arena in Greater Sudbury. As part of the Toronto Maple Leafs Centennial Season celebrations during the 2016-17 NHL season, they worked with Tourism & Culture staff, together with Arenas and Communications, to host a ceremony at the base of the Big Nickel at Dynamic Earth.

The City of Greater Sudbury was the recipient of the 2016 Ontario Tourism Award of Excellence in the category of Tourism Marketing Partnerships for attracting and hosting CTV’s The Amazing Race Canada, Canada’s most watched television series during the summer of 2015. Economic Development staff received the award at the Ontario Tourism Summit’s Industry Awards of Excellence Gala held in Ottawa on November 22nd, 2016.

A LEADER IN HEALTH AND LIFE SCIENCES

Physician Recruitment One future family physician and one nurse practitioner were recently recruited to Greater Sudbury. This brings the total to 73 family physicians and three nurse practitioners recruited through the Primary Healthcare Provider Recruitment Program since 2008. Once all 73 begin to practice they will care for approximately 100,000 citizens of Greater Sudbury.

The City of Greater Sudbury sponsored the Sudbury & District Medical Society Golf Tournament which took place at Idylwylde Golf & Country Club on June 23rd. Staff attended and greeted local physicians as the physicians played through the 5th hole.

As part of NOSM Medical Resident Orientation Week, the City of Greater Sudbury hosted its annual “City Welcome Event” for the new NOSM medical residents on June 29th at the Sudbury Yacht Club. Deputy Mayor Al Sizer and Deputy Mayor Joscelyne Landry-Altmann were in attendance and officially welcomed everyone to Greater Sudbury. The event was sponsored by eight community partners and the Sudbury Yacht Club who provided the venue, with members taking everyone out for an evening sail on Ramsey Lake.

On Sunday September 11th , the City of Greater Sudbury hosted its 13th Annual Physician and Family Appreciation Day Brunch. The event serves as an opportunity to recognize and thank local physicians for the valuable services they provide to the citizens of Greater Sudbury. Mayor Brian Bigger, Dr. Denis Roy (Health Sciences North), Dr. David Marsh (Northern Ontario School of Medicine) and Dr. Stephen Kosar (Sudbury & District Medical Society) all addressed the audience and thanked the physicians. This year had the best attendance since the City of Greater Sudbury began hosting the event.

Funding Announcements On May 10th, it was announced that the North East Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) Board of Directors has agreed to support HSN’s NEO Kids initiative. Once completed, NEO Kids will serve at the northeastern Ontario hub for specialized children’s care, allowing more children to receive specialized medical care without having to leave the region. The LHIN will now write a letter of support to the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care requesting the Ministry’s financial support.

In addition to NEO Kids, the LHIN has also agreed to support a $7.9M proposal to build a state-of-the-art hybrid operating room at the hospital. The new facility will include highly sophisticated diagnostic imaging equipment valued at $2M, and will allow surgeons to conduct highly specialized cardiac and vascular procedures. The technology and surgical techniques be employed in the new OR will shorten the length of stay and reduce the suffering of cardiac and vascular patients.

Health Minister Eric Hoskins and Sudbury MPP and Energy Minister Glenn Thibeault announced that the Province of Ontario would contribute $4.6M of capital funding to construct a PET-CT suite at Health Sciences North. The government of Ontario had previously said it would contribute $1.6M a year to operate the scanner if the hospital raised the necessary capital for a permanent PET scanner. Coinciding with the capital funding announcement for the construction of the PET-CT suite was an announcement that two anonymous donors contributed $500,000, which provided the outstanding amount required for the purchase of the equipment. The PET-CT suite will be built as an addition to the nuclear medicine department on the second floor of the south tower of the Ramsey Lake Health Centre site of HSN. The initial estimate for the length of construction is a year.

Ronald McDonald House is set to expand to Greater Sudbury with a new family room that will provide respite for the families and caregivers of children in Health Sciences North’s pediatric and neonatal intensive care units. The room will be approximately 800 square feet and will have a TV lounge area and a kitchenette stocked with snacks and beverages. There will also be two rest areas where family members can comfortably sleep. The room will be open 12 hours a day, seven days a week, and will be staffed by 70 volunteers recruited by Ronald MDonald House.

Researchers with the Health Sciences North Research Institute received funds from the NEOKids Foundation to investigate the potential cancer-causing effect of radon gas on lung and blood cells. Dr. Leslie Sutherland and her research assistant Jose Knee will conduct some of the first research to observe the direct effects of radon emanating from different rock samples on certain types of cells.

Health and Life Sciences Appointments On August 9th, the Sudbury and District Health Unit announced the appointment of a new Associate Medical Officer of Health. Dr. Ariella Zbar has been appointed to the position, which has been vacant since 2013. Previously, Dr. Zbar was a senior resident with the Queen’s University Public Health and Preventative Medicine Program.

Dr. Carrie Bourassa was appointed as the new Chair in Northern and Indigenous Health at the Health Sciences North Research Institute. Dr. Bourassa is an Indigenous community based researcher from Regina, Saskatchewan specializing in working with Indigenous communities to examine culturally safe health care practices. Her development of a Cultural Safety Evaluation, Training and Research Lab with a mentorship model will bring new and unique training opportunities for researchers and community members.

Dr. Denis Roy announced his retirement as President and CEO of Health Sciences North effective June 2017. With Dr. Roy’s retirement, a recruitment process for a new CEO has been initiated. The position carries a dual CEO role for HSN and HSNRI .

Health and Life Sciences Activities On May 17th, it was announced that the Advanced Medical Research Institute of Canada (AMRIC), has been renamed Health Sciences North Research Institute (HSNRI).

Dr. James Watterson, a Laurentian University forensic toxicologist, is currently researching baseline measurements in order to recognize how different types of drugs behave in dry blood samples. The ultimate goal is for tests to become more efficient and become more effective at detecting drug usage at the time the sample was taken.

Economic Development staff facilitated the introduction of the new Ontario Centers of Excellence (OCE) Business Development Manager for northern Ontario to local health companies and organizations. As a result, a local health firm is developing applications to two of OCE’s funding programs, one of them for a new venture and the other for VIP (Voucher for Innovation and Productivity), a program that connects companies with the expertise and resources at Ontario colleges and universities to help access research and expertise.

Health and Life Sciences Investment Attraction Activities Staff met with a health-related company looking to expand in northern Ontario. They currently have 10 locations in southern Ontario and are evaluating new site location opportunities in northern Ontario. Staff have provided data and information on funding programs to inform the company’s due diligence process.

Staff attended the HealthForce Ontario Marketing and Recruitment Agency Community Connections Job Fair which took place on Friday May 6th in Greater Sudbury. This provided an opportunity for recruiters from across northern Ontario to speak with NOSM Family Medicine Residents who are about to complete their training and may be looking for practice opportunities.

During the first week of November, Economic Development staff attended the Health Career Fair at Laurentian University to conduct outreach with businesses seeking skilled labour in Greater Sudbury. Staff developed three leads that will result in enhanced business and retention outreach activities.

On November 7th-9th , Economic Development staff attended Health Achieve, an award- winning conference that gathers health care and business leaders. The show is for health care and business leaders seeking to participate in educational sessions on current issues in health care and innovations in various areas of the health care system. The trade floor is for businesses offering innovative technology and services to the health care sector. Staff also met with companies interested in expanding into Greater Sudbury.

A ROBUST ENTREPRENEURSHIP ECOSYSTEM

Regional Business Centre Activities (May 2016-December 2016) • The Regional Business Centre responded to over 1571 inquiries from entrepreneurs via walk-ins (398), telephone calls (526), emails (573), and social media (74) etc. • Registered 167 businesses resulting in 42 confirmed start-ups, which have created more than 87 new jobs • Conducted nearly 173 consultations with clients to provide guidance and support in starting and expanding their businesses • Conducted 35 seminars, hosted 2 events, and completed 118 outreach activities, to reach more than 1660 people in our community interested in entrepreneurship

Training and Development On September 14th , the NORCAT Innovation Mill, in collaboration with the Regional Business Centre, launched Startup 101 (formally Entrepreneurship 101) – a free educational certificate program delivered by “been there, done that” entrepreneurs, designed to provide participants with relevant and practical information they need to start and grow their businesses. The 25 week program features in-person weekly presentations at NORCAT. Functional topics range from sales and marketing to intellectual property and raising equity capital, among many other relevant themes for start-up ventures. Since its launch, the program has attracted 40-50 participants weekly and has resulted in an increased interest in the Regional Business Centre’s one-on-one consultation, market research services and Starter Company program.

Youth Engagement Regional Business Centre staff are working to develop a youth engagement strategy. Youth are an important segment of the population that is often a driver of economic and employment growth. The development of a youth engagement strategy aims to promote entrepreneurship within the educational system. All three tiers (elementary, secondary and post-secondary), will have programming to compliment the differing levels of development. Through promotion, communication, actively supporting youth hubs such as the Young Professionals Association and leveraging the success of our clients to advocate as ambassadors are methods of implementing this strategy.

The Youth Strategy Coordinator attended the final pitch event for the Sudbury Youth Entrepreneurship Hub's Be Your Own Boss, Idea Pitch Competition on June 3rd at NORCAT. This event saw three young entrepreneurs pitching their business ideas after making it through the initial stages of the competition and working with mentors to improve their final pitches. Each finalist was told about the ways in which the Regional Business Centre assists entrepreneurs through each stage of their development.

The Youth Strategy Coordinator attended a FEED session held by the Sudbury Youth Entrepreneurship Hub where 60 post-secondary students were able to visit a trade show, listen to Karim Omri; President of Kormi Systems Incorporated, an engineering consulting and product development firm.

Summer Company Program The Summer Company Program is designed for returning students aged 15 to 29, who are interested in starting a business for the summer months. Eligible youths have an opportunity to receive a grant of up to $3,000 to assist them with establishing and operating their own business.

Several of the Summer Company participants created unconventional businesses including a drive-in theatre, paralegal services, motivational speaker and author amongst many others. Even though the program has concluded, the Regional Business Centre is dedicated to assisting these youthful clients while they continue their educational studies. Connor Larocque of Life is Motivation, Kelsey Fenerty of Wild Roots Wellness, Jordan Nieuwhof of Iron Paralegal Solutions and Daniel Roux of Rooster’s Yard Care will be continuing operations from the momentum stimulated by the program. This year, the Regional Business Centre developed a student yearbook to commemorate the experiences of the participants. Along with preparing the yearbook, we used internal resources to develop multipurpose promotional videos and testimonials of each student for future promotion of the program and for students to utilize in the promotion of their businesses as well.

Staples Youth Entrepreneurship Day took place on June 29th at both Staples locations in Sudbury. This annual event provides Summer Company program participants with an opportunity to gain trade show experience and network with local residents while selling and promoting their products and services. Program participants will be able to test the market for their products and services by displaying and demonstrating their unique companies.

Starter Company Program The Starter Company Program is a program for youth age 18 to 29, who are not students, who are planning to start or expand a full-time business. The program provides participants with business training, mentorship, and a grant of up to $5,000 provided that they have a 25% contribution.

There are currently six participants in the Fall 2016 intake of the Starter Company program. They are participating in training and mentoring sessions, and the first drafts of their business plans have been submitted. Staff are pleased to report that two local startups were approved for $5,000 of funding through the Starter Company Program on September 20th, 2016.

Entrepreneurship Events The Regional Business Centre sponsored the Small Enterprises award again this year at the Bell Business Excellence Awards. The award was presented to Dan Guillemette of CentreLine Designs Inc. Of the ten awards presented at the event four were clients of the Regional Business Centre. These include: • Business Start-Up: ARC Climbing Yoga Fitness • Hospitality & Service Excellence: Tara Renelli of Salute Coffee Company • Small Enterprise: Dan Guilemette of Centreline Designs Inc; and • Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Keegan Bradley from Dr Clean Inc

The sixth annual “Innovation for Greater Sudbury” event, was held on November 17th with over 140 people in attendance. This evening was dedicated to collaboration, education and networking amongst innovative industry partners, students, funders and researchers. This event showcased and highlighted a few of Sudbury’s budding ICT and digital media innovators, and the future of digital media in Greater Sudbury. Speakers included Calvin Henderson (Gripp), Michael Dolinar (Advanceworx), Rob Roy (Studio 123), and Emily Franceschini (TimeHero/ OurCrater).

Regional Business Centre staff are currently developing a “Franchise Fair” event to be held in Spring 2017. This will present an opportunity for prospective business owners to assess a range of available franchising options in the Greater Sudbury area. It is important for prospective franchisees to research a variety of franchise options and logistical factors before making an investment, and this event can prepare entrepreneurs not only with information specific to individual franchises, but also the necessary processes and considerations that they must be aware of before embarking on franchise ownership.

Bridges to Better Business Conference The Regional Business Centre is celebrating the success of the 17th annual Bridges to Better Business Conference which was hosted in celebration of BDC Small Business Week. This event was held on October 17th and 18th at the Holiday Inn in Sudbury. Approximately 250 local business owners and business professionals from a variety of industries gathered to engage in discussions, workshops and seminars about what it takes to successfully overcome entrepreneurial challenges.

The Bridges to Better Business Conference showcased an extensive range of concurrent sessions as well as a local entrepreneur panel featuring Dr. Julie DeSimone (Desimone Foot and Ankle Centre), David Peres (Minalytix), Kylie Klym (Kadence Music Therapy) and Kyle Hoddy (Jean Country and Cortina Restaurant). In addition, three keynote speakers were showcased at this year’s conference: CBC Radio host Terry O’Reilly, bestselling author Janet Podleski and accomplished business consultant Kathy Stinson.

ONE OF THE MOST INTEGRATED EDUCATION AND INNOVATION ECOSYSTEMS IN ONTARIO

Laurentian University Funding Since May 2016 Laurentian University has been the recipient of numerous and significant funding from both the private and public sector. This additional funding will further make Laurentian University and, as a result Greater Sudbury, a first-choice academic destination. These funding announcements include: • On June 29th, Laurentian Architecture was renamed the McEwen School of Architecture in recognition of a significant $10 million investment by Rob and Cheryl McEwen. • On September 6th, Laurentian University announced a $10 million donation from David Harquail, CEO of Franco-Nevada Corporation, through the Harquail family’s Midas Touch Foundation to support the Department of Earth Sciences and its Mineral Exploration Research Centre (MERC). In honour of the donation, the university is renaming the Department of Earth Sciences to the Harquail School of Earth Sciences. An $8.4 million endowment will be created to support new research chairs, lab equipment and supplies, technical support and scholarships for international PhD students. The balance of the $1.6 million will allow for the intermediate recruitment of a Research Chair in Exploration. • Also on September 6th, Laurentian announced an additional $104 million in funding to fund the ambitious Metal Earth research project. The seven- year initiative will see a team of more than 100 professionals and students compare data about the planet’s crust, a first-of-its-kind experiment in Canada to use geosciences to produce 4D images of the Earth. This funding includes $49.2 million from the federal government’s Canada First Research Excellence Fund and an additional $55 million from 22 partners from academia, industry and government. • On September 23rd, Laurentian University announced that it would be receiving $27.4 million from the federal and provincial governments to support the construction of its new $60 million “Research, Innovation and Engineering” building. The 47,000 sq. ft. facility will feature support for emerging startups in partnership with NORCAT, lab facilities for students, a mineral analysis lab, and a machine stop for prototype development. Federal MPs Marc Serré and Paul Lefebvre were on hand to announce a federal contribution of $21.1 million from its Strategic Infrastructure Fund (SIF), while Sudbury MPP Glenn Thibeault was accompanied by Deputy

Premier Deb Matthews to announce a provincial contribution of $6.3 million. • Laurentian received $1 million from the Perdue family toward its new research and development centre. The Norinne E. Perdue Collaborative Research and Development Centre will be part of Laurentian’s new Cliff Fielding Research, Innovation and Engineering building, and will enable researchers from across the university’s seven faculties to collaborate, share equipment and expertise.

Collège Boréal Funding On September 7th, Nickel Belt MP Marc Serré and Sudbury MP Paul Lefebvre announced that Collège Boréal will receive $5 million from the federal government’s Strategic Infrastructure Fund (SIF). $4 million of which will be invested in the construction of new wellness centre in Greater Sudbury that will allow the college to conduct research in the area of physical activity in seniors.

Other Education and Innovation Activities On August 31st, the presidents of Algoma University and Cambrian College signed a general agreement that provides qualified Cambrian students and graduates of certificate, diploma and advanced diploma programs with a simplified path to obtaining a bachelor degree from Algoma in such fields as the arts, science, business administration, computer science, fine arts, music, and social work.

On September 20th, staff participated in a “Speed Mentoring” session hosted by Access Employment and Collège Boréal. “Speed Mentoring en Français” offered bilingual new Canadians an opportunity to meet and network with professionals to discuss sector specific information and get advice on industry trends, job search strategies, and employable skills. Staff met with seven newcomers to Greater Sudbury during the session.

On September 30th, Laurentian University hosted its first ever “Last Lecture” by Peter Kaiser, the first in its new “Last Lecture” series, anticipated to be an annual event. The lecture marks the culmination of Kaiser’s career which has included stints as the president and CEO of MIRARCO Mining Innovation, Laurentian’s non-profit applied research firm; founding director, president and CEO of the Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation (CEMI); and, the director of the Rio Tinto Centre for Underground Mine Construction.

On November 3rd , BacTech Environmental Corporation (BacTech) announced that it has engaged the services of Laurentian University’s Vale Living with Lakes Centre to provide bioleach test work for concentrates collected in Ecuador. BacTech is investigating the use of bioleaching to process high arsenic/high gold concentrates produced at flotation plants in the Ponce Enrique area of southern Ecuador. The work will take place under the guidance of Dr. Nadia Mykytczuk, Research Chair in Biomining, Bioleaching and Science Communication. The aim of the project is to demonstrate that bioleaching can extract remaining gold from the material while at the same time stabilize the high levels of arsenic, and ultimately lead to the construction of a production scale bioleach plant in Ponce Enrique.

Laurentian University has appointed its first Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Health. Dr. Jennifer Walker’s research will involve the collection and analysis of information on the health of First Nations and Métis communities in a culturally appropriate way. This work will help these communities to advocate for health system improvements. Part of Dr. Walker’s research will focus on rising rates of dementia in Indigenous communities.

Business Development and Tourism staff met with Liaison staff at Laurentian University regarding upcoming recruitment efforts targeting students from external markets, particularly the larger communities in northern Ontario as well as the GTA. Through joint marketing efforts, Laurentian and Economic Development will target specific audiences, including college students and high school guidance counselors, to increase visitation to Greater Sudbury.

Academic Rankings and Press In September, Macleans magazine published an article recognizing Cambrian College’s impressive performances in a variety of categories at the Skills Canada competition. In the last six years, Cambrian students have repeatedly placed ahead of students from much bigger schools such as Humber and Seneca. The article comes on the heels of yet another impressive showing by Cambrian at May’s Ontario Technological Skills Competition, where its students took home three gold medals in the categories of Heavy Duty Equipment Service; Heating Systems Technician; and, IT Network Systems Admin.

As it has for the last five years, Cambrian College cracked Research Infosource’s list of Canada’s top 50 research colleges – the only college in northern Ontario to do so. Cambrian ranked 44th on the list for 2015. One of the projects in which Cambrian has worked closely with local industry is a collaboration it did with Rock-Tech to improve the performance of the company’s rock-breaking equipment.

Laurentian University has made the top 10 list in Maclean’s magazine’s annual rankings of Canadian universities for the second time in three years. The special issue, which hit shelves earlier this month, ranks universities on the broad categories of students, faculty, resources, student support and reputation, and several sub-categories in each of these areas. This is a vast improvement over 2009, when it ranked 18th in its category.

INVESTMENT ATTRACTION

Economic Development staff hosted a delegation of six Australian mining supply companies in October. Staff introduced them to local Greater Sudbury companies that might be interested in partnering with them. This included Economic Development staff assisting one of the engineering companies in sending an engineer to staff the office they plan to establish in Greater Sudbury.

On November 18th, it was announced that the Greater Sudbury office of the Canada Revenue Agency will add 650 processing jobs, while 107 employees will receive relocation notices as part of the agency’s service renewal initiative. Individuals receiving relocation letters may relocate to other processing centres in Canada or accept new positions at their current location. Positions are being added and some employees are being moved to address the fact that more and more Canadians are filing their tax returns online rather than on paper. The Sudbury Taxation Centre now has 1,700 full-time equivalent employees, 1,150 of whom are dedicated to processing activities.

Staff met with Iamgold in December to discuss how GSDC staff could help advance the provincial environmental assessment. Since that meeting, the environmental assessment has been approved and staff will be meeting with Iamgold on February 18th in Timmins to discuss next steps.

Economic Development staff introduced an American advanced materials construction company to local Greater Sudbury suppliers. This should lead to our companies being more competitive in the international markets.

Staff worked with the German Consulate in Toronto to arrange meetings with Greater Sudbury suppliers that might be interested in representing German companies.

Millennium 1 Solutions announced that it will be opening a 250 seat call centre in Greater Sudbury. Attracted by our bilingual workforce, they toured a number of sites and met with staff in Economic Development and the Province, a representative from a telecommunicatiosn provide, as well as Mayor Bigger. The GSDC’s Business Development Officers played a key role in attracting this investment to Greater Sudbury. Staff provided assessments and research on labour force and site availability to the interested company. The company expects to eventually reach a 350 seat capacity.

GOVERNANCE- ORGANIZATIONAL EXCELLENCE- COMMUNICATIONS

The Ministry of Northern Development and Mines announced the opening of an 11 km stretch of new four-laning on Highway 69 between Hwy 64 to north of Hwy 607 near the Municipality of French River by early August. This means that only 57 km of the highway remains to be four-laned, of which 25 km is currently under construction. Back in January, the Province announced that work would begin on four-laning a 14 km section from just north of Hwy 607 (French River) to just north of Hwy 522 (Grundy Lake). The $173.4 million investment will include building two new interchanges and 10 new bridges, including four major structures over the Pickerel and French rivers. The province reports that they are “on track” to meet their commitment to complete the four-laning of Highway 69 North by 2021. When it is complete, it is estimated that the project will have cost almost $2 billion.

The Market Under sunny skies, the Market had a successful opening day for the 2016 season on Saturday, June 4th , with over 500 people attending and 20 vendors, both returning and new, offering their wares. The Market collaborated with reThink Green to offer Earth Day Festival exhibits and activities on site as well as at Memorial Park. Eat Local Sudbury staff coordinated the operations while members of the Downtown Market Working Group greeted vendors and visitors out to enjoy the day. Over the course of the season the Market saw an impressive increase in attendance and vendors: • A total of 13,176 visitors came to the Market over the 2016 season. This is an increase of 3,297 guests from 2015 season which saw 9,879 visitors. This also shows an increase over the 2014 season, which resulted in 11,722 visitors.

• The 2016 efforts resulted in a total of 49 vendors for the season, an increase over the 34 vendors who participated in 2015. Out of the 49 vendors who participated, 18 of these were returning vendors, most of whom were seasonal participants