November 1, 2001

The Honourable Andy Mitchell, Secretary of State (Rural Development) (FedNor), is pleased to announce the launch of a comprehensive marketing effort to improve the corporate image and strengthen the profile of Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDC's) in Ontario.

"CFDCs are a key component of this government's efforts to foster economic development and diversity at the local level," says Mr. Mitchell.  "We are committed to a strong, united and visible Community Futures Program Network.

In partnership with the Association of Community Futures Development Corporations (OACFDC), Industry Canada/FedNor is launching a comprehensive marketing effort to improve the corporate image of CFDCs.  Mr. Mitchell announced this high-profile Common Identifier marketing strategy the final day of the OACFDC's annual conference held in June.

"CFDCs are an excellent example of a successful economic development model.  Last year Ontario CFDCs directly helped more than 1,800 small to medium-sized enterprises and created and maintained more than 5,400 jobs and yet they remain relatively unknown outside their immediate community," says Mr. Mitchell.  "Through this strategy, we can help CFDCs further establish their reputation as valuable and effective community-based organizations."

All Ontario CFDCs have their own distinct corporate name and logo.  A common identifier will result in a consistent overall corporate image and contribute to enhanced CFDC communications efforts.  It will also help re-inforce the link between the 52 CFDCs in Ontario and the more than 252 CF groups across Canada.

Ontario CFDCs are funded by Industry Canada/FedNor.  They deliver a wide variety of programs and services to stimulate community economic development and small business growth.  CFDCs are designed to develop and implement long-term, community-based economic development programs.