Norfolk County has achieved a significant milestone in economic development, earning prestigious recognition from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) for its innovative approach to supporting local business growth. The county’s norfolkbusiness.ca website has been awarded the Bronze Award in the General Purpose Website category for communities with populations between 25,000 and 200,000 residents.
This international recognition highlights Norfolk County’s commitment to creating digital tools that serve both existing businesses and potential investors looking to establish operations in the region. The award will be presented at the IEDC 2025 Annual Conference in Detroit, Michigan, taking place September 14-17.
A Platform Built for Business Success
The norfolkbusiness.ca website represents more than just an online presence—it’s a comprehensive resource designed to connect entrepreneurs with the tools, information, and support they need to thrive. The platform showcases Norfolk County’s unique advantages as a business destination, from its strategic location and skilled workforce to available properties and investment incentives.
What sets this website apart is its user-focused design and practical functionality. Rather than simply listing business services, the platform creates meaningful connections between entrepreneurs, existing businesses, and county resources. This approach has evidently resonated with the IEDC judges, who recognized the site’s effectiveness in advancing economic development goals.
Recognition on the International Stage
The IEDC Excellence Awards annually honour economic development organizations, government entities, initiatives, and programs that demonstrate exceptional work in transforming communities. These awards recognize projects that not only achieve immediate results but also advance the broader practice of economic development.
“This recognition from IEDC is a testament to the innovative work of our Economic Development team and the strong partnerships we have with our business community,” said Mayor Amy Martin. The Mayor emphasized how the website has become “a vital tool in showcasing Norfolk’s strengths, connecting entrepreneurs with resources, and attracting new investment.”
Strategic Investment in Digital Infrastructure
John Regan, Director of Norfolk County Economic Development, noted that the award reflects “Norfolk County’s dedication to supporting our business community, attracting new opportunities, and showcasing Norfolk as a dynamic place to live, work, and invest.” This recognition validates the county’s strategic decision to invest in digital infrastructure that serves economic development goals.
The website’s success demonstrates how smaller communities can compete effectively for business attraction and retention by leveraging technology to showcase their unique advantages. In an increasingly digital economy, having a robust online presence is essential for communities seeking to attract investment and support business growth.
Building on Success
Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO, praised Norfolk County for “leading the field of excellence in economic development” with its website initiative. This external validation from a respected international organization positions Norfolk County as a leader among communities of similar size.
The award comes at a time when economic development professionals are increasingly recognizing the importance of digital tools in supporting business growth and community development. Norfolk County’s success with norfolkbusiness.ca provides a model for other communities looking to enhance their economic development efforts through innovative online platforms.
This international recognition reinforces Norfolk County’s position as a forward-thinking community committed to supporting business success and economic prosperity. As the county continues to build on this success, the award-winning website will undoubtedly play a crucial role in attracting new investment and supporting the growth of existing businesses throughout the region.