Implementing a BR&E Program

BR&E is a community-based, volunteer-driven economic development tool. The involvement of local business leaders is the cornerstone of an effective BR&E initiative. This local leadership team provides guidance and oversight for the implementation of the project. The leadership team is comprised of business people, municipal officials and representatives from community and economic development organizations, utilities, education and labour. They review the survey results and work towards the development of a strategic economic development action plan. Local business service providers, representing the federal and provincial governments, and business development organizations act as a resource to the local implementation team.

First and foremost, the BR&E program is a community effort and will not yield results unless community leaders support the action and support the effort. Furthermore, a strong leadership team must be in place to properly channel the energies invested in the BR&E program. The BR&E program is the only local action model for building action-oriented partnerships between Chambers of Commerce, City and Town Economic Development Officers, Provincial and Federal Government economic development officials, as well as private sector companies and entrepreneurs. Businesses have a better chance of success when they recognize the opportunities of private-public sector partnerships and linkages. Small businesses only survive when they serve the community in which they reside.

Private sector companies will want to be part of the BR&E program for many reasons. Listed below are the opportunities and benefits from implementing a BR&E program:

• Diagnostic tool for you to identify customer business needs and development opportunities.
• An opportunity to respond to your business needs.
• A proactive linkage with your clients.
• Facilitates local business growth and job creation.
• Develops a creative partnership with government.
• Heightens your profile within the community.
• You become an integral stakeholder in strategic action plan development and implementation.

Community stakeholders want to be part of the BR&E program for many reasons including the following:

• Enhances the economic development capacity of community volunteers.
• Establishes a resource network to meet the needs of local businesses.
• Makes the community an active partner with local businesses in economic development.
• Addresses business needs and opportunities through locally developed action plans.
• Encourages greater local involvement in economic development.

Of course, a successful BR&E initiative will also require the participation of the wider community. Members of the public will want to become involved in BR&E implementation for the following reasons:

• Produces a tangible CED tool, which supports economic growth.
• Strengthens local capacity for economic development.
• Creates greater economic development self-reliance.
• Builds strategic private and public sector alliances.
• Improves the business climate, leading to job creation opportunities.