A delegation of communities from the Southwest Economic Alliance (SWEA) is visiting businesses in The Netherlands promoting investments in food production, renewable energy and logistics.
The 10 person investment mission, with participation from Chatham-Kent, the city of London, Middlesex County, city of Stratford and Windsor-Essex, began its tour Monday, May 23 and will continue until Friday, May 27. This is the first mission organized by SWEA on behalf of its members. London Economic Development Corporation (LEDC), working with the Canadian embassy in The Hague, provided assistance in the coordination of meetings and travel.
“The Netherlands is the third largest source of direct foreign investment in Canada, so it makes sense for us to pursue this market,” says SWEA president Serge Lavoie. “In addition, there are similarities in our economies, with mutual interests in value-added agriculture and energy from sun, wind and biomass.”
Peter White, president & CEO of LEDC concurs, pointing out that Southwestern Ontario is diversifying its economy in sectors that Dutch companies excel at. “Our cities, such as London and Windsor, are starting to develop real strengths in renewable energy. We have a lot to offer Dutch companies looking to enter the North American market.”
In addition to economic development staff from participating communities, the mission includes Joanne Vanderheyden, mayor of Strathroy and Warden of Middlesex County, as well as Ineke Haan, manager of human resources at the Strathroy facility of food processor Bonduelle North America.
When it wraps up, the SWEA mission will have met with over 25 companies in all regions of the country. To highlight the presence of the delegation, Canadian ambassador James Lambert was set to host a reception with Dutch companies in his official residence on May 24.
The Southwest Economic Alliance is a partnership of municipalities and businesses in Southwestern Ontario with a mandate to help transform the economy of the region through cooperation and leadership. In addition to investment missions, SWEA undertakes research and advocacy and hosts an annual conference. This year’s conference is scheduled for June 9-10 in Guelph.
For further information, contact Serge Lavoie at 519-859-7763 or at slavoie@swea.ca.
