City of Cambridge Economic Development Action Plan (2025–2029)
The City of Cambridge’s Economic Development Action Plan 2025–2029 is a comprehensive, data-informed publication that sets a strategic and measurable roadmap to drive sustainable economic growth, attract investment, and build sector resilience over a five-year period. Developed in partnership with Stiletto Consulting through a competitive RFQ process, this publication serves not only as an internal planning guide but also as a public-facing tool to engage stakeholders, inspire collaboration, and reinforce Cambridge’s role within the broader Waterloo Region economy.
Purpose of Project
The purpose of the publication was to deliver a clear and actionable plan that aligns with the City’s overarching strategic goals. It focuses on four strategic pillars: (1) Advance Sector Growth, (2) Inspire Quality of Place, (3) Support a Healthy Business Environment, and (4) Storytelling for Brand Recognition. The plan builds upon Cambridge’s unique sector strengths, advanced manufacturing, creative industries, and tourism, while supporting businesses through growth, workforce development, and placemaking. The anticipated outcomes are clearly defined, with a set of priorities and tactics that could be implemented across departments and with regional partners to ensure economic resiliency.
Effectiveness and Meeting Objectives
The publication successfully meets its objectives by combining in-depth stakeholder consultation, primary and secondary data analysis, and a forward-looking approach to economic development. It includes an internal implementation timeline, suggested tactics, priority rankings, partner roles, and performance measures. Since its adoption, the Action Plan has informed budget planning, cross-departmental collaboration, and program delivery in real-time, demonstrating its immediate value.
Challenges and Changes Made
Key challenges included balancing short-term economic recovery needs, particularly post-COVID-19 and now in response to rising U.S. trade issues with longer-term strategic planning. Feedback from the local business community also indicated the need for accessible, sector-specific actions. As a result, the final publication incorporates recommendations grounded in local capacity and flexible implementation tactics that can evolve with shifting market conditions and community needs.
Target Audience
The target audience includes local and regional business stakeholders, council and city staff, investors, post-secondary partners, workforce organizations, and community associations. Designed to be accessible and engaging, the report was formatted to be visually appealing and easy to navigate for a wide demographic, ranging from elected officials to small business owners and internal staff.
Category Relevance and Sustainability
As a single publication exceeding 5 pages, this final report stands out due to its thoroughness, clarity, and adaptability. It goes beyond strategy to provide an operational framework for city staff, encouraging ongoing use and evaluation. The embedded sustainability of the project is evident in its emphasis on building local talent pipelines, supporting environmentally responsible development, and promoting regional collaboration. Rather than a static document, it is a living framework intended to evolve with Cambridge’s economic landscape and guide sustainable progress through 2029.
