Setting the Stage: The Genesis and Vision of the OECD Atlantic Canada Project 

Date: Wednesday, September 16
Time: 8:30am
Room: Main Ballroom

Speaker:
Francesco Calazzo – General Manager, Southeast Regional Service Commission

Description: Before diving into the findings of the OECD's landmark regional study, this introductory session sets the table for why this initiative was launched and how it came to life. Executive leader Francesco Calazzo shares the origin story behind the project, detailing the critical economic drivers, structural shifts, and strategic questions that prompted this comprehensive assessment of Atlantic Canada.  

Francesco will outline the rationale for partnering with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)—bringing a world-class, independent, global lens to our regional economy. Attendees will gain valuable context on the goals of the initiative, the collaborative framework built across regional stakeholders, and how local economic developers can leverage these high-level international benchmarks to shape future policy, investment attraction, and community growth.