The Kawartha Lakes Economic Development Strategy 2025-2029 is now available for review. The Strategy can also be found in the documents section on the right side of the project page.

The City of Kawartha Lakes has announced its new Economic Development Strategy for 2025-2029, aimed at fostering a robust, diversified economy while supporting local culture, tourism, and community growth. Presented at the Committee of the Whole meeting, the strategy seeks to position Kawartha Lakes as an attractive location for businesses and residents, while taking into account the population and employment forecasts over the next 25 years.

The plan, developed in collaboration with community stakeholders, focuses on five strategic priorities:

1. Stimulating Investment – Making Kawartha Lakes "investment ready" by fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts and supports businesses and cultural organizations.
2. Supporting Business Growth – Enhancing resources for emerging and established businesses across sectors such as agriculture and food, tourism, creative and cultural industries, innovation, and manufacturing.
3. Building a Skilled Workforce – Addressing workforce gaps and fostering partnerships with educational institutions to build local talent.
4. Enhancing Economic and Cultural Spaces – Investing in places that improve residents' and visitors quality of life, encourage downtown revitalization, and conserve agricultural and heritage assets.
5. Strengthening Economic Development Resources – Ensuring the Economic Development Division has the tools and collaboration needed to effectively implement the strategy.

Download the presentation made to Committee of the Whole

Read the report, which was reviewed at the November 19, 2024 Regular Council Meeting.

Thank you to everyone who supported and participated in the process of updating the Economic Development Strategy. Your valuable input and collaboration have helped shape a stronger future for Kawartha Lakes.