Yvonne Pilon

Sandra Pupatello New CEO the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation

SandraWINDSOR, May 9, 2013: The WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation is pleased to announce that former Ontario Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Sandra Pupatello, will be joining WEEDC as Chief Executive Officer.

Ms. Pupatello requires no introduction to the Windsor-Essex community. As one of our region’s most vocal and tireless champions for continuing prosperity and opportunity, Ms. Pupatello’s drive, passion, enthusiasm, and knowledge of this region will ensure that Windsor-Essex can be known as a solid and profitable business investment worldwide.

Ms. Pupatello, a well-known and respected political figure during her 16 years at Queen’s Park, brings with her a wealth of public sector experience, as well as extensive business contacts both in Canada and abroad.

“It is a privilege for me to welcome Sandra to the WEEDC team. Her arrival as WEEDC CEO sends a strong signal to business: Windsor-Essex is ready to compete and show how profitable we can be. Sandra has been one of this region’s most passionate, energetic and effective advocates of our time. Prospective investors are sure to never forget Windsor-Essex after meeting with Sandra, and we couldn’t be happier with her decision to join WEEDC,” said Board Chair Joseph Byrne.

“Sandra Pupatello brings to WEEDC what few others can: Solid relationships with businesses around the globe, an inside-out knowledge of economic development within Ontario, the thorough understanding of our region’s strengths and opportunities amassed over her lifetime residency here, and a sincere love for her hometown and its people. Windsor welcomes the appointment of Sandra Pupatello as Chief Executive Officer of the Windsor-Essex County Economic Development Corporation, and we look forward to working with Sandra to grow business within the City of Windsor and the greater Essex County region,” said Windsor Mayor Eddie Francis.

“Essex County is delighted to welcome Sandra Pupatello to the position of CEO of the Windsor Essex County Economic Development Corporation. Sandra is blessed in that you’ll never see modesty from her when she’s speaking about our region and its accomplishments. Essex County looks forward to continuing the strong expertise and positive impacts that she has brought to each of her roles, and to further enriching the crucial services that WEEDC provides,” said Essex County Warden Tom Bain.

Under Ms. Pupatello’s leadership, Windsor-Essex will continue to be strategic as it continues to strengthen and diversify its regional economic base.

About the WindsorEssex Economic Development Corporation (WEEDC) – The WEEDC is the lead economic development agency proudly representing Windsor-Essex, Ontario, Canada’s fastest growing economy (Conference Board of Canada), one of the world’s Top 7 most intelligent communities (Intelligent Community Forum) and FDi’s 2013/14 Best FDi Strategy, Small City, Runner Up. Acting as a catalyst and network developer WEEDC works to positively impact the region by providing services including business attraction, retention and expansion, small business and entrepreneurial development, and community development activities. For more information on previous awards please visit www.choosewindsoressex.com/awards.

CONTACTS:
Joseph Byrne, Chair,
WindsorEssex Economic Development Corp.
Tel: 519-257-0460

Lana Drouillard, Director, Marketing & Communications
WindsorEssex Economic Development Corp.
Tel: 519-259-9600

Less Than 2 Weeks Left To Apply to the Spin Master Innovation Fund!

Created by the Canadian Youth Business Foundation (CYBF) and Spin Master Ltd., this fund provides financing, mentoring, and an innovation workshop, to up to ten innovative Canadian start-ups in order to help them start and run successful businesses.

Open to entrepreneurs ages 18-39, recipients will receive:

  • Up to $50,000 in financing;
  • Two years of business mentoring;
  • An exclusive innovation workshop;
  • Expert advice from Spin Master executives; and
  • Access to helpful business resources & CYBF’s community of over 5,000 members.

More information is available at www.cybf.ca/innovation. Application deadline is 5:00pm EST on May 21.

We are happy to provide some sample social media posts you can use until applications close:

  • Innovative #startups: only 2 weeks left to apply for $50k financing, mentoring & expert advice http://bit.ly/j9EC3F #SMIF13  
  • Deadline is May 21 for CYBF’s Spin Master Innovation Fund! $50k financing & mentoring Apply now http://bit.ly/j9EC3F #SMIF13
  • Boost your innovative start-up w/ CYBF’s Spin Master Innovation Fund! $50k financing & mentoring Apply now http://bit.ly/j9EC3F #SMIF13
  • Are you 18-39, innovative & ready to boost your start-up? CYBF’s Spin Master Innovation Fund is for you http://bit.ly/j9EC3F #SMIF13

 

Assumption H.S and WEtech at Robotics World Championship

AssumptionThe rookie robotics team from Assumption High School and WEtech Alliance attended the FIRST Robotics World Championship in St. Louis, where over 25,000 spectators and students from elementary all the way up to high school participated in the four-day tournament.

Assumption competed against 400 high schools from 40 countries and they represented quite well, winning a quarter of their matches.

The event was highlighted by stirring speeches from the executives of Boeing, Rockwell Automation, GM as well as a star appearance by pop star Will.i.am.

FIRST stands for For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology and it is an international robotics competition for 250,000 students at the grade school (LEGO Robotics) and high school level (FRC).  Students who compete in FIRST are twice as likely to attend college or university and twice as likely to major in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM).

Here is an excellent video from the Chrysler Foundation that talks about FIRST and why major companies are investing in the program: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IppTdkRcoXs&feature=player_embedded

WEtech Alliance is spearheading the expansion of FIRST Robotics in Windsor and Essex, with plans to have 10 high school teams competing in the region.  WEtech has also submitted a bid to host a regional robotics tournament at the University of Windsor in April, 2014 that will bring 1,200 high school students from across Ontario, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and as far away as California, Mexico etc.

Those interested in starting a FIRST Robotics team are encouraged to contact Dr. Irek Kusmierczyk, Director of Robotics and Youth Programs, at WEtech Alliance.

Pourtrait.com Launches Beta Testing Phase

Pourtrait.com was initially created to provide an online marketing solution for producers of beverage alcohol through a industry driven network that showcases their story and brands. In developing this platform the unique relationship that exists between the producer and restaurant came to the forefront. Restaurants have the ability to showcase products not readily available at local retail stores, creating a positive consumer experience and brand awareness. Pourtrait.com has evolved into a integrated online solution for producers and licensed establishments while creating a dynamic online user experience across Food and Drink.

Through Pourtrait.com restaurant/bar owners can effectively showcase their Food and Drink Menus, Daily Specials, New Features, and Events online. Individuals will be able to find daily specials, specific beverages and menu items, outdoor patio’s, live entertainment and make reservations online. Take a picture and tag menu items, beverages and friends. Social interaction and gamification of food and drink experiences will be implemented upon full launch later this year.

A few things about Pourtrait.com:

  • Pourtrait.com is a custom marketing solution for members of the beverage alcohol supply chain.
  • By empowering individuals to learn and discover genuine producers of wine, spirits and beer, Pourtrait.com will help in the modernization of the beverage alcohol industry.
  • Responsible consumerism and the economic impact on local producers is the cornerstone for Pourtrait.com
  • Pourtrait.com has partnered with elevenwinds (a web development/technology company) to bring Pourtrait to live.
  • Pourtrait is currently in its Beta Testing Phase and preparing to set sail!
  • Pourtrait.com is actively signing up Producers of Wine, Spirits, Beer as well as Restaurants as part of a two month free Beta trial.

For more information, visit them at http://www.pourtrait.com/.

City of Windsor Commissions Second Solar Powered People Mover

Windsor On, May 2nd 2013 – The City of Windsor has today commissioned a second Solar Powered People Mover into their fleet. The 10 passenger vehicle was designed and built for The City of Windsor by Windsor’s own Unconquered Sun Solar Technologies Inc. and marks Windsor Ontario’s leadership in environmentally sustainable fleet management. Across the province of Ontario and beyond, municipalities have been mandated to reduce carbon emissions from their fleet vehicles.

Recently, Unconquered Sun Solar Technologies Inc. introduced to the electric vehicle market market an Electric Vehicle Solar Roof which allows an EV to recharge during operation, this reduces/ eliminates energy cost by minimizing the need to plug in to re-power. Unconquered Sun has since won contracts to build Solar Powered Electric Vehicles for numerous golf courses, the City of Toronto, Windsor, Tecumseh and N.A.S.A.

Unconquered Sun Has also recently penned an exclusive Ontario wide distribution agreement with Star EV, a U.S. electric vehicle manufacturer and will be lending Unconquered Sun patented Solar Roof technology to these vehicles which will be sold throughout North America. Three of these vehicles, including a Solar Powered Bus will be on permanent display in Unconquered Sun’s new EV showroom.

“We have recently married the new renewable solar technology we are capable of producing with Automotive technology that has made this area famous for the past 100 years, and the result has been phenomenal.”

Our goal is, and has always been.. to see the resurgence of Windsor Essex as a place second to none for sustainable hi-tech manufacturing and this is just another piece of the puzzle.Windsor Ontario could be the Palo Alto (Silicon Valley) of Canada. Unconquered Sun intends to relentlessly pursue innovation with all of our energy every single day, and in this case, to vanguard Electric Vehicles and Electric Vehicle technology and equipment throughout Ontario and beyond.”

Sean Moore, Founder and CEO Unconquered Sun Solar Technologies Inc.

Where to Network this May

Windsor Business to Business Networking Online: A Facebook Group dedicated to building relationships online between Windsor-Essex businesses.  Join the Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/windsorbusiness.

Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce After Business Networking Evening: If you have never attended an “After Business” event, you are missing a great marketing opportunity. The next event takes place on May 2nd at The Bloomin’ Gardner (6673 – 8th Concession, Oldcastle) from 5-7PM. Admission is only $10 and includes complimentary hot and cold appetizers compliments of ll Gabbiano Ristorante & Catering, $5 drinks and your chance to win a variety of door prizes. Tickets can be purchased online at www.windsorchamber.org.

Drink and Draw: Drink and Draw is a weekly social gathering for artists and art-enthusiasts alike. Club members are encouraged to bring sketchbooks and drawing supplies to various bars and pubs in the Windsor area each week and enjoy a drink while creating art with like-minded individuals! It’s the best way to practice your craft and network with peers! The next session takes place on Friday, May 3rd at 8:00PM. There is no cost to attend. For more information, visit www.fb.com/DrinkandDrawWindsor.

Windsor Business Networks: Meets the second Thursday of every month. The network’s goal is to help promote local businesses exchange ideas for a stronger local economy. This month the Windsor Business Network welcomes guest speaker Ed Roach, The Branding Expert, to discuss tips and information to help you accomplish your business goals by harnessing the essence of your brand and allowing it to resonate with your stakeholders. The next session is scheduled for May 9th at Oasis Lounge at Place Concorde (7515 Forest Glade Drive) from 6:30-9PM. Admission is $6 at the door. A portion of the funds will be used to buy food (e.g.: pasta, sauce, peanut butter, canned goods) which will be donated to the Downtown Mission. For more information, click here.

The WindsorEssex Circle: Meets monthly at various locations across Windsor. The group defines itself as like-minded business professionals working together to make introductions, have good discussion and create opportunities for each other. The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 9th from 5:00-7:00PM at The Windsor Club (100 Ouellette Avenue). There is no cost to attend. For more information, click here.

Windsor Essex Networking Association For Geriatrics (WE NAG): This networking group consists of individuals, businesses, services, companies, non-profits and organizations that cater to our seniors and their families in our community. Invitations are extended to the attendees that fit into this criteria. There is no cost to attend. Breakfast, coffee and tea are provided. WE NAG is wonderful opportunity for greeting and eating, talking and listening and always, building trust among your colleagues to ultimately increase your business potential. Each attendee is allotted 30 second for commercial and event announcements. Bring your marketing material! The next meeting is scheduled for May 14th  from 8:30-10AM at Centres For Seniors (635 McEwan Avenue, Windsor, ON N9B 2E9). For newcomers, email marilyn@movinginharmony.com or call Moving In Harmony at 519-251-1741.

Biz X Patio Mixer: Meets the second Tuesday of every month at various locations across Windsor. The next event takes place on Tuesday, May 14th from 5-9PM. The month the event will begin at 5pm at the Downtown Windsor Business Accelerator (720 Ouellette Avenue) with a tour of their facility and a meet & greet with the entrepreneur tenants. Then at 6pm attendees will mosey over to the Bull N Barrel patio. The Biz MiXer is open to all business professionals.  Admission is $10 and includes yummy appetizers, mixer games, door prizes, and much much more. MAY SPECIAL: For all you race fans out there! To help celebrate this year’s Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix (May 31-June 2) Biz X magazine has brought in the actual CDBIGP Show Car all the way from Detroit exclusively for this event!!! You will be able to get an up close look at this piece of machinery and it will be available for photos free of charge courtesy Biz X Magazine.  Please RSVP to be a part of this event to mixer@bizxmagazine.com. For more details, click here.

Windsor Women of Influence: Meets monthly. The next event takes place on Wednesday, May 22nd from 5:3opm-8:00pm at Spago Ristorante (690 Erie Street East). Please join the Windsor Women of Influence as they continue to build our community of inspiration, motivation and support by attending our seventh networking event. Ronna Warsh of Ronna Hope Warsh Leadership Coaching is this month’s guest speaker. She will discuss how women can become inspirational leaders whom other people want to follow. The cost to attend is $15/pp. For more information or to RSVP, please contact Liz Nheme at lnehme@deloitte.ca.

The Cooperative Marketing Group (CMG) and Standard of Excellence for Women: Meets the third Monday of every month at different locations in the city that are part of the PLD Network. As the third Monday of May is Victoria Day, the May event is scheduled for Monday, May 27th from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Grill 55(1855 Huron Church Road). The cost to attend is $20 which includes food, a donation to SoE, the opportunity to listen to the monthly guest speaker and to promote your business to and network with other business owners in attendance. Please RSVP to Frank D’Agnillo at 519-259-7065 or frank4pld@cogeco.ca or to Karen Taylor at 519-817-1936 or standardofexcellenceforwomen@gmail.com by May 17, 2013.

Windsor Women Accelerate – Women’s Entrepreneurial Network: On Thursday, May 30th the Accelerator will host the inaugural evening of the Windsor Women Accelerate networking series. The purpose of this initiative is to bring together women that are passionate about entrepreneurship, social enterprise and who want to make a positive impact on our region. The event will feature Ms. Pat Soulliere, President and CEO of Soulliere Financial Group, and a prominent member of the Coalition12 of Entrepreneurial Leaders (C-12). This event will provide an opportunity for the women attending to network and discuss entrepreneurship in a supportive and enjoyable environment, while getting a taste of what the Accelerator has to offer. This wine and cheese networking event will also feature a ‘Stella and Dot’ jewelry trunk show, with independent star stylist Jeanine Jodoin. For more information, visit http://windsorwomenaccelerate.eventbrite.com.

JEDI Master Club (Episode III): Accessing Resources to Grow Your GAMING Business

This session will discuss the many available resources available through The Canadian Digital Media Network (CDMN) (http://www.cdmn.ca/) as well as CDMN’s involvement with the gaming world.

About our Guest Speaker: Bob Embleton, Director, Network Partnerships at the Canadian Digital Media Network 

From international channel development, product management and operations leadership to successful entrepreneur, Robert Embleton builds upon 20 years of cross-sector experience to help organizations start, grow and succeed in regional, national and international markets in his current role as Director, Network Partnerships for the Canadian Digital Media Network (CDMN). His deep technical expertise includes R&D, design, manufacturing and the distribution of products and services. Robert has applied that breadth of knowledge in a diverse range of industries, from medical devices to motorsports; industrial quality assurance systems to research support systems including hardware, software and client support. Most recently, he engineered the CDMN’s Soft-Landings Program and Collaboration Community, doubling the size of the CDMN national network of accelerator centres while connecting Canadian companies with sales and finance opportunities from Costa Rica to New York; from Germany to Brazil.

Seating is very limited so please REGISTER TODAY at www.jedimasterclub.eventbrite.com

 

 

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