The role of the NB Social Policy Research Network (NB-SPRN) is to advance an evidence-based approach to socio-economic policy development. Key to the Network’s mandate is identifying occasions for knowledge mobilization and collaboration between knowledge providers, such as researchers, and non-profit organizations and knowledge users, such as governments, industry, labour and business.

Due to the current economic climate in our province, there is a justified preoccupation with Economic Development; how to cause it, measure it and sustain it. NB-SPRN wishes to contribute to this discourse by creating an opportunity for Economic Development partners to come together to consider the various policy research elements, such as business supports, training programs, industry infrastructure and quality of life considerations, in addition to identifying best practices in other jurisdictions, measurements of impact, and sharing of data to ensure optimal Economic Development decision-making.

The forum will begin with a panel discussion addressing the topic, “What is good Economic Development policy?” On the panel will be representatives from the business sector, academia, government and community non-profit sector, each bringing their own informed perspective on the issue. Someone working within the business support community able to draw out of each contributor their ideas on how New Brunswick can develop public policy that produces a positive Economic Development climate will moderate the panel.

Economic Development is a complex issue as many variables contribute to its success. This forum will take a holistic approach to this topic by considering the various policy research elements that contribute to the discourse. Breakout groups will explore the many components of creating good economic development policy, expanding the discussion beyond what is typically considered.

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