Two local economic development champions were honoured during Thursday’s Wellington County council meeting with a new award named in honour of past county warden and economic development committee chair George Bridge.
The George Bridge Economic Development Awards “recognize individuals that have made an outstanding contribution to economic development in Wellington County,” current economic development committee chair Jeff Duncan said, noting there are two categories.
Wellington-Waterloo Community Futures (WWCF) retired general manager Rick Whittaker was honoured with the 2024 Community Economic Development Influencer of the Year Award.
Puslinch Township communications and committee coordinator Laura Emery received the 2024 Young Professional Economic Development Influencer of the Year Award.
Duncan described Whittaker, who just retired from his position with WWCF after 22 years, as an “individual who has a significant impact in helping over 6,800 businesses start” across Wellington County and Waterloo Region, “providing them with loans, grant, advice and quite often a shoulder to cry on.”
Among his achievements, Whittaker oversaw an organization which provided $31.4 million in business loans over 500 businesses, creating more than 4,800 jobs, and also worked with Warden Chris White to establish the county’s economic development committee, Duncan said.
The second award recognizes an individual who is “new to the profession,” said Duncan.
He listed Emery’s achievements in her last year and half with Puslinch Township, saying organized a showcase, developed a business directory, launched a community guide, and has worked to support local businesses.
“She’s a passionate young lady, and her efforts are well-received by the community,” Duncan said.
Bridge, who was present for the award presentation, thanked council for creating recognition for the economic development community, noting that economic development is often something behind the scenes that supports growth in other areas.
“You can’t praise people in economic development enough,” he said.