THUNDER BAY – BUSINESS – Thunder Bay Ventures, a Community Futures Development Corporation (CFDC) funded by FedNor/Innovation Science and Economic Development Canada, provides programs and services to support community economic development and small business growth in Thunder Bay, including:
- Access to capital for small- and medium-sized businesses and social enterprises;
- Support for community-based projects;
- Business information and planning services;
- Strategic community planning and socio-economic development.
Following many years of service, Royden Potvin will be retiring from his role as Manager of Thunder Bay Ventures, effective September 30, 2019. Royden has helped guide Thunder Bay Ventures through significant changes in our Thunder Bay economy and has provided support to many local entrepreneurs. Royden was also instrumental in facilitating the Northwestern Ontario Investment Pool, which creates opportunities to provide more significant loans to businesses throughout Northwestern Ontario, by leveraging the investment funds from Community Futures Development Corporations from across the region.
While Royden is looking forward to a well-earned retirement, he will miss working with the many local entrepreneurs and partners in our community. “It has been terrific to play a role in growing and diversifying our local economy”, said Potvin. “I wish Thunder Bay Ventures the very best and I look forward to seeing exciting work ahead”.
On behalf of the Board of Thunder Bay Ventures, President Wayne Fletcher thanked Royden for his years of leadership and service. “Royden has been the face and voice of Thunder Bay Ventures and has represented us with distinction”, said Fletcher. “We wish him the very best.”
Following an extensive search with the help of locally owned Speziale Recruiting, the Board of Thunder Bay Ventures is pleased to announce that Martin Wyant has been hired as Executive Director, effective August 26, 2019. Wayne Fletcher believes that Wyant’s mix of successful private sector and non-profit experience will serve the organization well. “Martin’s broad background, which includes leadership roles in community economic development, business development, telecom, manufacturing, employment services, social services, and student services, will serve us and our Thunder Bay community well,” said Fletcher.
Wyant is excited to join the Thunder Bay Ventures team. “Having worked in a number of communities, I can see that Thunder Bay has many important assets that can help us move our economy forward”, said Wyant. “I’m looking forward to working with our Board and our partners to build on the success we have achieved and chart the course ahead.”
