Northumberland County has announced the launch of a 33-member coalition poised to promote and bolster the local economy amidst growing economic challenges due to the ongoing tensions around international trade.
Called “Prosper in Northumberland,” the coalition is comprised of 33 Northumberland businesses, associations, municipalities, and community members.
The endeavour is a collaborative initiative intended to champion local businesses, strengthen the economy, “and stand proudly behind local goods and services,” a media release from Northumberland County noted.
Prosper in Northumberland encompasses a commitment to making purchases locally, investing in homegrown businesses, and, ultimately, supporting the livelihoods of fellow Northumberland residents through these actions.
“Prosper in Northumberland is not just an initiative — it’s a movement,” the county noted. “Together, Northumberland organizations and residents will take action to build resilience and empower our community to thrive.”
Kate Campbell, Northumberland County’s director of communications, told kawarthaNOW the impetus for the coalition stems from meetings held earlier this winter of municipal CAOs and economic development officers in all seven municipalities.
They gathered in February to develop a coordinated response to the recent trade developments, particularly the U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods that were introduced earlier in March.
“Local municipalities are working together to ensure Northumberland’s concerns are heard by all levels of government,” Northumberland County CAO Jennifer Moore told kawarthaNOW at the time. “We are teaming up to support local businesses, bolster our economy, and strengthen pride in our community.”
Now comes the roll-out of Prosper in Northumberland, which includes the measures listed below.
Support for local business owners
There will be workshops, resources, and training opportunities to help local entrepreneurs impacted by current economic conditions.
Stronger connections
The initiative will encompass new opportunities for business collaboration and mutual growth, including business-to-business partnerships and resources.
The return of a Buy Local campaign
“Starting with a fresh, reinvigorated campaign launching this spring,” Northumberland will be encouraging everyone in the community to make a pledge to redirect a specific portion of their shopping budget from online retailers or out-of-town stores to local businesses.
“By doing so, you’ll not only be helping to sustain jobs but also contribute to the growth of your local economy. This campaign is about making a statement that we are proudly Northumberland, proud to shop local, and proud to support Canadian businesses right here in Northumberland.”
Research and advocacy
Northumberland will be actively gathering data to understand the impact of trade tariffs and economic uncertainty in the community, “ensuring Northumberland voices and experiences are heard at all levels of government, and pushing for the support our businesses need to continue to grow.”
The county said while the economic landscape is shifting, the resolve of the Northumberland community is strong.
“It is more important than ever before that we stand united to support and promote small business in Northumberland,” said Northumberland-Peterborough South MPP David Piccini in a statement. “I am proud to represent a community that works collaboratively in times of uncertainty to address the challenges ahead but also build an even more resilient and prosperous business environment.”
“Small business and local entrepreneurs are the backbone of our economy and by creating a network of support between businesses and encouraging all residents to buy locally where possible, Northumberland will come through this uncertain time more united than before.”
Nancy Allanson, CEO of the Trent Hills Chamber of Commerce and chair of the Prosper in Northumberland Community Engagement & Consumer Initiatives Team, said the initiative allows the community a chance “to take a proactive approach to economic resilience.”
“By encouraging local purchasing, strengthening business connections, and fostering a shared commitment to economic sustainability, this initiative will create lasting benefits for businesses and residents alike,” Allanson said.
Northumberland County said it will be providing more details about the Prosper in Northumberland initiative and the revitalized Buy Local campaign in the coming weeks.
