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Regional revival underway in Niagara Falls

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Conventional wisdom says that as a story begins, so too must it end. But what if your story isn’t done being told?

From an outsider’s perspective, it’s typical to view Niagara Falls solely as a world-famous travel destination visited by millions every year. If you’re a local, however, you know tourism is simply one chapter in a much larger story.

Like every memorable tale, Niagara Falls begins with a unique destination. Situated on the easternmost point of a peninsula, the city is bordered by a small network of vibrant towns and cities on one side and the dynamic counties and communities of Western New York on the other. The movement of goods and people has historically played a major role in making the region what it is today, with assets like strategic waterways and cross-border passages serving to intensify its dominance in the manufacturing sector. Yet just as the economic climate has shifted in recent decades, so too has there been a need for Niagara’s regional economy to shift in the direction of change and innovation.

And so, as part of a region-wide attitude intent on taking action, Niagara Falls is joining its municipal counterparts to add a new theme to its story: revitalization. Every day, the spirit of knowledge exchange sweeps through the region’s post-secondary educational institutions, powering the momentum of small- and medium-sized companies that have chosen to retain their young talent. Emerging generations are putting down roots and coming up with creative solutions to tackle the challenges of yesterday and tomorrow, and entrepreneurs from all walks of life are bringing new ideas and innovations to the fore.

One doesn’t need to look far to find homegrown success stories, especially in areas like health, bioscience, and education technology. Organizations are bridging ties between industries to diversify the local economy, and business leaders, educators, and forward-thinking minds from across the region are collaborating to create new and exciting economic opportunities.

“All of the changes taking place in Niagara right now is really what motivated me to want to work in this part of the province,” says Judy Mahoney, who recently took on the role of Vice President, Sales & Marketing, at Scotiabank Convention Centre and Niagara Falls Business Events. “The more I get familiar with Niagara Falls the city, the more I see Niagara Falls’ worth as a leading business events destination. In the people I’ve met and the things I’ve learned so far, I’m convinced this region is undergoing a remarkable revival. I know for certain that location is one of, if not the, most important factors for hosting a business event. Planners who are seriously looking at our destination, taking into account the growth and development happening here, can expect to find what they’re looking for in Niagara Falls.”

No doubt, Niagara Falls’ story is much larger than its unique surroundings. And as the region continues to give rise to exciting new partnerships, entertainment offerings, and world-class organizations, it will continue to hold a title role in the business events world.

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Association Insights
Originally printed: January 16, 2018
By Matt Bradford
© 2018 Canadian Society of Association Executives

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Peterborough & the Kawarthas is a class above when it comes to Meetings, Conferences and Sporting Events

Located in the vibrant City of Peterborough, Trent is easily accessible from major centres, including Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal. Trent University offers more than just an impressive Canada event setting; we make it easy to plan your conference or special event. Our professional planning team will ensure your Trent experience is rewarding for all. With four distinctive colleges spread across 1500 acres, Trent presents you with a wonderful variety of accommodations, award-winning architecture, meeting spaces and athletic facilities. All-inclusive packages are available for any type of Ontario, Canada event: conferences, sporting competitions, banquets, weddings, or corporate meetings. Check out www.meetatrent.com to learn why Trent University is the ideal space for your next Ontario, Canada conference, event or meeting.

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Book your conferences at Fleming College’s Peterborough or Lindsay campus and enjoy the best conference rates in the Kawarthas!
Our staff will ensure your conference is a complete success. We are here to assist you with planning all the details – from room bookings, meeting space, food services and technical requirements. Check out www.flemingcollege.ca/conference-services for more details.
Fleming’s residence facilities offer suite style accommodations, designed for larger conference group activity. Large groups are considered a minimum of 18 and up to 300 at Sutherland Residence Village and 100 at Frost Residence.
At the Sutherland Campus, you have access to the adjacent 58,000 square foot Sport & Wellness Centre.

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Toronto Takeaways

6ix in the City Toronto has many nicknames—Hogtown, the Big Smoke, T.O. and T-Dot—but when Canadian rapper Drake dubbed his hometown “The Six” Torontonians never looked back. Here are 6ix uniquely Toronto ideas for delegate welcome gifts, thank-you treats and giveaways.

1. MakeLab’s Edible Selfie Photo Booth lets guests make their own personalized treats. A laser cutting and engraving machine laser-caramelizes photos onto macarons and cookies for a sweet takeaway.makelab.ca
   

   

2. Main and Local is a sassy souvenir supplier offering city-inspired gifts “that don’t suck.” Its fun conversation pieces include socks celebrating Toronto public transit, Canadian Mounties and sock aficionado Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Inspired by Andy Warhol’s Pop Art style, raccoon coasters are a reminder that Toronto is city where many cultures—and an abundance of raccoons—live in harmony.mainandlocal.com
   

   

3. This copper plated Anigram Reindeer Ring Holder—designed by Ontario College of Art and Design University grad Sun Wook Park for Canadian design phenomenon, Umbra—is inspired by modern animal shapes and sculptures.umbra.com
   

   

4. Pure maple cubes are handmade with love by Sixty Six Brix. Grate flakes of maple over your favourite sweet or savoury dish for a unique twist. Wow gala event attendees with The Maple Six tasting station, where guests can watch pieces of sharp artisan cheese being wrapped in ribbons of pure frosted maple taffy. sixtysixbrix.com
   

   

5. Calming, refreshing or energizing, these small-batch facial mists by Woodlot from the Likely General Store are a great way to relax after a busy day. Choose from aromas of Juniper, cedar and lavender, bergamot and lavender, or a combination of rose, palo santo and geranium.likelygeneral.com
   

   

6. Succulent Chocolates and Sweets hand crafted artisan bonbons are a luxurious treat, made with 35 per cent cream, butter, real fruit and real whole nuts, and available in bold and natural flavours from Chili Pepper to Espresso Bean to Earl Grey Tea. succulentchocolates.com
   

   

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Every Neighbourhood Tells a Story

Every Neighbourhood Tells a Story Toronto isn’t all glass towers and glittering skyscrapers. A proud “city of neighbourhoods,” Toronto has revitalized three of its key heritage districts, where the unique cultural vibe, attractions and stylish venues inspire Instagram-worthy moments.

THE DISTILLERY DISTRICT

The collection of Victorian-era industrial buildings, that were once part of the Gooderham & Worts Distillery, have been authentically restored and retrofitted to house cute cafés, fashionable shops, cutting-edge restaurants and cultural spaces. The district is a National Heritage Site and a must-see for visitors to Toronto.

Cluny Bistro Private Dining Room: A modern French casual bistro, Cluny’s private dining room can host 80 for a seated dinner.

Archeo: Located in the old carpentry shop, the warm and intimate space is accented by high yellow pine ceilings, exposed brick walls and reclaimed timber bar and tabletops. Hosts 150 for cocktails and 118 for a plated event.

The Loft: The newly renovated mezzanine level of The Boiler House features stunning décor against a historic backdrop, harvest-style tables and a 20-foot bar. Hosts 120 for cocktails.

The Fermenting Cellar: This 7,500-sq.-ft. flagship venue, with its heavy timber beams, 32-foot high ceilings and industrial chic vibe, is a blank canvas for gatherings of 600 for cocktails and 350 for a plated dinner.

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LIBERTY VILLAGE

The 19th century factories and warehouses that dot the Liberty Village neighbourhood just west of downtown are now home to tech startups, cozy cafés and enterprising restaurants. Mildred’s Temple Kitchen is a popular local hangout serving locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Its VIP seating area gives groups of 14 an exclusive, behind-the-scenes view of the kitchen. The restaurant can host 100 for a sit down dinner or 200 for a cocktail reception.

Caffino Ristorante: Classic Italian food is served in a former Victorian rug-making factory; beautifully renovated with soaring windows, high ceilings and an outdoor courtyard. The dining room can host 125 for dinner.

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EVERGREEN BRICK WORKS

An oasis of calm in the bustling city, the Brick Works was once a noisy brickmaking factory and quarry. Today, wildlife thrives in peaceful ponds and meadows where the quarry once stood. The site’s collection of sustainably-focused new and original structures (16 of which are deemed historically significant), as well as imaginative outdoor spaces, play host to community festivals, workshops and art installations. Tap into teambuilding opportunities, such as outdoor seasonal planting or ice skating.

The CRH Gallery and Koerner Gardens: A 28,000 sq.-ft. bright and versatile space featuring long kilns and drying tunnels lit by architectural lighting.

The Pavilions: A centrally located and covered 25,000 sq.-ft. outdoor space with capacity for 2,000 guests.

The BMO Atrium: Located in the Platinum Centre for Green Cities and with capacity for 250 guests, this versatile space is a combination of industrial brick and modern architecture accented by graffiti walls and soaring ceilings.

Frances and Tim Price Terrace: This 7,500 sq.-ft. outdoor space provides an impressive panoramic view of the ponds and the Weston Family Quarry Garden.

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For the Foodie

Inspired by crisp mountain air, soaring views and dramatic natural landscapes, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise’s renowned culinary team offers a truly authentic taste of the Canadian Rockies. We feature the freshest seasonal ingredients from the fertile grounds of local surrounding farms and selections from the nearby. We are committed to building a more sustainable world while creating unique and memorable experiences for our guests. We support healthy communities and ecosystems by choosing local, sustainable ingredients wherever possible.

Nestled right in the heart of Banff National Park, the legendary Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise will set the mood for breathtaking events, family celebrations, successful meetings and memorable stays. Whether it’s a grand fairytale wedding, a charity gala or an intimate meeting of executives, it would be our pleasure to host your next event, in true Rocky Mountain style.

Learn more about our Executive Chef, Jean-Francois Fortin

Explore the restaurants and lounges at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.