Newsletter

 

As we move into fall, Summerside’s Economic Development Office (EDO) is renewing its commitment to supporting our local business community—and that starts with stronger connections. Whether you’re expanding, hiring, launching something new, or simply looking to stay informed, we want to hear from you.

Here are a few ways your business can engage with us this season:

✅  Update Your Business Listing

Help customers—and the city—find you. We’re updating the Summerside Business Directory to ensure it reflects our growing and diverse local economy. If your contact info, services, or location has changed, or you’re not yet listed, take a moment to submit your details. An up-to-date directory helps us promote your business and connect you with new opportunities.

✅  Share Your News
Are you expanding, hiring, celebrating a milestone, or launching a new product or service? We’d love to help amplify your story. The EDO regularly shares local business updates through newsletters, social media, and other communications. Let us know what’s happening—we’re here to celebrate your success.

✅  Access Business Support
Need help attracting talent, promoting your business, or planning your next move? The EDO offers free consultations, labour attraction support, and connections to promotional opportunities. Whether you’re facing challenges or exploring growth, we can help point you in the right direction.

✅  We Want Your Feedback
Our work is shaped by your input. If there are ways we can better support local business—or if you’d like to collaborate on future initiatives—we’re all ears. Drop us a line, schedule a chat, or stop by—we’re always looking for ways to build a more connected and resilient business community.

The Secret’s Out: Investors Are Betting Big on Downtown Summerside

Downtown Summerside is on the rise — and the numbers prove it. With over $20 million in transformative developments already underway, this historic core is experiencing a bold resurgence that’s redefining what it means to live, work, and invest in Prince Edward Island’s second-largest city.

Anchored by landmark projects like The Regent, a modern residential and commercial development, and the ambitious revitalization of the former Bank of Nova Scotia building, the face of downtown is changing — quickly and intentionally. What was once a well-kept secret is now a clear signal to investors: Downtown Summerside is open for business.

 

A Walkable Urban Core With Real Momentum

At the heart of Summerside’s transformation is a vision for a vibrant, walkable downtown district — a place where people can live steps away from their workspaces, grab coffee on the way to meetings, enjoy waterfront trails, and shop local all within a few blocks. It's not just an idea on paper. Since 2016, downtown residency has surged by 28%, reflecting strong demand for urban living and a lifestyle shift toward convenience, community, and connection.

This momentum isn’t by chance. It’s the result of strategic investment, forward-thinking urban planning, and a collaborative public-private effort to breathe new life into the city’s historic core.


Strong Economic Fundamentals

Summerside’s economic foundation is built on diversity, resilience, and innovation. With sectors ranging from clean tech and aerospace to marine industries and healthcare, the city offers a balanced ecosystem that supports sustainable growth. Downtown’s resurgence is supported by a business-friendly environment, available real estate opportunities, and a growing population of professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives seeking urban amenities in a coastal setting.


The Investment Case Has Never Been Stronger for Downtown

For investors, the appeal is clear:

The Secret’s Out. The Time Is Now.

What was once considered a hidden gem on Prince Edward Island is now gaining national attention. Downtown Summerside is no longer the “next big thing” — it’s happening right now. Whether you’re a real estate developer, entrepreneur, or impact investor looking to be part of a community-focused growth story, Downtown Summerside offers a rare combination of affordability, momentum, and vision.


The opportunity is here — and it’s growing.

Now is not just a good time to invest in Downtown Summerside.

It’s the best time.


 

Investing in Net Zero: A Smart Business Strategy for Summerside

The global shift toward sustainability is reshaping how business is done—and going net zero is no longer just a climate responsibility, it’s a competitive advantage. For Summerside businesses, the timing couldn’t be better to act.

Why Net Zero Makes Business Sense
Achieving net-zero emissions isn’t just good for the planet—it’s good for your bottom line. Here’s how:

• Cut Costs through energy-efficient buildings, smart systems, and cleaner processes.
• Attract Capital as investors increasingly fund businesses with strong ESG performance.
• Appeal to Talent & Customers who prioritize sustainability.
• Future-Proof Operations against evolving regulations and carbon pricing.

Major corporations like Microsoft and Walmart are already demanding low-carbon practices from suppliers. Local businesses that don’t adapt risk being left behind.
 
Summerside: Your Net Zero Advantage
With city-owned utilities and forward-thinking infrastructure, Summerside is uniquely positioned to lead. Highlights include:

• A 21 MW solar farm—one of Canada’s largest municipally led projects.
• Battery storage systems are improving grid resilience.
• The EcoBusiness Park and Building Zero—hubs for clean energy innovation, training, and business development.

Businesses here can reduce costs, pilot new technologies, and access a growing clean tech ecosystem.

Five Ways to Get Started Now

1. Conduct a Carbon Audit – Identify your emissions; funding may be available.
2. Upgrade Facilities – Retrofit lighting, improve insulation, or install smart systems.
3. Partner Locally – Work with regional clean tech firms to implement solar, EV charging, and more.
4. Share Your Story – Let customers know how you’re taking action, and they’ll reward you for it.

The Risk of Waiting
Regulations are tightening. Costs for carbon-heavy operations will rise. Supply chains are demanding sustainability. Businesses that wait may fall behind on costs, contracts, and competitiveness.

Ready to Lead?
Summerside offers the tools, infrastructure, and support for businesses to thrive in a net-zero future. All that’s missing is your commitment.
 
Let’s build a cleaner, stronger, more competitive Summerside—together.
 
Exciting things are happening in Summerside, and there’s never been a better time to get involved. Whether you’re thinking about investing in our booming downtown or growing your local business, the Economic Development Office is here to help make it happen. Ready to take the next step? Reach out to us today, and let’s work together to turn your ideas into reality.

Summerside is growing — don’t miss out!