Valley REN launches new site selector digital tool, first-of-its-kind in Atlantic Canada

The Valley Regional Enterprise Network (Valley REN) is excited to announce the launch of the Annapolis Valley Site Selector Tool; a first of its kind in Atlantic Canada. The Site Selector Tool is created by GIS WebTech, Esri’s only partner in economic development. They created a platform, called Guru, which is the world’s most advanced online site selection technology. This tool accesses real time data from Esri, a leading geographic information system leveraging mapping and spatial analytics. Tailored for investors, entrepreneurs and economic developers, this innovative tool simplifies the site selection process, offering a blend of demographic, economic, and labour market data at your fingertips. The Valley REN’s Guru has the unique ability to also layer the region’s zoning data which was accessed through partnerships with Valley REN’s funding municipalities. Board Chair, Paul Dixon, says, "Our stakeholders have voiced a need for a comprehensive land and asset database solution from the Valley REN, and today, we are excited to fulfill that request. This product not only serves as a powerful site selector tool but also promises to be a cornerstone in attracting economic development. The board extends its gratitude to the dedicated REN staff for their hard work in delivering a solution that is both impactful and cost-effective." The Valley REN Team is excited to be able to utilize this tool in their work on behalf of the region. “Economic developers have long needed a tool to help quickly access, in one place, available commercial land and leasing information. We frequently are asked where a business can locate that will meet their specific requirements. This tool provides a method to pull in commercial space that is for sale and rent in the region; in one place. We can also add layers according to our economic priorities and projects. GIS WebTech is offering a solution that meets these needs for the region. We want to thank our municipalities for their partnership in loading vital data that will be useful for all economic development partners in the region.” [button link="https://digitalnovascotia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Press-Release-Guru-Valley-REN-March-14-2024-004.pdf" label="Read full press release"]