Supporting investment readiness, workforce development, and a healthy business community.

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The economic development efforts of Kings RSC are focused on ensuring that the region is well-positioned for growth, with an emphasis on attracting investment, supporting local businesses, and developing a skilled workforce. These efforts are guided by the objectives outlined in the strategic plan, which focus on creating a robust business environment and supporting the workforce needs of the region.

Understanding the Impact of U.S. Tariffs on New Brunswick

Kings RSC is working collaboratively with provincial partners to monitor and respond to the evolving trade relationship between Canada and the United States. We recognize the uncertainty that tariffs can create for local businesses and residents, and we are committed to ensuring our region has access to timely, accurate information.

The Province of New Brunswick maintains a centralized online resource with up-to-date information on tariffs, the provincial response, and available support programs. This tool is designed to help businesses and individuals navigate the current trade landscape and access assistance as the situation continues to evolve.

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Strategic Objectives

As outlined in Kings RSC’s strategic plan, the key objectives for economic development include:

  • Create a local committee and engage it in the development of a regional labour force growth action plan.
  • Actively promote the region’s assets in labour attraction events.
  • Identify priority sectors for development and create a development action plan with targets to attract development investments.
  • Facilitate the development of high-value incremental business support services.

In addition to these overarching objectives, Kings RSC has been actively working to establish a framework for collaboration and support across departments and with external partners. By aligning its efforts with the strategic priorities of workforce development, sector-specific investments, and business services, the region is laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth.

Key Initiatives

One of the most significant partnerships has been the strengthened collaboration with the Sussex & District Chamber of Commerce, which has led to several impactful initiatives. Kings RSC and the Chamber have worked together to deliver a wide variety of events aimed at workforce development and business networking. These events include job fairs, resume development workshops, and career expos that have provided local businesses with direct access to potential employees. Additional events like the Youth Vendor Market and Reality Check career event have introduced young people to career opportunities and entrepreneurial endeavors, creating pathways for future workforce participation.

The monthly lunch-and-learn sessions and coffee connection events have been designed to foster continuous dialogue between businesses and the RSC, helping to address any challenges while also offering valuable networking opportunities. Kings RSC has also helped communicate government resources to businesses through the Chamber’s established communications network, ensuring that business owners have timely access to support services.

Additionally, collaboration with Community Development has enabled volunteer recruitment for economic development events, strengthening the cross-departmental cooperation within Kings RSC.

In 2024, Kings RSC began the development of the Workforce Development Strategy, which is described below.

Workforce Development Strategy

The Kings Regional Service Commission (Kings RSC) has developed and adopted its first Workforce Development Strategy—an ambitious, collaborative plan to build a skilled, inclusive, and future-ready workforce across our region.

Why It Matters

Home to roughly 27,000 residents, Kings RSC includes the communities of Butternut Valley, Sussex, Valley Waters, and the Kings Rural District. While our region is rich in natural beauty and community spirit, we face rural workforce challenges—such as housing shortages, skills gaps, and talent retention.

To meet these challenges and unlock our potential, the strategy identifies four priority sectors:

  • Industrial Trades
  • Health
  • Tourism
  • Food Production.

Our Vision

A region where trust, cooperation, and collaboration build a skilled and sustainable workforce, driving growth in priority sectors.

Our Approach

The strategy is built on four action-oriented pillars:

  • Convene: Bring together employers, educators, job seekers, and service providers to strengthen collaboration and reduce duplication.
  • Advocate: Champion local needs and reduce barriers like housing, transportation, and certification.
  • Strengthen: Invest in inclusive training programs, support small businesses, and address sector-specific challenges.
  • Position: Promote Kings RSC as a top destination for talent, business, and quality of life.

What’s Next?

We’re already getting started—partnering with local chambers, schools, and employment services to deliver on-the-ground actions like workforce summits, job fairs, and small business support.

This strategy is not just a plan. It’s a call to action for everyone who lives and works in the Kings RSC region. Together, we’re building a vibrant, resilient economy—one opportunity at a time.