The Shorefast Institute for Place-Based Economies

Uncovering and harnessing the Power of Place

A national initiative to catalyse the holistic development of local economies, big and small. 

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Local Development, National Prosperity

The Shorefast Institute for Place-Based Economies is a new national initiative dedicated to place-based economic development. The Institute will catalyse communities, governments, and markets to connect and build national economic strength. By creating new models and networks to share insights and best practices, to activate entrepreneurship, and develop coordinated financial strategies and tools, we can build a more prosperous and resilient Canada. 

How Do We Work?

The Shorefast Institute offers three areas of programming for organizations interested in new models of place-based economic development.  

Beyond Buy Local: Making every purchase an investment in your local economy

Projects & Toolsets

Learn more about our projects and toolsets and sign up to receive future updates. 

Community Business Hub

The PLACE Framework

Community Economies Pilot

“Prevailing economic models are no longer sufficient. We need a bold approach that builds upon the unique strengths within the places we live to help transform local potential into national prosperity.”

-Zita Cobb, Founder & CEO, Shorefast

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