Pre-EDCO Planning Seminar

Pre-EDCO seminar
Date Location Tuition Value
February 2, 2026
EDCO Pre-conference Seminar, Toronto, ON $109-149 3

Registration Forthcoming

Start Time  1:00 pm eastern
End Time 4:30 pm eastern

This session will be led by Ken Scholtens, CEO of Scholtens Business Consulting, and a range of special guest presenters from across Ontario. From planning to permitting to approvals, the development process is becoming increasingly complex and time-consuming, and despite broader economic challenges, many investors and developers are struggling to get their projects approved. This session will explore:

  • Many Investors and Developers are struggling to get their projects approved, while politicians point to staff as "gatekeepers"
  • Specific actions that economic developers can take to speed things up – and the policy changes that support those actions
  • How economic developers can work to be investment ready
  • Tips and tricks from real world case studies

This seminar will precede the Economic Developers Council of Ontario conference to help maximize the professional benefits from limited travel budgets. Please note, registration to the conference is separate, and not required to participate in the seminar.


Presenters

Ken Scholtens

Photo of Ken Scholtens

CEO, Scholtens Business Consulting

A veteran Economic Developer, Ken has a deep understanding of the challenges companies and developers face when working with municipal, regional, and provincial governments. With expertise in navigating building permits, planning applications, and grants or incentives, he serves as a strong advocate to help businesses successfully meet government regulations and requirements. Committed to supporting companies that invest in their communities, create jobs, and drive economic growth, he works to identify challenges, deliver innovative solutions, and enable business success throughout Niagara. Ken has contributed to over 60 economic development projects across Canada during his tenure with one of the country’s largest specialist consultancies. 

Registration Fees

  EDAC members in good standing* Non-EDAC members
Early bird $109 + HST $129 + HST

After January 19, 2026 

$129 + HST $149 + HST

*EDAC member discount is for those who have paid their annual membership fee. Should your EDAC membership not be paid in full by the date of course/seminar registration, you will be responsible for paying the full (non-member) registration fee