largest employers, particularly for the younger demographic. They have more than 130 employees on the roster, and Matt estimates that as many as 75% of them are under the age of 30. Now that they also manage the exhibition grounds, it offers more stability, with the seasons offsetting each other. “Our winter hockey season winds down at the RECC, and the outdoor entertainment season starts ramping up for the spring and summer at the exhibition grounds. It keeps our team fully active all year round.” On top of their full- and part-time employees, the nonprofit has a database of over 200 active volunteers, including their own board of directors. When asked what makes them stand out as event hosts, Matt notes that having a centralized location in the hub of Nova Scotia gives people easy access. The location of our venues certainly plays into our strategy. There are over 1.2M residents within a 90-minute driving radius from Truro – not to mention two international airports in Moncton and Halifax. “That’s one huge advantage in a very competitive industry. When we look to attract events and hosting opportunities, we are competing with other larger markets, sometimes within our own province, plus other provinces.” But location isn’t everything. But it’s not like the old adage, “If you build it, they will come,” Matt says. It’s important to have quality venues but at the core of our success is our team’s ability to build trusting relationships and partnerships with local businesses in the area and contacts with companies and organizations like Hockey Canada, concert promoters, booking agents, and gov’t officials. “I always ask our local govt partners and stakeholders to remember the long-term impacts and think about the lasting legacy of hosting these major events and how it inspires future generations to participate in sports and music. Along with the positive
“That's one huge advantage in a very competitive industry”
“Our winter hockey season winds down at the RECC, and the outdoor entertainment season starts ramping up for the spring and summer at the exhibition grounds. It keeps our team fully active all year round.”
78 SPOTLIGHT MAGAZINE ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 24 ISSUE 4
SPOTLIGHT MAGAZINE ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 24 ISSUE 4 79
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