Brian Coburn Associate Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing announced the launch of the Rural Economic Development Data and Intelligence (REDDI) web site designed to provide a "one window" Internet access to information, community economic tools and comprehensive socio-economic data.

The Rural Economic Development Data and Intelligence (REDDI) Web site will help take the guesswork out of economic development. It provides practical tools to help rural economic development professionals and community leaders identify local solutions to local challenges. The new REDDI Web Site provides information in a format that communities can use to assess competitive advantage and identify local strengths and weaknesses. It contains data on current conditions and trends affecting local economies. It outlines ways to revitalize community main streets, retain and expand business, and attract investment.

The Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing is committed to assist rural stakeholders in overcoming economic challenges and opening doors to economic opportunity. REDDI fits with the government’s aim to help bring broadband infrastructure to communities in rural Ontario that will facilitate their participation in the new economy.

REDDI can be found at www.reddi.gov.on.ca. It is one of several rural development initiatives in Ontario. It will support the Ontario Small Town and Rural Development – Rural Economic Development (OSTAR-RED); and related programs such as the Business Retention and Expansion (BR +E) program and the Resource Jump Team. It will also complement Smart Growth planning initiatives, especially by the Eastern and Western Ontario panels.