Nancy Robbins
Meet our team
Nancy Robbins, Economic Development Officer (Tourism), Clarenville, N.L.
Nancy Robbins has been with ACOA for 20 years, most of that time as an economic development officer for the Eastern Region, based in Clarenville, N.L. “It is a very fulfilling role – on the front line, meeting ACOA clients from all areas of our work: new entrepreneurs, experienced business owners and managers, community leaders, and volunteers from the non-profit sector.”
Nancy’s on-the-ground role involves developing and maintaining relationships; listening to ideas and challenges; and creatively working with clients to find solutions using ACOA programs, or connecting them with others who can help. “The tourism sector is one of the most important sectors in my region.
My role with ACOA has provided me with a wonderful opportunity to work with and learn from some of the most innovative and experienced operators in the province. This has enhanced my knowledge of the sector, but it has also instilled a passion for it.”
Among the projects Nancy has been involved with are the creation of destination development strategies; helping support and grow key attractions and experiences like Discovery UNESCO Geopark, Hike Discovery, and Rising Tide Theatre; assisting with the establishment and growth of one of the region’s top culinary festivals: Roots, Rants and Roars; and working with numerous businesses, including accommodations operators, boat-tour operators, microbreweries and other visitor experiences.
“We are working with companies at all stages of their life cycle, assisting them and supporting them as they grow, and working with them through whatever comes their way,” says Nancy. “We also support communities and regions, assisting them through some of their most difficult times and some of their greatest moments of celebration.”
One tangible example of the difference ACOA has made to economic development in Newfoundland is its work on the Bonavista Region, says Nancy. The region’s economy was devastated when the cod fishery closed in 1992, and as changes to the fishery continued in subsequent years, the area continued to suffer, resulting in thousands of job losses and numerous business closures. “While stakeholders in the region knew the fishery would always be an important part of the economy, they knew diversification was critical. Over the years, we have worked with numerous partners to help the region build a vibrant tourism sector. Now this area is recognized as one of the top tourism destinations in the province.”
“As well,” Nancy notes, “these investments not only created an attractive place for visitors but also increased the area’s attractiveness for new residents as a place to lay down roots and launch new businesses, as evidenced by the unprecedented business start-ups we are seeing in the region.”