Name: Alia Abbas, BREC

Position: Economic Development Officer

Organization: City of Toronto

Years In Economic Development: 9

Years As A Member of IEDC: 10

What is a podcast or book you recommend?

Podcast: The EcDev Network Podcast

What was the first IEDC event you attended?

I first attended the IEDC Introduction to Economic Development Course in 2015 which led me to attend the 2017 Annual IEDC Conference hosted by City of Toronto. 

Why did you choose to join IEDC?

I joined IEDC during my undergraduate studies as I wanted to immerse myself into the world of the economic development. IEDC allowed me to learn all about the latest trends, best-practices in economic development and most of all engage with the thought leaders in the field. 

How has being a member of IEDC benefitted you and/or your organization?

As a member of IEDC I have benefitted through the numerous professional development trainings being offered. This has allowed me to be updated on the different areas and aspects of economic development. I have benefited from the Foreign Direct Investment and Business Retention and Expansion courses. This knowledge has allowed me to share best practices and trends with my organization. With City of Toronto hosting the 2017 Annual IEDC Conference, allowed us to promote our vibrant city as a world leader in such areas as business, finance, technology, entertainment, and culture. We were able to showcase our cities hot spots such as Casa Loma, MaRS Discovery District, and CN Tower.  It is an opportunity to network with likeminded professionals in the field from all over the world.  

What IEDC event do you look forward to attending each year? Why?

The event I look most forward to attending to is the Annual Conference hosted each year. I enjoy attending the guided tours that occur in each city. It is an opportunity to explore the city but to see the efforts and impact of other economic developers and their projects. The guided tours are inspiring and allows one to see behind the scenes and all the hard work put into a project. 

Is there a project your organization is currently working on that you are excited about?

A project I am excited to be currently working on is the development projects occurring in Etobicoke North and Etobicoke Centre (as defined by our wards) with the expansion of the Casino Woodbine at Woodbine Racetrack and developments in and around the Toronto Airport area. These projects are bringing new and exciting conversations for industry and business growth opportunities. Another project our organization is working on is hosting a Business Forum which will bring together businesses in our community and surrounding communities. 

How has your organization adapted to support your community and/or clients during the pandemic?

Our organization adapted by supporting businesses in our community with their digital needs. City of Toronto launched the Digital Main Street programming which is an online platform and service for main street businesses that can help with the adoption of digital tools and/or technologies. Digital Main Street was created in partnership between the City of Toronto and TABIA and is supported by Founding Partners – Google, MasterCard, and Rogers – along with Product Partners – Microsoft and Shopify.

What is something you and/or your organization have accomplished this year that you are most proud of?

One achievement I am most proud of is being awarded the 2023 Economic Development 40 Under 40 Award, recognizing rising stars under 40 years old in the economic development industry. The awards program was hosted by Development Counsellors International (DCI) and Jorgenson Consulting at the IEDC Leadership Summit in Tucson, Arizona. This achievement made my organization proud as being the only Canadian listed in the Top 40. This achievement shows the dedication and my passion for the field of economic development. 

What are some ways you hope you and your organization can continue to support your community and/or clients?

Continuing to support our community and clients by establishing strong partnerships with local organizations. As the BR&E Unit we work closely with our Toronto Inc players which include our Toronto Board of Trade, foreign direct investment, and tourism office. This collaborative effort allows us to show the strong connection between BR&E and FDI. We give importance to creating a robust team that supports in attracting and expanding new businesses opportunity into our community. We all play a part in welcoming and securing new business opportunities. Our partnerships with Toronto Inc allow us to build trust and ensure a smooth transition for our business partners both locally and internationally.

Coffee or Tea?

Neither

Audio Book or Podcast?

Podcast

Favorite Movie?

My favorite movie is: A Series of Unfortunate Events. I love Jim Carrey's acting in it. 

Favorite Book?
Who's Your City? by Richard Florida

Night out or Night In?

Night out in the city exploring museum exhibits and restaurants. 

Dress-shoes or Sneakers?

Sneakers: Air Jordans

What is something you like to do in your free time?

As an animal lover, I love volunteering my time at the local farms by assisting them with their animals. My other free time hobbies are horseback riding, swimming, archery and cooking for my family.