Business Development

Zone 9, one of 20 economic zones in the province, benefits from the economic development initiatives of the Long Range Regional Economic Development Board, with a mandate to coordinate economic development initiatives in the area. Zone 9, highlighted on the map, is located in southwest Newfoundland, and includes the communities of Gallants in the north to Highlands in the south, the Port au Port Peninsula, and the south coast communities from François to Burgeo. The Town of Stephenville is the main “services center” for Zone 9 with an estimated population of 7,109. As such, it is the centre for commerce, business and retail consumption in this area of the province.

There are over 550 businesses that serve approximately 21,000 people in the Zone, with the highest business representation being held by the following sectors: retail; education; health care and social assistance; accommodations; and construction. Stephenville and the surrounding area have access to transportation infrastructure by air, sea and road.

These linkages include:
  • Stephenville Airport;
  • The Port of Stephenville (Port Harmon Authority Ltd.);
  • The Trans Canada Highway (via Whites Road and Stephenville Crossing); and
  • Marine Atlantic connection to North Sydney, Nova Scotia via Port aux Basques.
Collectively, this enables relatively easy connection to Stephenville and surrounding areas to the benefit of local industry.

The support agencies for business development are located at the WE Cormack Development Centre, 35 Carolina Avenue, Stephenville. To learn more about the agencies browse the links below to gain information, or feel free to call or stop in to the W.E. Cormack Center and visit a representative.


Business Development Related Links

Town of Stephenville
  • Includes information on town tax rates, the economy, air and sea ports, immigration, business permits, and much more. Also includes a business directory.
    Live Work Grow
  • An award winning website that portrays aspects of life in Stephenville, its working environment and growing opportunities. Also lists services that are available in the community.
    Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
  • A federal government department responsible for stimulating business activity in the Atlantic Provinces. Provides answers to any question you may have about starting a business in the Maritimes.
    Community Business Development Corporations
  • A group of not-for-profit organizations that work closely with governments and other agencies to help support small business in local communities across Canada.
    Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
  • Government department dedicated to supporting small and medium sized business ventures, contains information on starting or growing a business, as well as other information needed when considering starting a business.
    Department of Human Resources, Labour and Employment
  • Contains information on obtaining jobs and careers, special support programs, and links to a community partner’s page.
    Ulnooweg Development Group Inc.
  • Aboriginal business website, lists current projects, and walks through ways to obtain business loans and resources.
    Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs
  • Describes how to become a member, their events, awards and business services.







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