The team at Jupia Consultants has completed a number of broad-based economic assets mapping projects including the Halifax-Moncton Growth Corridor (2004), Bangor-Saint John Trade & Investment Corridor (2006), Central Nova Scotia Corridor (2008), Annapolis/Digby Economic Assets Map (2009), among others.
An economic assets map is the foundational element for a strategy to develop an industry sector (or sectors). It provides a comprehensive review of the assets that are part of the value proposition for the industry's development and uncovers any gaps or specific challenges. The information coming out of the asset map feeds not only strategy but also tactics such as marketing collateral, business case development, etc.
A typical economic assets map is based on the following activities:
• A full scan of local company capabilities
• Linkages with university-based and other related research and development capacity
• Major infrastructure assets (roads, airport, port, etc.)
• Provincial/federal programs designed to foster economic development
• The operating cost structure related to specific growth industries
• The labour market pipeline related to specific growth industries
• Other relevant information that comes out of a full review
Data sources accessed include:
• Full set of Statistics Canada CANSIM databases
• Canadian Business Patterns database (business establishments)
• Financial Post Canadian Markets
• ERI Geographic Reference Report
• KPMG Competitive Alternatives 2010
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
• U.S. Economic Census
• U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis