Clearing the Confusion: What SCOR Really Does (And Doesn’t Do)

When people hear about an organization like SCOR EDC (South Central Ontario Region Economic Development Corporation), it’s easy to assume it functions like a small business support centre offering grants, funding, or one-on-one help to entrepreneurs.

But that’s actually a common misconception. SCOR is not a direct business support agency, and understanding what it does do is key to recognizing its value in shaping the long-term economic success of our region.

So, what is SCOR?

SCOR is a regional economic development organization that brings together the counties of Brant, Elgin, Middlesex, Norfolk, and Oxford. It was created to address shared economic challenges and opportunities that cross municipal boundaries, challenges no single community can solve on its own.

Instead of providing individual support to businesses, SCOR works at a strategic level to create regional conditions that benefit all. Think infrastructure development, regional transportation planning, or agriculture and food sector growth. These are long-term initiatives designed to build a stronger foundation for economic resilience.

Mandate vs. Misconceptions

It is important to clarify that SCOR does not offer direct services to individual businesses. That means no grants, no loans, and no one-on-one business consulting.

Those services are offered by organizations like Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs), small business centres, and regional innovation hubs, which are specifically designed to support entrepreneurs directly.

SCOR’s role is different but equally vital. As a regional connector and convener, SCOR focuses on high-level strategy, advocacy, and cross-county collaboration. Its goal is to build the kind of environment where businesses and communities across the region can succeed, not just today, but for years to come.

Why SCOR’s Role Matters

While SCOR may not provide front-line services, its work has a ripple effect that benefits the broader business community. Here are just a few examples:

Infrastructure Advocacy: SCOR champions projects that improve broadband access, roadways, and transportation networks. These upgrades are essential for both business development and quality of life in rural and urban areas alike.

Workforce Development: SCOR collaborates with educational institutions, employment services, and regional partners to attract, retain, and develop talent. A skilled and available workforce is one of the most important factors influencing business growth.

Agriculture and Food Sector Growth: SCOR plays a key role in supporting this vital regional sector by advancing value chain development, building partnerships, and helping position the region for investment and innovation.

Cross-Regional Collaboration: By uniting counties around shared goals, SCOR ensures that economic development efforts are aligned and that no one is working in isolation. This creates a more coordinated and powerful voice when advocating for provincial or federal support.

Who Should Reach Out to SCOR?

SCOR is a great first point of contact for:

• Municipal leaders looking to align with regional economic strategies

• Nonprofits and sector associations interested in collaborative projects

• Funders or government agencies seeking regional insight or partnership

If you are an individual business owner seeking support, SCOR will gladly connect you with the right resources in your community, such as your local CFDC or business innovation centre.

In Summary

SCOR’s role is not to provide direct financial assistance to individual businesses. Instead, its strength lies in building the conditions that allow businesses and communities across the region to thrive. Through strategic planning, advocacy, and cross-regional collaboration, SCOR helps shape a future-ready economy.

By understanding this distinction, we can better navigate the economic development landscape and ensure that every business or organization connects with the right partners, at the right time, for the right kind of support.