THUNDER BAY -- Like many entrepreneurs starting out, one day Bruce Firestone looked around his community to figure out what it lacked compared to other cities.
Four years, $50 million and some legal battles with the province later Ottawa had its first NHL franchise in more than 50 years.
Firestone, founder of the Ottawa Senators, also had some help from a willing city council. And while there likely won't be any entrepreneurs in Northwestern Ontario who can bring an NHL team to the North, small towns and cities offering solutions rather than raising concerns when someone has an idea can do wonders for economic development.
"The most important thing is a proactive council and a proactive mayor," Firestone said after making a keynote speech during the first day of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Conference at the Valhalla Inn.
Rather than trying to attract companies from outside the city, province or even country to come to town, municipalities need to focus on homegrown talent.
"If you just are looking at attracting people from away... I think that puts you at a disadvantage over owners who work in these communities, live in these communities. They won't cut and run when times change," he said.
From encourage local business to get active on social media to not looking at a city plan as gospel but rather how it can change to suit a business idea, there are many ways a city can help.
NOMA president and Kenora mayor David Canfield said the speech was inspiring for regional leaders especially as Northwestern Ontario's economy is beginning to see an upswing.
Small towns are full of skepticism when someone has a new idea, something he'd like to see NOMA help change that mentality and encourage entrepreneurs.
One person's seemingly dumb idea can pay off with the right encouragement and help from a municipality.
"There have been a lot of dumb ideas that have made people filthy rich," he said.
The conference continues Friday.
