Norfolk County campaign earns national marketing award

Norfolk County Economic Development has received the Strategic Marketing & Digital Storytelling Award from the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) for its Down a Norfolk County Road campaign. 

The national award recognizes innovative marketing initiatives that help communities tell their stories and support economic development goals. 

Created through a partnership between Norfolk County Economic Development, filmmaker Daryl Granger of Rose Le Studio and musician Chris Rait of The Treeline, Down a Norfolk County Road uses video, music and local storytelling to showcase the people, places and experiences that make Norfolk County unique. Funding support for the project was provided by Ontario's Southwest Regional Tourism Organization (RTO1). 

The campaign generated strong community engagement, receiving more than 62,000 Facebook views, 410 shares, and 2,300 YouTube views. It was also featured during the opening ceremonies at the Norfolk County Fair. 

The Economic Developers Association of Canada's annual awards program recognizes excellence in economic development initiatives and marketing from communities across the country. 

Quotes 

John Regan, Director, Economic Development, Norfolk County 

"This project demonstrates the power of authentic storytelling. By highlighting local people, businesses and experiences, we created something that resonates with residents while inspiring others to discover Norfolk County." 

Mayor Amy Martin, Mayor, Norfolk County 

"Norfolk County is a community with a story worth sharing. To have this work recognized with a national award among submissions from communities across the country is something we can all be proud of. Down a Norfolk County Road captures so much of what makes Norfolk County special: our people, our landscapes and those everyday experiences that make this place home." 

Chris Rait, The Treeline 

"For me, writing the song was a chance to take the time to stop and be grateful. It is like a daydream of sorts. It's funny that lyrically, none of the things I highlight are extravagant. It is a series of sentimental and tactile experiences. These are the things that I relate to and love about Norfolk." 

Joanne Wolnik, Executive Director, RTO1 

"Ontario's Southwest was proud to support this initiative. Down a Norfolk County Road is an excellent example of how authentic, community-driven storytelling can build local pride while strengthening destination awareness.” 

Daryl Granger, Rose Le Studio 

"Norfolk's so rich in beautiful landscapes, people, and stories that it’s hard not to create something spectacular. When you combine all those incredible visuals with a song that truly captures Norfolk, the story almost tells itself. I was honoured to help create this project." 

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