Unama’ki – Cape Breton, N.S. – The Cape Breton Partnership is inviting the public to nominate individuals, businesses, and organizations who are making a lasting impact on the Island’s economy through the 2026 Economic Impact Awards. The awards will be presented during this year’s Investor Summit, presented by Nova Scotia Power, on October 22, 2026, at the Inverary Resort on Baddeck Bay.
For more than two decades, the Economic Impact Awards have celebrated the people and organizations helping strengthen Unama’ki – Cape Breton through leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment. The awards recognize those whose contributions are creating jobs, supporting communities, growing businesses, and helping build a stronger regional economy.
“The Economic Impact Awards are a cornerstone of the Investor Summit because they recognize the people and organizations driving growth and shaping the future of Unama’ki – Cape Breton,” said Brad Jacobs, Interim President and CEO of the Cape Breton Partnership. “Each year, we’re impressed by the calibre of our nominees, and we know there are many more stories of innovation, determination, and leadership that deserve to be recognized.”
The Cape Breton Partnership is encouraging people from across the Island to nominate businesses, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and organizations whose work has made a meaningful contribution to the economic growth and prosperity of Unama’ki – Cape Breton over the past year.
Nominees will be assessed on the following key criteria:
- Economic Impact: Demonstrated positive effect on the local economy through job creation, business growth, regional spending, export development, or expansion into new markets.
- Innovation: Evidence of creative approaches, new products or services, process improvements, or disruptive solutions that have advanced the nominee’s sector or enhanced regional competitiveness.
- Investment: Significant capital or strategic investment into the Unama’ki – Cape Breton region, including infrastructure, workforce development, community partnerships, or sustainability initiatives.
- Entrepreneurial Leadership: Strong leadership in navigating challenges, identifying opportunities, and driving results. This includes mentoring, collaboration, and inspiring others within the business or community ecosystem.
- Regional Commitment: A demonstrated dedication to the social, cultural, and economic well-being of Unama’ki – Cape Breton, with ongoing involvement in local initiatives, support for community organizations, or contributions to regional development goals.
Nominations will be accepted until 4 p.m. on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. For more information, or to submit a nomination for the 2026 Economic Impact Awards.
Unama’ki – Cape Breton Island – The Cape Breton Partnership is announcing leadership role changes designed to strengthen the organization’s focus on regional economic development and continue delivering strong support and services across Unama’ki – Cape Breton.
Effective June 1, 2026, Tyler Mattheis, current President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO), will transition into the role of Director of Economic Development. This strategic shift reflects the growing need for increased attention and dedicated leadership in advancing economic development initiatives, supporting businesses, attracting investment, and helping position the region for long-term growth and opportunity.
“Unama’ki – Cape Breton is at an important moment,” said Dan MacDonald, Chair of the Board of Directors. “The needs of our region right now require an even greater focus on economic support, partnership-building, and development opportunities. With decades of experience in economic development, Tyler Mattheis brings strong focus, relationships, and passion to this work, and we are excited to see that expertise concentrated directly on advancing economic growth across the region.”
At the same time, Brad Jacobs, who has been serving as Fractional Chief Operating Officer for the last seven months, will assume the role of Interim President & CEO, effective June 1. He will oversee the organization’s ongoing operations, programming, and strategic initiatives while ensuring continuity for members, partners, stakeholders, and clients.
“These changes position the organization to continue moving forward with strength and stability,” added Dan MacDonald “Our programs, services, and operations will continue as usual, and our team remains committed to delivering the same high level of support and service that our members and partners expect from the Cape Breton Partnership, which is driving $33.5 million in economic activity annually.”
The transition reflects an evolution in leadership structure rather than a change in organizational direction, with a continued commitment to collaboration, economic growth, workforce development, and regional advocacy.
The Cape Breton Partnership thanks its staff, Investors, partners, and stakeholders for their ongoing support and looks forward to continuing its work to help build a stronger future for the Island.