The Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission (COEDC) is proud to announce that it has won more 2022 Marketing Canada Awards than any other organization for the innovative OKGo sector marketing campaign.
Created through a unique partnership between the COEDC, Accelerate Okanagan and Tourism Kelowna, along with participation from various industry and post-secondary organizations, OKGo is attracting industry events, talent and business investment to the fastest-growing CMA in Canada by telling the stories of the innovative businesses, entrepreneurs and institutions driving growth in the Okanagan economy.
The annual Marketing Canada Awards are hosted by the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC), the country’s national association of economic development professionals. COEDC’s wins were in the following categories:
- Advertising Campaign: OKGo Campaign
- Single Publication – 5+ pages: OKGo Magazine Vol. 2
- Website: OK-Go.ca
- Cup Contender: OKGo Campaign
“The engaging multimedia stories shared through OKGo are sparking connection, excitement and sharing the value proposition of the region,” said Krista Mallory, COEDC Manager. “While each partner organization has a unique mandate and individual goals, OKGo tells a cohesive regional story that can be shared and leveraged through each partner’s networks and stakeholders, increasing the impact of our messaging.”
OKGo’s aligned print and digital assets showcase local companies, entrepreneurs and organizations across five targeted sectors: agriculture, viticulture, manufacturing, aerospace, and digital technology. These assets also help provincial and federal business development organizations promote the region’s competitive advantages to site selectors, event planners, investors and entrepreneurs.
“With our digital strategy focused on awareness, the Accelerate Okanagan team is excited about the traction the OK-Go.ca website has generated, especially since its launch took place during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Accelerate Okanagan CEO Brea Lake. “The development of the website has enhanced collaboration efforts among all regional partners as it aligns our individual strategic plans and priorities, all of which are jointly aimed at displaying our region’s value proposition.”
Since launching on July 5, 2021, OK-Go.ca has provided a compelling platform for regional industry innovation to be shared through engaging videos, social media kits, storytelling and imagery. So far the site has topped 18,640 views, 9,145 users, and 2,230 “contact us” page views, with visitors based in Canada, the United States and China being the most prolific.
“The OKGo campaign has been very successful at positioning Kelowna and the Central Okanagan as an ideal place to host a business conference or convention so delegates and planners can enjoy our beautiful destination and benefit from take advantage of the incredible talent here,” said Lisanne Ballantyne, President & CEO of Tourism Kelowna. “By showcasing the incredible stories of our local businesses and entrepreneurs, we are able to attract new business opportunities. This campaign, and the organizations that have partnered on it, are generating recognition and results that are increasing year-round economic impact for local businesses and strengthening the quality of life for those who work and live here, too.”
