In June, 2002, the Guysborough County CBDC celebrated their 25th year of operating as a catalyst in economic development.

Our story began in 1975 when both the Federal and Provincial governments agreed to participate in a three-year pilot project called Community Employment Strategy. The objective was to develop and create employment opportunities for persons facing difficulties finding and maintaining employment.

In 1976, the need for capital reserve or resolving fund was identified that would fill in the gaps between entrepreneurs’ equity and funding.

In 1978, MGDIL was incorporated. MGCDIL (Mulgrave, Canso, Guysborough Development Incentives Limited) was set up as a small board of local citizens, which complemented other public programs and business activities. MGCDIL was intended to stimulate and assist local private employment and small business development through community partnership and participation.

In 1984, MGCDIL signed a contract with the Federal Government to become a LEAD Corporation. The Federal Government contributed to the corporation’s administrative expenses and MGCDIL used its own funds to invest in local businesses.

In September 1987, MGCDIL became a stand alone Business Development Corporation under the Community Futures Program, and in September 1988 the Corporation’s name was changed to the Guysborough County Business Development Centre Limited (GCCBDC). This was done both to better describe what the Corporation does and to reflect the expanded coverage area.

The Corporation now serves all of Guysborough County. Our mission is to assist in enhancing our community by expanding and creating skills, businesses, and jobs through technical and financial support. By focusing on small business and community development, the CBDC Guysborough County provides the highest quality services to its clients and communities.