ACADIA OF THE LANDS AND FOREST - In advance of the 2014 World Acadian Congress economic officials have developed an Internet based survey to get a better handle on business opportunities in the region, which encompasses northern Maine, northwestern New Brunswick and southeastern Quebec. The region was first developed in 2008 to compete against Quebec City and Lafayette, Louisiana to host the 2014 WAC.

   "The survey will be in French and English and the more input we receive on both sides of the border the more it will drive the scope of our work leading up to the event," said Francine Landry, WAC economic development director.

   Officials are asking business people to go online starting Monday to complete the survey, which is 20 questions and only takes about 10 minutes to complete.

   "This has never been done here before," said Landry. "To do a survey encompassing two countries, two provinces and one state, is impressive and should provide some positive and constructive results."

   Once business people log onto the survey website they are asked some general questions about their company - where it is located, how many employees, etc. There are also questions about exporting as well as trade barriers and opportunities.

   "We need to rely on one another to help strengthen our economy more so than in the past," said Alain Ouellette, planning and development division director at Northern Maine Development Commission. "For example a Fort Kent business may be getting a part from a California company and now may realize they can get that same item from across the border saving money and providing an economic benefit for the entire region. In our collective world, we call that successful asset based economic development"

  "The business community of Acadia of the Lands and Forests represents a vital and essential piece to the region's overall health and vitality," added Landry. "Examples of business success are evident throughout our region and that success is in large part due to the resourcefulness and innovation of business leaders."

   Officials are hoping to finish up the data collection by the end of the month and get the business community together, discuss the results and develop a clear set of objectives.

   Although Aroostook County events will be held in the St. John Valley, Ouellette said all northern Maine businesses are urged to complete the survey. As an added incentive, everyone who fills out a survey will be entered in a drawing for an iPad.

   The English survey can be found at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/cma2014exportsurvey. Email Landry, francine.landry@umoncton.ca, for a link to the French version or to answer any questions.

   The World Acadian Congress is a major celebration of Acadian culture and history held every five years since 1994. In 2014 from Aug. 8-24 more than 300 activities, including more than 100 family reunions, should attract up to 50,000 visitors to the region. The estimated economic impact is $55-million, but organizers want to make sure the ripple effects last for many years after the congress closes.  

   More information on the World Acadian Congress can be found online at www.cma2014.com.

   AUGUSTA - The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) is now accepting nominations for the 2013 Governor's Award for Business Excellence.

   Business excellence is epitomized by a balanced combination of manufacturing and service excellence and a steadfast commitment to employees, customers and the community.  This award is presented to for-profit companies that consistently demonstrate high levels of attentiveness and dedication in these areas.

   Companies that have been in business in Maine for five or more years may be nominated or may nominate themselves. DECD strongly encourages businesses of all sizes to apply.

   Completed nomination forms, available on DECD's website here, are due to the department by Friday, Feb. 15. Winners will be notified prior to an award ceremony to be scheduled in the spring of 2013.