ANNAPOLIS COUNTY, NS, SEPTEMBER 14, 2026
Municipality of the County of Annapolis and the Town of Annapolis Royal have partnered to welcome Joy O’Neill as their shared Economic Development Officer.
With nearly two decades of experience in economic development, municipal government, and entrepreneurship, Joy brings both professional expertise and a firsthand understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing local businesses. Her experience includes work with the Annapolis Digby Economic Development Agency, Colchester County, the Gwich’in Tribal Council, and the Government of the Northwest Territories. She also brings 11 years of lived experience as a business owner.
Joy’s role is designed to be a practical and accessible resource for businesses throughout Annapolis County and Annapolis Royal. Whether a business is looking for assistance with planning, accessing financing, making valuable connections, navigating challenges or identifying new opportunities, Joy will be available to listen, provide guidance and help connect business owners with the resources they need.
“Local businesses are the backbone of our communities, and my goal is to help them thrive,” said Joy. “I want to build strong relationships; understand the challenges
businesses are facing and help identify opportunities. Our communities have so many strengths and assets to build upon, and by working together across government, business, and community organizations, we can create opportunities and support continued economic growth, including in areas such as housing and employment.”
A key part of the role will be building strong, trusted relationships through honest communication and one-to-one conversations with local business owners and managers. Joy plans to listen closely to the needs of the business community, address issues where possible and connect businesses with helpful government, private and community programs and networks.
The shared Economic Development Officer position reflects the strong partnership between the County of Annapolis and the Town of Annapolis Royal. By working together, the two municipalities are creating a dedicated resource that can support businesses, identify shared priorities and help build a stronger foundation for long-term economic growth.
Businesses are encouraged to reach out, introduce themselves, and start a conversation. Joy can be reached at joneill@annapoliscounty.ca or (902) 955-0554.
Warden Diane Le Blanc, County of Annapolis – “Economic development is an important part of building healthy, sustainable communities. This partnership with the Town of Annapolis Royal allows us to work together to support our local businesses and create opportunities for growth. We are very pleased to welcome Joy to this role and look forward to seeing the relationships and connections she will build throughout our communities.”
Mayor Amery Boyer, Town of Annapolis Royal – “Economic development and economic development opportunities know no border. This is a wonderful opportunity to work with the Municipality of the County of Annapolis on projects of mutual interest and benefit. We believe that this inclusive partnership will benefit everyone in our region. We are looking forward to exciting things in our future!”
Media Contact:
Nadine McCormick, Public Relations Officer
County of Annapolis
nmccormick@annapoliscounty.ca
(902) 532-2907
Click here to download the media release: County of Annapolis and Town of Annapolis Royal Welcome Regional Economic Development Officer