In 2008, East Coast Connected fulfilled one of its mandates by working to strengthen and build relationships with progressive and dynamic organizations in Atlantic Canada. ECC hosted events in Saint John, Halifax and Fredericton to raise awareness in the business community of how Atlantic business can benefit by working with ECC.

A fundamental tenant of ECC is partnership. By collaborating with ECC, Atlantic based business can capitalize on the ECC network to foster economic development and a develop stronger ties for their business with expat Atlantic Canadians.

Expats represent a valuable resource to the entire Atlantic region, its sustainability and long-term success. ECC aims to make engaging with this vital community that much easier by fostering a dialogue between Atlantic Canada and ECC’s network of more than 2000 people in the Greater Toronto Area.

ECC is also trying to initiate a shift in thought moving from “brain drain” to brain circulation. Brain circulation facilitates a free flow of capital, knowledge and creativity that contributes to sustainable prosperity in Eastern Canada.

This is only the beginning ECC's engagement with Atlantic Canadian leaders and future meetings are planned with organizations in Charlottetown and St. John’s in 2009.