EMBRUN – Businesses across the region are being invited to step away from their day-to-day operations for an evening focused on one of the most important elements of long-term success in a small-business community: relationships.

The Township of Russell, working in partnership with the Prescott-Russell Development Corporation and the Prescott-Russell Chamber of Commerce, will host a regional business networking event June 9 aimed at strengthening connections among local entrepreneurs, business owners and economic development partners.

The event will run from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Township of Russell municipal offices, located at 717 Notre-Dame St. in Embrun (Gaston Patenaude Hall).

Organizers say the evening is designed to create opportunities for collaboration at a time when many rural and small-town businesses continue to rely heavily on local partnerships, referrals and community support.

In smaller business communities, success is often built as much on personal relationships and trust as it is on the quality of a product or service. Business owners frequently depend on word-of-mouth recommendations, partnerships with neighbouring companies and strong ties within the community to grow and remain competitive.

The networking event is intended to help foster those connections by bringing together businesses, entrepreneurs, community organizations and economic development representatives from across the Prescott-Russell region.

Participants will hear short presentations from several organizations involved in economic development and business support before taking part in a networking session focused on discussions, exchanging contacts and exploring possible partnerships or collaborative projects.

Organizers say part of the evening will also feature optional open-mic business pitches, giving entrepreneurs and business owners an opportunity to introduce themselves, promote services or share new ideas with potential partners and clients.

Events like these have become increasingly important for rural and regional economies where collaboration between businesses can help strengthen local supply chains, encourage investment and create opportunities that may not otherwise emerge through traditional advertising or formal meetings.

For newer entrepreneurs, networking sessions can also provide valuable access to experienced business leaders and organizations that can offer guidance, mentorship and support.

The Township of Russell said it hopes the event will contribute to building a stronger and more sustainable regional business ecosystem while encouraging continued collaboration throughout the community.

Businesses interested in attending are encouraged to register in advance through the online registration form (www.russell.ca/en/news/business-networking-event.aspx.) Questions about the event can be directed to the township’s economic development department at ecodev@russell.ca.