County backs TWEPI & IWE merger
Two organizations in Windsor-Essex are getting the green light to merge.
Last week, Gordon Orr, who is the CEO of both Invest Windsor-Essex (IWE) and Tourism Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island (TWEPI) made a presentation on the success of the two and followed up with a request from Essex County Council to amalgamate the two.
He said that North Guide, a consulting firm, recently recommended the alignment which would result in a stronger organization, not a smaller one.
Invest Windsor-Essex and TWEPI would see a slow phase in over three years with a new brand coming by 2029.
Orr explained that Phase One (2026) would be Governance, Organizational Design and Legal Structure, which would include eliminating having two boards of directors and creating one new one. Shared Services and Operations would come in 2027-28 and finally and completing the merger in 2029 would be Shared Space and Brand.
“I appreciate the three phases because I think this is a big step for our organizations. It’s a good way to move forward,” said LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche, the current Chair of TWEPI.
Orr noted during his presentation that this would result in a stronger governance structure.
“Their (North Guide) recommendations are evidence based and are designed to strengthen regional service delivery while building on the success both organizations have already.”
As part of his presentation, he outlined some of the successes of both organizations.
Invest Windsor-Essex, he said saw $382 million in new investment, facilitated 961 new jobs, and 86 business startups.
“Economic development is more than just facilitating new investment. It’s about supporting existing businesses, fostering entrepreneurship and positioning Windsor-Essex for future opportunities,” said Orr.
Orr said that it is about both national and international possibilities and that the region’s economic capabilities expand past the automotive industry.
TWEPI, he said recorded that the region had 5.16 million visitors in 2025, who spent $816 million. The organization currently boasts 292 partners.
“Tourism continues to be a critical component of the Windsor-Essex economy and quality of life,” said Orr.
Essex County contributed $782,700 towards tourism in the 2026 budget. An earlier intent to reduce Windsor-Essex funding by 15 percent, was re-considered and that group got $1,122,000 from the county.
This summer, the City of Windsor also agreed to the merger.
County backs TWEPI & IWE merger
By Fred Groves
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