Announcing Our New Executive Director: Todd Copeland

Community Futures Western Ontario (CFWO) is proud to welcome Todd Copeland as its new Executive Director. Starting Monday, February 24, 2025, Todd will assume leadership of the organization, guiding the team that supports the network of Community Futures offices serving rural communities across Southwestern Ontario.

Todd brings a wealth of experience in economic development and small business support. Since November 2019, he has served as the General Manager of Community Futures Middlesex (CF Middlesex), following over two years as a Board Member and active contributor on the Executive and Loans Committees.

During his tenure at CF Middlesex, Todd led a successful rebranding and relocation initiative. He developed and implemented a strategic plan while also serving as a Board Member, Executive, and Chair of the Marketing Committee for Community Futures Western Ontario (CFWO). Additionally, he advocated for the Community Futures program at local, regional, provincial, and national levels.

With degrees in biology and business economics from the University of Waterloo, Todd has extensive private and public sector experience. He has worked across diverse industries, excelling as a champion of innovation, partnerships, and entrepreneurship. His career includes supporting start-ups and established businesses with research, development, and commercialization of new technologies, products, and services.

Todd’s unique expertise, combined with his lending experience through the Community Futures program, positions him to approach economic development with a comprehensive and forward-thinking perspective.

As Executive Director, Todd is committed to building strategic relationships with external stakeholders and funding partners. He plans to enhance internal training, resource sharing, and knowledge exchange within the CFWO network. Additionally, Todd aims to develop and launch new, regionally-focused programs while expanding access to funding through the Western Ontario Rural Capital Pool (WORC Pool) and the Southern Ontario Fund for Investment in Innovation (SOFII).

The CFWO Board and Executive are confident that Todd’s dedication, expertise, and leadership will drive meaningful growth and positive impact for the organization and the communities it serves.

A long-time resident of rural Middlesex County, Todd has been actively involved in his local community for over 20 years. His volunteer work includes 10 years on the Board and 7 years as President of a local minor hockey association. Outside of these commitments, Todd enjoys golfing and spending time outdoors at his family’s cottage in Northern Ontario.

Effective February 24, 2025, Todd can be reached at: Email todd@cfwo.ca