SVI Development Project: A Year in Review

The last year has been a busy one. Taking on the Project Director role in a more formal manner has allowed for more attention and effort to be put into the Development Project on a consistent basis.

Over the last year our primary focus has been on meticulously refining our business plan, delving into granular details to ensure the feasibility of the project long term. We are dedicated to minimizing risk and ensuring that our plans ensure the organization's well-being. Working closely with our business plan financial consultant, we are preparing a plan that tests various scenarios and presents the variables for each, so a logical and responsible path can be decided on. One that is robust and secure and that serves as a firm foundation for this ambitious endeavour.

We have formed a Development Advisory Committee, bringing together diverse professional experience and perspectives to assess, analyze, provide feedback and to act as a “sober second through” on our business plan findings. With all this work underway, we anticipate a clearer understanding of our potential pathways forward in the spring of 2024.

In the past year we have also taken the opportunity to engage extensively with our community through various outreach sessions. We have hosted presentations to our in-house tenant organizations, held a Stakeholder Engagement Group workshop, formed a Development Advisory Committee, interacted with hundreds at the Toronto Ukrainian Festival booth, invited Ukrainian Organizations to a Town Hall meeting and have obtained 250+ public surveys. This has all come together to lead to a deeper understanding of the community’s needs and desires for a new facility. We are grateful for the feedback received and the palpable energy and excitement surrounding the project. Your input is invaluable, and we invite you to continue reaching out to us.

The path to development is undeniably intricate and not perfectly linear. We are committed to taking the necessary time to ensure our plans make sense and are ultimately feasible.

Looking ahead, we aim to present a proposal to our members and friends in the near future. We believe in the importance of a Ukrainian community presence

in downtown Toronto, in a prominent, modern building where we can thrive. Our vision is to create a dynamic and relevant cultural, educational, and innovation center—one that not only meets current needs but anticipates the future trajectory of our community.

Your continued support is paramount to the success of this endeavor. Together, we can shape a vibrant future for our community. Stay tuned for more updates, and please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or thoughts to share.

Adam Shipowick, Project Director