BELLEVILLE, ON, June 17, 2025 — The Board of Directors of Trenval Community Futures is proud to announce the appointment of Graham Copestake as its new Executive Director. Graham succeeds Amber Darling, who has served Trenval with distinction for over three decades, helping to shape and strengthen the organization’s pivotal role in economic development.

Graham brings over a decade of experience in both the private and non-profit sectors and his leadership experience includes roles in account management, strategic planning, financial oversight, and community-based program development. Most recently, Graham served as a Learning and Development Officer at Loyalist College, where he built dynamic partnerships with local agencies and developed workforce training strategies that directly supported regional needs. He was also Business Advisor with Hastings County and the creator and host of the workforce-focused podcast Average Professional.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Graham has served as a Board Director and Treasurer with the Community Development Council of Quinte and as Vice President of the Madoc & District Chamber of Commerce. His leadership style blends strong governance with a collaborative spirit.

Graham shared his excitement about joining the organization: “It’s an honour to step into this role and build on the strong foundation that Trenval has established. I look forward to working with the dedicated staff, board, and community partners to continue fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic resilience throughout the region.

“We are excited to welcome Graham into this role as we look to deepen our impact and broaden our reach across the Bay of Quinte region. I’m confident that with Graham at the helm, Trenval will continue to grow and adapt to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead,” said Jamie O’Shea, Chair of the Trenval Board of Directors.

As Executive Director, Graham will oversee Trenval’s lending portfolio, advisory services, community and strategic initiatives aimed at fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth throughout the Bay of Quinte. His appointment marks a new chapter for the organization as it builds on a strong foundation with fresh vision and leadership.

Trenval is one of 60 Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs) in Ontario and part of a national network of 267 CFDCs across Canada. CFDCs are community-based, not-for-profit organizations that support small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and community economic development through financing, advisory services, and strategic planning initiatives. Trenval is funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).