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Giving Back to Community: NEDC’s Alex Masso Supports Local Cancer Warriors

Port Alberni, BC — At NEDC, we know that strong economies are built by strong communities, and strong communities are built by people who invest in others. Our Business Development Officer, Alex Masso, embodies that spirit every day.

Alex understands the entrepreneurial journey because he has lived it himself. Before joining the NEDC team, he received an NEDC business loan to help launch his own construction business. The financing allowed him to purchase equipment, create employment opportunities, and work alongside local partners, operators, and project managers from the Nation.

Today, Alex brings that same experience and passion to his role, helping Indigenous entrepreneurs turn their ideas into successful businesses.

"I like seeing other people's dreams coming true," says Alex. "My favorite part is seeing all their hard work coming together in the final stages."

Raised in Port Alberni, Alex credits the survivors, mentors, and family members in his life who taught him that success is about lifting others up and giving back whenever possible. Those values extend well beyond his work at NEDC.

Recently, Alex took part in the Head Shave 4 Cancer Fundraiser, organized by Tseshaht Chief Ken Watts. After growing his hair for more than six years, he donated over 20 inches of hair and joined a community effort that raised more than $6,000 to directly support local people battling cancer.

Inspired by family traditions and by the generosity of those who came before him, Alex wanted to give back to community members who have spent their lives helping others.

The event was featured by the Ha-Shilth-Sa Newspaper, highlighting the community's commitment to supporting local cancer warriors. Read the full story here: Tseshaht friends and family shave heads to support cancer warriors.

We are incredibly proud to have Alex as part of the NEDC team. His story is a reminder that economic development is about more than business—it's about people, family, culture, and community. The kindness, humility, and generosity he brings to his work and to the people around him inspire us all and reflect the values that guide NEDC every day.

Giving Back to Community: NEDC’s Alex Masso Supports Local Cancer Warriors

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