New and small-scale farmers will be able to grow their businesses and help strengthen food security in their communities with the launch of the New Entrant Farm Business Accelerator Program.

New funding for value-added wood producers and manufacturing businesses in the Kootenays will protect workforces and support strong communities.

Value-added wood manufacturers are encouraged to join three new accelerator tables that will work to expand the sector in B.C.

To help strengthen wood-product manufacturers and further support local First Nations economies around B.C., the Province is supporting four manufacturers to upgrade their operations, sustain jobs in rural communities and plan for growth.

To help grow B.C.’s value-added wood sector, the Province will support the establishment of a new mass-timber production facility that will create more than 70 jobs in Williams Lake. 

Strong partnerships, wildfire protection and community involvement helped the Williams Lake Community Forest win the 2023 Robin Hood Memorial Award for excellence in community forestry.

Farmers, fishers, producers and processors in the Lower Mainland will have more opportunities to expand their product lines and market presence with the development of a new commercial food hub in Richmond.

Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, has issued the following statement in recognition of B.C. Economic Development Week: