The British Columbia government is providing $276,000 to support four community projects in the Whistler-Squamish area, Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, announced today.

The funding is part of more than $10.1 million being awarded to 90 eligible local governments, First Nations and not-for-profit organizations under the BC Rural Dividend program.

The Spo7ez Cultural Centre is being awarded $100,000 to build an interpretive forest trail with an outdoor classroom on Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre land, with story boards telling the history of Spo7ez. Partners include Aboriginal Tourism Canada, the Resort Municipality of Whistler and Tourism Whistler.

The Whistler Centre for Sustainability is being awarded $49,497 for the Squamish Lil’wat St’at’imc Social Venture Challenge, which aims to support the development of new First Nations based enterprises and build community capacity. It is partnering with the Squamish Lil-wat Cultural Centre.

In Squamish:

• $116,500 is being awarded to the District of Squamish to implement service skills training and an open local-level data initiative, both part of the district’s economic development action plan. Partners include the Squamish Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Squamish.
• $10,000 is being awarded to the Squamish Dirt Bike Association to build about two kilometres of new connecting trails in the Lava Flow riding area, increasing rideable loops by about 12 kilometres.

The Rural Dividend program provides grants of up to $100,000 each for single applicants, and up to $500,000 for partnerships to help rural communities stabilize their economies and create long-term local employment.

The program is under review and it is being determined how best to distribute the remaining Rural Dividend funds, taking into account the community impacts of this year's wildfire season and other exceptional circumstances.

Rural development activities support government’s commitment to building a strong, sustainable and innovative economy that creates well-paying jobs for all British Columbians.

Quote:

Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development Doug Donaldson –

“This new funding will help rural communities grow their economies and create jobs–now and for the next generation.”

Quick Facts:

• Projects were assessed and approved based on the following criteria:
  • Rural communities most in need.
  • Improved community resiliency and economic strength.
  • Partnership building and enhanced shared prosperity.
  • Project feasibility and sustainability.
  • Economic impact on rural communities.
  • Attracting and retaining youth.Innovation in economic development.

Learn More:

Rural Dividend: www.gov.bc.ca/ruraldividend