The British Columbia government is providing $235,000 to support three community projects in Salmon Arm, announced Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development Doug Donaldson 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 Salmon Arm Economic Development Society is being awarded $100,000 for the Salmon Arm Innovation Centre, a two-year pilot project that will provide a co-working space, as well as programs to develop a youth workforce in the community and support, among other things, innovation and entrepreneurship in the community.

The Salmon Arm Museum & Heritage Association is getting $37,000 to plan phases 2 and 3 of the RJ Haney Heritage Village and Museum. The grant will fund a series of reports that support the development of a gate admission program, general planning for a new dining room and kitchen, and the market analysis, design and planning for the new Children’s Museum.

The Splatsin Development Corporation gets $98,000 for the Splatsin Employment & Training Services Initiative, a program to help youth and community members acquire the skills needed to gain employment, cope in the workplace, and learn about job and career options.

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 the Province is determining 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