As part of its rural development mandate, the British Columbia government is providing $148,000 to Skeetchestn Natural Resources LLP and the Village of Cache Creek, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development Doug Donaldson 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.

Skeetchestn Natural Resources LLP is being awarded $100,000 to support the development of ready-to-assemble building packages that include post/beam and structurally insulated panels. This award builds on the $10,000 they received in the program’s first intake for a feasibility study on the use of structurally insulated panels in First Nations housing units.

Following up on the study, Skeetchestn Natural Resources LLP will purchase the necessary equipment for mass production of housing components using other funding sources. Additionally, the project will provide training for youth to install, test and operate the equipment. The kits will be marketed locally as well as shipped to other First Nations communities for assembly as housing units.

The Village of Cache Creek is being awarded $48,000 under the special circumstances provision because of the impacts of this summer’s wildfires to support upgrades to the Cache Creek community hall. The end goal of the project is to brand the facility as a state-of-the-art venue, which will encourage organizations in Cache Creek and the surrounding communities to host their functions in Cache Creek, rather than travelling longer distances to Kamloops.

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.

Quotes:

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