Applications for funding in the fourth intake of the BC Rural Dividend program will be accepted Nov. 15 to Dec. 15, 2017, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development Doug Donaldson announced today.

“I encourage local governments, not-for-profit organizations and First Nations to get their applications submitted,” said Donaldson. “We’re committed to action that will strengthen rural economies and provide jobs in rural communities.”

Single applicants can apply for up to $100,000 for community-driven projects and must contribute at least 20% of the total project cost. Partnerships, involving more than one eligible applicant, can apply for up to $500,000 and must contribute 40% of the total project cost.

A project-development funding stream will provide up to $10,000 to help communities with limited capacity build the business cases and feasibility assessments needed to develop strong projects and support the development of future project applications.

Under the BC Rural Dividend program’s special circumstances allowance, which is used to help rural communities facing economic hardship, funding will also support those communities hard hit by wildfires in 2017.

Projects will be 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

The fourth intake program guide and detailed instructions on how to apply are available on the BC Rural Dividend website: www.gov.bc.ca/ruraldividend  
Fourth intake results will be announced before March 31, 2018.