As part of its rural development mandate, the Government of British Columbia is providing a total of $20,000 for two community projects in northern B.C., Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development Minister Doug Donaldson announced today.

The funding is part of nearly $700,000 in project development grants being awarded to eligible local governments, First Nations and not-for-profit organizations under the BC Rural Dividend program. These $10,000 grants help rural communities develop projects to stabilize their economies and create long-term local employment.

“Congratulations to everyone involved,” said Donaldson. “The selected projects reflect the strength of rural communities – people working together for the good of the community.”

The Northeast Aboriginal Business Centre in Fort St. John is being awarded $10,000 to develop a marketing strategy to create national and international attention for the Indigenous Artists Market, and make it a tourist attraction in the Peace Region.

The Tsay Keh Dene Nation is being awarded $10,000 to develop a comprehensive business/project plan for the first phase of a sustainable biomass energy project that can displace diesel energy generation.  

The rural dividend encourages economic diversification, innovation, sustainability and collaboration, and recognizes the diverse needs of individual communities.

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