As part of its rural development mandate, the Government of British Columbia is providing a total of $40,000 for four projects in Squamish, Pemberton and Lillooet, 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 grants, up to $10,000 each, 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 Lillooet Rowing Club is being awarded $10,000 to create a development plan for a boat house to store its equipment, as well as a business plan so it can apply for future grants to build the boat house and provide space for community boat owners, events and parkland. 
• The Pemberton and District Chamber of Commerce is being awarded $10,000 for the second phase of an economic development project, also funded through the BC Rural Dividend. It will complete a portal for data collection and begin community engagement to identify needs and determine next steps.  
• The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District is being awarded $20,000 for two projects involving local First Nations:
  • Starting a collaborative process with Tsal’alh First Nation to develop Seton Portage Park in a way that preserves its cultural values while enhancing wildlife habitat and improving recreation, leisure and education opportunities for residents and visitors.
  • Ensuring that the Intergovernmental Relations Working Group, which was started with BC Rural Dividend funding, continues through 2018 and begins to implement a work plan aimed at improving communication and collaboration in the northern St'át'imc Territory.

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