As part of its rural development mandate, the Government of British Columbia is providing $30,000 to Lax Kw’alaams Business Development, Metlakatla Development Corporation and the Central Coast Regional District, Jennifer Rice, Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Preparedness and MLA for North Coast, announced today.

“This funding will help bolster the economies in these remote communities and improve safety for citizens when it comes to emergency preparedness,” said Rice.

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 Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. “The selected projects reflect the strength of rural communities – people working together for the good of the community.”

Lax Kw’alaams Business Development is being awarded $10,000 to complete a feasibility plan and conduct a survey of the Lax Kw’alaams Coastal Trail which connects to the Metlakatla Wilderness Trail.

Metlakatla Development Corporation is being awarded $10,000 to develop a preliminary business case for cannabis production and becoming a licensed provider.

The Central Coast Regional District is being awarded $10,000 to conduct a community connectivity assessment and explore the benefits of improved digital connectivity, particularly with regard to emergency preparedness.

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