As part of its rural development mandate, the Government of British Columbia is providing $10,000 each to the District of Sechelt and the Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve Society, Nicholas Simons, MLA for Powell River-Sunshine Coast, announced today.

“This is great news for our community,” said Simons. “These grants will go a long way toward generating tourism and economic opportunities, as well as supporting education and research on the Sunshine Coast.”

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, of 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.”

The District of Sechelt is being awarded $10,000 to create a study and business plan that will help generate opportunities for increased tourism and economic activity, including the retention of the commercial fishery at Porpoise Bay Government Wharf.

The Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve Society is being awarded $10,000 to create a business plan for the Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station, a marine and freshwater research and education facility to be constructed on the Sunshine Coast.

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