As part of its rural development mandate, the Government of British Columbia is providing nearly $60,000 for six cultural, social and infrastructure projects on mid-Vancouver Island, Scott Fraser, MLA for Mid Island-Pacific Rim, and Ronna-Rae Leonard, MLA for Courtenay-Comox, announced today.

“These grants are helping First Nations and mid-Island communities develop their workforce capacity and economic potential, boosting tourism opportunities, and fostering community spirit and engagement,” said Fraser.

“We are proud to support the K’ómoks First Nation in their quest for energy independence through clean energy development,” said Leonard.

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.”

• Snaw-naw-as (Nanoose) First Nation is being awarded $10,000 to increase the workforce capacity of the Nation, including training, workshops, and one-on-one support and mentoring by management.
• Saa’men GP Ltd (Qualicum First Nation) is being awarded $10,000 to produce a five-year economic development strategic plan that builds on projects of interest that have been identified through previous community engagement.
• District of Ucluelet is being awarded $10,000 to develop a feasibility study that looks at potential uses and community partnership for the Amphitrite Point lands, including a basic budget and timelines.
• Cumberland Lake Wilderness Society is being awarded $7,550 for a program feasibility study to develop outdoor recreation programming that will increase visitation to the Cumberland Lake Park Campground.
• Hornby Island Farmland Trust Society is being awarded $10,000 to hire a project manager who will develop a strategic plan and feasibility study for full use of all eight acres of Hornby Island Community Garden Project land.
• K’omoks Economic Development Corporation is being awarded $10,000 to develop a business case for planning and installation of an independent renewable power microgrid on K’ómoks First Nation traditional territory.

The BC Rural Dividend program 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:

BC Rural Dividend program: www.gov.bc.ca/ruraldividend