First Nations, local governments and not-for-profit organizations are reminded to get their applications for the fifth intake of the BC Rural Dividend program submitted before the July 31, 2018, deadline.

Single applicants can apply for up to $100,000 for community-driven projects and must contribute at least 20% of the total project cost. Partnerships, involving an eligible applicant and at least one eligible partner, can apply for up to $500,000 and must contribute 40% of the total project cost.

A project development funding stream will provide up to $10,000 to help communities build business cases and feasibility assessments that are needed to develop strong projects and support the development of future project applications.

This is the only application window for 2018-19. Projects will be 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

Rural communities facing significant economic hardships, such as the loss of a main employer or a natural disaster, may be eligible to access funding under the BC Rural Dividend Program’s special circumstances allowance.

The fifth intake program guide and detailed instructions on how to apply are available on the BC Rural Dividend website: www.gov.bc.ca/ruraldividend