Under the BC Rural Dividend, the Province is providing $9,971 in a new project development grant to the Simpcw First Nation, MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson Terry Lake announced Monday.
The Simpcw Resources Limited Liability Partnership will use the funds to develop a feasibility study that will look at opportunities to create a prime contractor company to take advantage of the development of the Valemount Glacier Destination Resort.
This is one of 77 successful project development grants. More than $756,000 is being awarded to eligible communities, First Nations and non-profit organizations under the three-year, $75-million BC Rural Dividend.
“This study is intended to lead to new opportunities that will expand tourism in our region and make it a more attractive place to live and work,” said MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson Terry Lake, “Job development is a top priority and we want to support effective partnerships.”
MLA for Prince George-Valemount Shirley Bond commented, “This grant will be used to build capacity and ensure that as we work to move forward on this important resort project in Valemount, the benefits will be felt across the region. It is critical that we support rural communities as they look to grow and diversify their economies.”
One hundred eligible project development applications were received from around the province during the second application intake.
The BC Rural Dividend is designed to help eligible rural communities diversify and strengthen their economies and contribute to their overall wellness and sustainability. The program will contribute to the strength and sustainability of small rural communities. It is a key commitment from the 2015 Union of British Columbia Municipalities convention and the Province’s Balanced Budget 2016.
Funding of $25 million per year, over three years, is available in four categories:
* Community capacity building;
* Workforce development;
* Community and economic development; and
* Business-sector development.
The BC Rural Dividend is one of the ways the B.C. government is taking action to strengthen rural communities.
To support the needs of rural communities and grow local economies, the Province will be releasing a Rural Economic Development Strategy in the near future.
The strategy will help rural communities leverage their strengths and build on the significant contributions they have made to B.C.’s economy, creating new economic opportunities and enriching the unique lifestyle advantages rural B.C. has to offer.
Learn more about the Rural Dividend by going to: www.gov.bc.ca/ruraldividend