The Province of BC has announced a new Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program to support BC communities. UBCM President Jen Ford indicated her support for the program noting that “UBCM has long advocated for additional funding assistance to help local governments transition and diversify their local economies.”
A resolution endorsed at the 2019 UBCM Convention called on the provincial government to identify new funding to deliver supports to communities impacted by mill closures following the termination of the Rural Dividend Fund.
The $33 million in funding will be allocated to three streams: economic diversification; economic capacity and forest impact transition. More information on the program including details on how to apply can be found on the provincial website. The deadline for submissions is January 4, 2023, with a second intake slated to open later in 2023.