Risk-takers, innovators and problem-solvers have been exploring their entrepreneurial ideas and developing their skills through UBC Okanagan’s entrepreneurship program since its inception in 2018. Like the startups it supports, the program is continually evolving, and ETSI-BC has been pleased to support e@UBC programs in the last couple years.
Story
Co-op Education at NVIT Supports Workforce Readiness in Rural Communities
The Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT), based in Merritt, is BC’s Indigenous public post-secondary institution. NVIT provides students in the Nicola Valley and throughout BC with education they might not otherwise be able to access. Co-op Education Coordinator, Anita Dumont, is focused on growing the program and changing the future for NVIT students, with support from ETSI-BC.
Updated Strategic Plan Positions the Slocan Valley for a Resilient and Sustainable Future
The increasing pace of growth and change in the Slocan Valley over the last several years inspired an update to the Slocan Valley Economic Development Partnership’s strategic plan. Residents, businesses, and other community stakeholders came together in this highly collaborative project to create a roadmap for long-term, sustainable growth, with funding support from ETSI-BC.
West Kootenays Businesses Find Labour Solutions through Rural & Northern Immigration Pilot
Businesses in the West Kootenays have been able to overcome labour market challenges through the Rural and Northern Immigration Program (RNIP) which brings skilled permanent residents to rural communities and matches them with employers with job vacancies. ETSI-BC supported an extension of the project, enabling businesses in many sectors to continue to grow and thrive.
Lands Feasibility Study Highlights Economic Opportunities at Kamloops Airport
From flight schools and private air services to hospitality, manufacturing and logistics companies, many types of businesses can benefit from being located near an airport while contributing to economic development in the region. Investment in airport infrastructure increases connections to international markets, attracts new businesses, and creates jobs.
Armstrong Grows Local Food Connections Through Cheese – and More
The community of Armstrong in the Spallumcheen Valley salutes its agriculture history and economy with events, festivals and celebrations throughout the year. One of those is the annual Cheese! It’s a Natural event which has been hosted by the Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce since 2013.
Southern Interior Economic Opportunities Showcased at Regional Summit
ETSI-BC was pleased to fund a project spearheaded by the Kelowna Chamber to bring together practitioners to produce the Southern Interior Regional Economic Summit (SIRES). The Summit took place in Kelowna Oct 23-25, 2022, with the theme of “Elevating our Potential Together”.
Salmon Arm Food Hub Adds Zest to Shuswap Economy
Food and beverage processing is among Canada’s fastest growing sectors and is making an impact in BC’s Shuswap region. In 2021, the Salmon Arm Economic Development Society launched the Zest Commercial Food Hub to support its food entrepreneurs with shared access to workspace, equipment, mentorship, and research. Zest has expanded quickly, and a second growth phase is underway, helping more producers and processors innovate and thrive.
Lower Columbia Initiatives Corporation Addresses Supply Chain Resiliency in the Kootenays
Supply chain issues are challenging companies around the world and the Kootenays’ Lower Columbia region is no exception. Working with economic development partners across the West Kootenay, the Lower Columbia Initiatives Corporation is leading a project to ensure a comeback from the economic slowdown and more resilient supply chains in the future.
Imagine Kootenay Takes Investment Attraction Strategy Canada-wide
If you are researching the Kootenays as a place to live and work, it won’t be long before you land on the Imagine Kootenay website. For nearly two decades this information portal has attracted businesses and workforce talent, mainly from within the region. With a new strategy targeting investment from across Canada, Imagine Kootenay is ramping up its business attraction strategy to ensure long-term growth and competitiveness.