The B.C. government has distributed almost $19 million in new grants to support rural communities in the fifth intake of the Rural Dividend, with $960,530 of that money coming to the East Kootenay.

“This funding supports the diverse needs of small communities throughout the province and the people who live in them,” said Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. “Our government is getting results for people in small cities and towns in every region, creating jobs and enhancing everyday services and amenities for families around the province.”

Funding is awarded to 153 local governments, First Nations and not-for-profit organizations around the province for single (up to $100,000) and partnership (up to $500,000) projects.

Locally, successful project grants range from the Community Connections Society of Southeast BC to a regional branding initiative for the Ktunaxa Nation Council Society in Cranbrook. The society aims to market the region and develop a product that includes Ktunaxa history.

East Kootenay municipalities and organizations receiving funds (including amount):

Village of Canal Flats ($70,000);

Community Connections Society of Southeast BC – Cranbrook ($100,000);

Community Futures East Kootenay ($288,206);

Fairmont Community Association ($10,000);

Fernie Chamber of Commerce ($77,430);

Corporation of the City of Fernie ($47,000);

Ktunaxa Nation Council Society ($86,025);

Regional District of East Kootenay ($281,869).

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.

The Rural Dividend encourages economic diversification through community capacity building, workforce development, community and economic development, and business sector development.

The B.C. government has committed to extending the $25-million-per-year Rural Dividend to 2021-22.

Lead image: The Ground Floor Co-working Space opened April 5, 2018, with an open house and grand opening ceremony. Community Futures East Kootenay spearheaded the project, which features 18 offices – all different businesses and organizations, with $100,000 in Rural Dividend funding help. e-KNOW file photo

e-KNOW

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