Local governments, First Nations and not-for-profit organizations throughout British Columbia are receiving funding to promote economic diversification, clean-economy opportunities and infrastructure development, including 10 in the East Kootenay and area.

The Government of B.C announced May 21 it is spending $43 million from the third intake of the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP) toward more than 130 projects that will strengthen local economies, create an estimated 2,200 jobs and make a positive impact for people and communities across rural areas of the province.

Of that funding, $3,646,328 is coming to this region and Creston.

“We’re partnering with rural community leaders to invest in the future of their local economies,” said Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “By helping fund impactful projects throughout the province, we’re supporting people and helping their communities to flourish.”

Local organizations receiving funding, amount and funding designation:

• Community Futures East Kootenay – $516,728 – Innovate for Impact: Social Enterprise Development in Rural Communities.
• Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce – $129,098 – Buy Local Creston Valley Gift Card Program.
• District of Elkford – $98,984 – Building Elkford’s Economic Resiliency.
• Kimberley & District Chamber of Commerce -$82,000 – Investment Readiness and Attraction Strategy Project.
• Kootenay Employment Services – $460,000 – Filling the gaps: Kootenay-region Childcare Recruitment & Sector Development.
• Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association -$191,600 – Regional Film Sector Economic Development.
• The Elkford Chamber of Commerce – $100,000 – Fostering Economic Vitality in Elkford Through Innovation and Collaboration.
• The Sand Creek Community Club -$100,000 – South Country Community Economic Development Strategy.
• Town of Creston – $997,918 – ʔak̓uǂni.
• ʔaq̓am – $1,000,000  ʔaq̓am Business Park Road Infrastructure Development.

In its first three years, REDIP will see as much as $142 million invested in more than 450 projects across B.C. that will create an estimated 7,000 jobs in rural areas. The ministry anticipates that additional funding opportunities for rural economic-development projects will be available this year.

The next intake of REDIP is expected to open in July.

e-KNOW file photo

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