Announcing over $3.7m for British Columbians

The Government of Canada is making investments in British Columbia to create jobs, strengthen communities and build a skilled and inclusive workforce

Vancouver – British Columbia is home to industry-leading innovation, world-class destinations and thriving communities. The Government of Canada is supporting economic growth that will help BC businesses and communities thrive now and for years to come.

To mark Economic Development Week, Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $3.7 million in PacifiCan funding for four projects across British Columbia. This includes over $3.2 million for three projects funded through the Community Economic Development and Diversification program and $499,143 for one project through the Regional Innovation Ecosystems program.

The Government of Canada is committed to building prosperity and creating inclusive economic opportunities. Two of the projects announced today will directly support those opportunities across British Columbia. Clear Seas will receive over $1.7 million to support the Indigenous Marine Career Advancement Program, which provides training and job opportunities for Indigenous workers. The program aims to increase Indigenous participation in maritime-related industries through career advising, mentorship, job placement and hands-on experience. Similarly, the Work Wellness Institute will receive $968,000 to deliver the Inclusive Workforce Development Program, which will provide businesses across B.C. with tools and best practices to create inclusive workplaces.

For the full list of projects, please see backgrounder here. The investments announced this Economic Development Week are expected to benefit more than 600 businesses and help create more than 1,200 jobs.