The Community Futures Development Association of B.C. will receive $5.5 million to support businesses and enterprising not-for-profits impacted by natural disasters across the province
September 20, 2022 - Revelstoke, British Columbia - Pacific Economic Development Canada
Devastating wildfires and floods are causing immeasurable damage in countless communities across British Columbia, with the Fraser Valley, Interior and Northern regions being hardest hit. These communities are suffering from the impact.
In response, the Government of Canada is taking action to strengthen its emergency preparedness, and ensure affected residents and businesses have the resources they need to address climate-related challenges, build resiliency, and stay safe.
Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister for International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $5.5 million in funding through PacifiCan for the Community Futures Development Association of B.C. (CFBC) to implement a disaster recovery and economic adjustment initiative in British Columbia. This initiative will provide coaching and training services for businesses and enterprising not-for-profits in communities impacted by wildfires and floods. It will also deliver support to those affected by the mill and mine closures in northern B.C., providing tools to adapt to the evolving economy.
Key components of the initiative include access to program ambassadors offering economic recovery expertise and disaster planning, a collection of online workshops, customized training for specialized businesses, and peer mentoring.
This funding through PacifiCan will allow CFBC and its network to equip B.C. organizations in rural and remote communities with the skills and strategies to restore operations, mitigate impacts of future disasters, and compete effectively in the global marketplace. The disaster recovery initiative is expected to support an estimated 900 small businesses and help maintain 4,500 jobs.
In addition to this initiative, the Government of Canada is also developing the country's first National Adaptation Strategy. This will help Canada become more prepared and resilient for the impacts of climate change, including natural disasters like wildfires and floods.
Resources will be available through CFBC's Taking Care of Business
