Anchored by world-class natural resources and a strong history of industrial innovation, Kootenay innovators are commercializing next-generation technologies and building the foundations of a cleaner, more competitive economy. The Government of Canada is backing that ambition by helping local businesses grow, compete globally, and build a stronger Canada.
Today, the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan), announced an investment of over $3.6 million for two Kootenay-based organizations to advance sustainable technologies and strengthen manufacturing in the region.
As part of this investment, the Selkirk Technology Access Centre (STAC) is receiving an investment of over $1.6 million to expand its advanced manufacturing services and build new capacity in particle accelerator and ion source research - the same technology used in hospitals to detect cancer and other serious illnesses. These upgrades will give local businesses access to cutting-edge tools, expert mentorship, and industry networks to help them grow and compete. Drawing on the region's strengths in core industries like clean energy and natural resources, STAC will help businesses modernize, develop new products, and become the job-creating companies that smaller communities depend on for long-term economic growth.
PacifiCan is also investing over $1.9 million in KC Recycling to expand the capacity of its battery processing facility by 40 per cent. With this investment, KC Recycling will upgrade its facility with more efficient equipment for battery processing, material separation, and plastics recycling equipment. By recovering greater volumes of lead, plastic, and acid for reuse in battery manufacturing and lead smelting, KC Recycling is turning industrial waste into economic opportunity - and supporting a more sustainable future for the Kootenays.
Together, these investments are helping Kootenay innovators create good jobs, grow their businesses, and build a stronger, more resilient economy for British Columbians and all Canadians.
