Minister Robertson announces $2.5M investment for companies across B.C., highlighting PacifiCan's impact across the Southern Interior
As one of Canada's fastest-growing cities, Kelowna, a regional hub in B.C.'s interior, is powered by a diverse economy, a thriving tech sector, and a strong spirit of entrepreneurship.
PacifiCan has offices across the province, including Kelowna, supporting the entrepreneurs and innovators driving B.C.'s future. Since 2021, PacifiCan has invested over $47M in 156 projects across the Southern Interior, with over $28M in 65 projects specifically in Kelowna and nearby communities in the Thompson-Okanagan. These investments are fueling key sectors like tech, tourism, and manufacturing - creating well-paying jobs, and helping the region remain a hub of innovation and opportunity.
Today, the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan), announced an investment of $2.5M to help businesses in Kelowna and throughout B.C. find opportunities for growth in new markets and manage the impacts of tariffs.
Through this investment, $1.2 million will allow Community Futures British Columbia (CFBC) to continue delivering the Export Navigator program, which helps B.C. businesses become export-ready. Export Navigator pairs businesses with expert advisors in regions across the province who provide personalized guidance to help them achieve their export goals. To date, Export Navigator has helped more than 1,200 businesses begin their export journey, including 280 businesses in the Thompson-Okanagan alone. This initiative also received $1.2 million from the Province of B.C.
The remaining $1.3 million of PacifiCan investment will help CFBC and the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade (GVBOT) support B.C. businesses as they adjust to a changing economy and meet requirements of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) through two specialized initiatives:
- $900,000 for CFBC to launch the CUSMA Compliance Advisory Services Initiative (CCASI), delivered through Export Navigator. This initiative will provide expert advisory services and up to $5,000 to help businesses cover the costs of becoming CUSMA compliant.
- $380,500 for GVBOT to deliver a series of webinars and in-person workshops in six B.C. communities. These sessions will connect businesses with experts, including customs brokers, lawyers and other professionals, who will provide valuable guidance on CUSMA compliance.
As the Government of Canada works towards building one Canadian economy, PacifiCan will continue helping businesses across B.C. remove barriers and unlock new trade opportunities.
