GABRIOLA ISLAND – New Democrat MLA Doug Routley says that people on Gabriola Island will benefit from increased job opportunities, thanks to $100,000 in provincial funding for an economic development project.

“Islanders are resilient, innovative and full of ideas on how to develop the local economy,” said Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan. “I’m pleased our government is providing this funding to help the business community build capacity and develop strategies that will create opportunities for people and families.”

MLA Routley says that the $100,000 is being awarded to the Gabriola Island Chamber of Commerce and will assist with their Next Steps: Building Upon Our Foundations project. This initiative will build on the foundation of the Community Economic Development base with value and place-based collaborative projects, building capacity and mechanisms to spark ideas and propel the island towards resiliency.

This local investment is part of nearly $14 million in grants for over 150 projects that will support economic development and recreational opportunities for British Columbians who live in rural communities throughout the province.

Funding recipients were identified from applications received during the 6th intake of the Rural Dividend Program in summer 2019. Priority was given to economic development projects that have a focus and potential for job creation.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/22421