Backgrounder: Minister Sajjan celebrates Economic Development Week and announces over $3.7 million for British Columbians

To mark Economic Development Week, the Honourable 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.

Projects announced today include:

Community Economic Development and Diversification program

Agrarians Foundation
$555,200
Funding will be used to deliver the Grow-A-Farmer program to support new farmers and their unique crops, livestock and operating environment. The project will include delivering a specialized agriculture entrepreneurship program, which includes on-farm internship, mentorship and ecosystem capacity building.

Work Wellness Institute
$968,000
Funding will be used to deliver the Inclusive Workforce Development Program, which will provide businesses with tools and best practices to create inclusive workplaces. With this funding, the Work Wellness Institute will design and maintain the program, hire trained facilitators or deliver courses throughout B.C., and market the program.

Clear Seas
$1,750,000
Funding will support the Indigenous Marine Career Advancement Program, which will provide 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.

Regional Innovation Ecosystems program

Synergy
$499,143
Funding will help businesses on Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast transition to a circular economy, where nothing is wasted and materials are repurposed as much as possible. With this funding, Synergy will train existing businesses in circular economy opportunities, support new business creation, and drive innovation and collaboration through regional hub development.

Related products

• News Release: Minister Sajjan celebrates Economic Development Week and announces over $3.7 million for British Columbians