Economic Development Action Plan
North Cowichan is developing an Economic Development Action Plan that will guide economic and business direction over the next several years. This action plan will outline our opportunities and challenges, and prioritize goals to help us realize a more welcoming municipality for economic prosperity.
North Cowichan aspires to create a thriving local economy that offers high-quality and high-paying jobs, supports a diverse range of successful and sustainable businesses, provides a solid tax base to support community services and amenities, and makes it possible for all residents to enjoy a decent standard of living. Economic development is also critical to advancing the Municipality’s other goals related to sustainability, regeneration, and becoming more resilient. It is important that our economy reduces pressure on local environmental systems while improving equity, as outlined in our Official Community Plan.
Project Updates:
- February 23, 2024: Consultant presentation on interim analysis and workshop with Economic Development Committee.
- May 31, 2024: Report to Economic Development Committee on business survey results.
Related information:
- The Cowichan Valley Regional District is also updating their Economic Development Strategic Plan. Learn more at ecdevcowichan.com
-
Circular Economy Accelerator Program accepting applications
Share Circular Economy Accelerator Program accepting applications on Facebook Share Circular Economy Accelerator Program accepting applications on Twitter Share Circular Economy Accelerator Program accepting applications on Linkedin Email Circular Economy Accelerator Program accepting applications link
North Cowichan-based businesses can now submit applications to the Circular Economy Accelerator Program led by the Vancouver Island-based Synergy Foundation with support from the Island Coastal Economic Trust and the Vancouver Island & Coast Economic Developers Association.This program provides hands-on support to Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast-based businesses who seek to adopt circular economy principles, find operational efficiencies, reduce emissions, and develop innovative practices while increasing revenue and cutting operational costs.
Through the program, businesses will complete a site visit with a circular advisor and receive an opportunities assessment detailing opportunities to incorporate circular economy solutions and reduce waste, energy use, and emissions. They will also receive environmental metrics to help track their progress, attract investment, and build a reputation as a green leader.Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until all spots are full, with six spots available for North Cowichan-based businesses.This program previously ran as a pilot from 2022 to 2023, with Duncan Paving and West Coast Prefab participating in the initiative and identifying opportunities to increase re-use of materials while reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions.More information and applications can be submitted to:
