The Regional District of North Okanagan is investing in rural areas through a newly established Rural Economic Development Service. The new service is intended to create a more resilient and diverse region by supporting economic development in rural areas.
The funds will mainly be distributed as grants to external organizations that support the goal of economic development, with approximately 30% slated for economic development projects led by the RDNO. The first recipients of this grant are the Sovereign Lake Nordic Club, in order to assist with the 2020 National Cross Country Skiing Championships, and the Okanagan Film Commission.
“At the heart of a thriving community is a stable economic base that provides opportunities and allows residents to enjoy the beautiful part of the world we live in,” said Amanda Shatzko, RDNO Vice-Chair. “That’s why we are happy to have established this new service to support our rural residents and businesses in the electoral areas.”
All economic sectors will be considered for grants; however, additional points will be awarded to applications that carry out work in the fields of:
- Agriculture,
- Creative Industry;
- Tourism;
- Technology/Manufacturing, and;
- Forestry.
Other projects that are consistent with the Regional Agricultural Plan or the Regional Employment Lands Action Plan will also be awarded additional points.
How to Apply
The application period is now open, so organizations and groups are encouraged to review the fund criteria and eligibility requirements and submit a grant application by March 31, 2020.