The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine has had its participation in Phase 3 of the pilot program for rural entrepreneur immigration confirmed.
The first phase of the Entrepreneur Immigration (El) Regional Pilot was launched in March 2019 to support balanced and strong economic development throughout the province. The regional pilot creates an innovative partnership between communities and the provincial government to attract, recruit, select and integrate foreign entrepreneurs to become new British Columbians. The program is designed for entrepreneurs willing to start a new business in smaller
communities and will run until March 31, 2024.
“This program provides the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine an ideal opportunity to attract investment from all over the world and enjoy the positive benefits of immigration to our communities,” says Walsham Tenshak, Economic
Development Officer for the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine. “The program provides smaller northern communities like ours a platform to attract investment that is usually directed towards larger cities.”
The program involves deciding what industries the Regional District would like to attract, providing interested applicants an overview of how great our communities are, and information on the amenities available as they consider moving here to settle with their families. Interested entrepreneurs through an exploratory visit to the community of interest can determine if they want to invest in our communities. The goal for us is to attract entrepreneurs that may never have considered our communities as an ideal investment location by marketing our investment advantages and high quality of life.
The process ensures that the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine will have ample opportunity to meet and discuss the proposed business and community benefits with the prospective investor. This will ensure that we attract investors who are the best fit for our communities. The Regional District will then endorse the proposed business to the Province by providing a referral letter.
“This initiative is being undertaken by the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine to achieve the goals set in our Economic Development Strategic Plan. Priorities from the strategy include attracting workers and residents to our region and
improving the retention and expansion of businesses within our communities. This program is a great opportunity to work towards achieving these goals. We are excited to receive newcomers to our communities that will invest here
providing jobs, goods, and services that our residents can enjoy.” —Phil Germuth, Board Chair for Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine.
To see the Regional District’s Community profile,
click here.
For more information, contact:
Walsham Tenshak, Economic Development Officer
[email protected]
250-392-848
Click here for the PDF version of this news release.