FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Province of British Columbia Approves Funding for Economic Diversification and Sustainable Tourism Projects on Quadra Island.

Province of British Columbia Approves Funding for Economic Diversification and Sustainable Tourism Projects on Quadra Island.

Quadra Island, BC – May 20, 2025 – The Discovery Islands Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the We Wai Kai Nation, Quadra Island Foundation and local stakeholders, is excited to announce that the Province of British Columbia has approved funding for a groundbreaking initiative aimed at building long-term economic resilience and sustainable growth for Quadra Island. The Rural Economic Development and Infrastructure Program (REDIP) have approved the funding.

The Economic Diversification and Sustainable Tourism Plans will support Quadra Island’s transition to a more diversified economy, reducing reliance on seasonal tourism and resource-based industries. The funding will allow for a comprehensive approach to strengthening the local economy through enhanced tourism offerings, workforce development, infrastructure improvement, and cultural preservation.

REDIP funding for capacity is available to small rural communities with populations of less than 2,500 outside of Metro Vancouver and the Capital Regional District, making Quadra Island an eligible recipient. As a rural and vibrant community, Quadra Island is well-positioned to benefit from these efforts, as this project will address critical challenges such as underemployment, seasonality, and the need for year-round economic activities.

Key components of the project include:

  • Economic Assessment and Stakeholder Engagement: A comprehensive analysis of Quadra Island’s economic strengths, challenges, and growth sectors. Stakeholder consultations will include residents, local businesses, and Indigenous groups, ensuring the plans reflect the community’s collective vision and priorities.
  • Sustainable Tourism Development: Focusing on eco-tourism and cultural heritage tourism, including First Nation-led cultural tourism, the project aims to create year-round tourism opportunities that protect the natural environment while fostering community engagement.
  • Workforce Development and Capacity Building: The initiative will provide targeted coaching, 4 Seasons of Reconciliation training, mentorship, and professional development to strengthen local businesses and reduce staff turnover, ensuring a stable and skilled workforce.
  • Off-Season Tourism Strategies: By expanding tourism offerings during the off-season, the project will increase economic stability and reduce the island’s dependency on peak-season visitors.

This project represents a significant step forward in enhancing Quadra Island’s economic sustainability and fostering a future that balances growth with environmental and cultural integrity. By emphasizing economic diversification, sustainable tourism, and community engagement, the project seeks to create lasting economic benefits for both current and future generations on the island.

The Economic Diversification Coordinator, funded by REDIP/ICET, will play a significant role in driving this initiative forward. Through collaboration with the Discovery Islands Chamber of Commerce, the We Wai Kai Nation, Quadra Island Foundation, and other stakeholders, the coordinator will help develop and implement the Economic Diversification and Sustainable Tourism Plans, ensuring the project’s success.

Project Team:

The initiative is being led by a dedicated and experienced project team.
• Dr. Farhad Moghimehfar, Project Consultant, brings expertise in sustainable tourism planning and community-based economic development.
• Jennifer Banks-Doll, Economic Diversification Coordinator, will lead the day-to-day implementation and community engagement efforts.

  • Jason Wilson, Director of Economic Development, We Wai Kai Nation will co-develop, review, and ensure cultural representation while collaboratively planning Indigenous-led implementation.
    • The Discovery Islands Chamber of Commerce Steering Committee includes President Carol Ann Terreberry, Treasurer Carol Perry, and Councillor Tina Oswald, who together provide strategic oversight and local leadership throughout the project.

“The We Wai Kai Nation is proud to be a partner in this initiative that not only supports sustainable economic development, but also recognizes and integrates Indigenous values, knowledge, history, and culture into the future of Quadra Island. This is an opportunity to create lasting benefits for our community and for generations to come, while sharing the richness of our heritage with visitors in a respectful and authentic way,” said Jason Wilson, Director of Economic Development, We Wai Kai Nation.

“This project is a powerful example of what’s possible when communities, Indigenous partners, and local organizations come together with a shared vision. I am proud to be part of this meaningful initiative that prioritizes sustainability, year-round livelihoods, and the unique character of Quadra Island,” said Dr. Farhad Moghimehfar, Project Consultant.

“We are incredibly grateful for the funding support from the Province of British Columbia,” said Carol Ann Terreberry, President of the Discovery Islands Chamber of Commerce. “This project will not only strengthen our local economy but will also celebrate and preserve the unique character of Quadra Island, supporting both our residents and visitors.”

This initiative aligns closely with the Area C Integrated Community Sustainability Plan, which emphasizes community engagement, economic resilience, and sustainable development. By addressing local needs and ensuring environmental responsibility, the project aims to build a future that is both economically prosperous and socially responsible.

The project officially launched on April 1, 2025, with completion set for March 31, 2027. It promises to be a transformative step in shaping the future of Quadra Island’s economy.

For more information about the project, upcoming community consultations, or how you can get involved, please contact the Discovery Islands Chamber of Commerce at admin@dicc.ca.

The Province of British Columbia, through the Rural Economic Development and Infrastructure Program (REDIP) and the Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICET), provides funding for these projects.

Contact:

Carol Ann Terreberry
Discovery Islands Chamber of Commerce
Email: admin@dicc.ca
Website: www.dicc.ca

About the Discovery Islands Chamber of Commerce:

The Discovery Islands Chamber of Commerce is committed to fostering a thriving local economy by supporting businesses, advocating for key issues, and promoting the region’s unique cultural and natural assets. Through various initiatives and partnerships, the Chamber strengthens community ties and champions sustainable economic growth in the Discovery Islands.

About the Quadra Island Foundation:

The Quadra Island Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to supporting the community through grants, partnerships, and collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing the area’s well-being and prosperity. The Foundation collaborates closely with local community organizations and stakeholders to strengthen community capacity and address emerging issues.