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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
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| Backgrounder(s) & FactSheet(s): | Backgrounder |
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Western Economic Diversification Canada |
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FED/PROV FUNDING WILL SUPPORT COMMUNITY GROWTH |
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VICTORIA – Nine projects will receive more than $1.8 million
in combined funding from the federal and provincial governments through the
Western Economic Partnership Agreement (WEPA), supporting new growth in a
number of British Columbia communities.
The Honourable
Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of
State (Sport); and John Les, British Columbia Minister of Small Business
and Economic Development, announced the funding today.
“These projects are an investment in our people, our
communities and our future - all key priorities for the Government of Canada,”
said Owen. “From Aboriginal business skills training to cruise ship industry
development, these projects reflect our commitment to working in partnership to
create real opportunity for British Columbians and all Canadians.”
Among the projects being funded are: a project working
to connect 151 remote BC communities to the Internet; a study looking at the
potential for cruise ship business in Port Alberni; and a project enhancing
export awareness in northern and central B.C.
“This diverse group of projects will
each generate important economic and employment opportunities in various
communities throughout the province,” said Les. “Some of the projects being
funded today will develop tourism, while others will help B.C. communities get
digitally connected or promote economic development. But each and every one is
helping to maximize B.C.’s incredible potential.”
The Western Economic Partnership Agreement is a $50 million joint
federal/provincial program supporting economic development in British Columbia.
Western Economic Diversification Canada and the provincial Ministry of Small
Business and Economic Development jointly administer the program.
The agreement was announced on Dec. 4, 2003, and is
funded equally by the governments of Canada and British Columbia. The federal
portion of this funding was provided for in the March 2004 federal budget.
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contact: |
Communications Manager Western Economic Diversification Canada 604 666-1318 |
Communications Director Ministry of Small Business and Economic Development 250 356-9428 |
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Visit the Province's website at www.gov.bc.ca for online information and services. |
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