COURTENAY – The Island Coastal Economic Trust will be providing the Gabriola Chamber of Commerce with up to $6000 to support the development a new economic development strategy.
“The project is being funded through the ICET Economic Development Readiness Program designed to help communities build a foundation for economic growth and investment,” said ICET Chair Phil Kent. “This project presents a great opportunity for Gabriola to develop the critical building blocks to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem that exists on the island.”
The project will involve several stakeholder sessions to gather input, review previous work and reports, and set goals for future direction. Defining and developing vision, mission, strategic priorities, governance models, and resources will be key activities.
“At the conclusion of this project, we’ll have a guiding document that is formed by Gabriola Islanders themselves,” said Gloria Hatfield, Chamber President. “When it comes to decision-making about a community’s economic future, local stakeholders need to be engaged to ensure a plan that helps the Gabriolan business community thrive while protecting the wonderful character and nature that is our island.”
Deliverables include a three-year strategic plan with priorities, action plans, and resource allocation to support economic development on Gabriola Island.
