WENDY MCCULLOCH
BRITISH COLUMBIA – 2025 marks the 40th anniversary of Community Futures, a nationwide non-profit organization with an impressive history, invaluable impact, and exciting plans for the future.
Community Futures British Columbia is a network of 34 community economic development offices that have been serving rural communities throughout the province since 1984. Their core mandate is to support local entrepreneurs, businesses, and community initiatives that strengthen regional economies and create more resilient, sustainable communities.
“Over the past 40 years, Community Futures has played a vital role in helping communities across BC to thrive and reach their full economic potential,” says Wendy McCulloch, Executive Director of Community Futures BC. “As we gear up to celebrate this major milestone, we’re excited to share our story and continue empowering entrepreneurs, businesses, and community leaders to drive positive change.”
The services provided by Community Futures span the full spectrum of economic development, from financing and business advisory to training, consulting, and specialized programs. Whether entrepreneurs are starting a new venture, growing an existing business, or leading a community initiative, CFBC’s team of experts can provide the resources, connections, and support that businesses need to succeed.
Some of the key ways Community Futures supports rural BC communities include:
– Providing loans and financing to entrepreneurs and small businesses that may not qualify for traditional bank financing
– Offering business planning, skills development, and advisory services to help turn ideas into viable enterprises
– Facilitating community economic development projects that attract investment, improve infrastructure, and build local resilience
– Connecting communities to government programs, funding sources, and other resources to advance their development goals
– Delivering specialized programs for underrepresented groups, including Indigenous entrepreneurs and persons with disabilities
As Community Futures British Columbia prepares to mark its 40th anniversary in 2024, the organization is reflecting on its rich history of impact and looking ahead to the next chapter. “Throughout the coming year, we’ll be sharing our story, celebrating our achievements, and outlining our vision for the future,” says McCulloch. “We’re excited to engage with communities across BC and continue empowering them to unleash their economic potential.”
To learn more about the services and support available through Community Futures, visit www.communityfutures.ca
Wendy McCulloch Executive Director of Community Futures BC
