– Sonja Nagel is Executive Director of the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at manager@duncancc.bc.ca or 250.748.1111.
COWICHAN VALLEY – Two Cowichan Valley organizations recently received funding to support economic development strategies: Economic Development Cowichan and the Downtown Duncan Business Improvement Society.
Economic Development Cowichan received $10,000 from Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICET) to develop a tech strategy for the region, which will outline the competitive advantages to locating to the Cowichan Valley.
The Valley is already home to several digital animation companies and software developers within the tech industry. The project funded by ICET will help the region plan for and accelerate growth in this sector.
Amy Melmock, Manager of Economic Development Cowichan, said the strategy will investigate whether the Valley has all the infrastructure in place to further develop the high-tech industry. “With a strong fibre network in place, and designers, software developers, game creators and digital animators already gaining a foothold here, this study couldn’t be more timely,” she says.
The Cowichan Valley has many competitive advantages that tech companies are looking for, including the lifestyle that the Valley offers. As well, the cost of living is competitive and employees are still close to major centres like Vancouver, Victoria and Nanaimo.
The Downtown Duncan Improvement Area Society (DDBIA) received $10,000 from the BC Rural Dividend Fund to develop a long-term plan aimed at improving business and economic opportunities.
DDBIA President Judy Stafford states, “We are excited about this funding opportunity as it will build on our current successes. We are looking at a longer-term vision, strengthening existing partnerships and creating new ones that will benefit landlords, business owners, restaurants, and professional services.”
Outcomes of this project will ensure downtown Duncan continues to offer outstanding shopping and services for Cowichan residents, as well as a vibrant and attractive destination for visitors. Part of the funds will help leverage partnerships with the City of Duncan, Economic Development Cowichan, the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce and Community Futures Cowichan.
Jean Cardno, Marketing Chair of the DDBIA and owner of Cardino’s Shoes comments, “Those of us who own businesses and work downtown know the volume of visitors and locals who come to Duncan to eat, shop and play. People are always impressed with our small but mighty downtown, so any investment in our economic development is a good thing.”
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The Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce had a busy February hosting several networking and professional development events. Welcome new members: Vancouver Island Childcare and More, Rotary Club of Duncan Daybreak, Island Gem and Bead Supply, Russell Farms and Garden Market, The Loft Salon, Equipoise Bodyworks, Westview Power Ltd, Hillcrest Farm Bed and Breakfast, and the Lion Rampant Scottish Pub and Liquor Store.