@sangroupinc.com
BRITISH COLUMBIA – The Government of BC is taking proactive measures to foster new employment opportunities in the resource sector. Through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund (BCMJF), the government is contributing up to $8.6 million to support eight capital projects that aim to facilitate the growth and diversification of manufacturers.
These projects involve the establishment of new production lines, acquisition of equipment, and integration of innovative technology, with the overarching goal of ensuring long-term sustainability and generating new jobs while preserving existing positions.
“San Group will allocate BCMJF funds to advance its Port Alberni value-added plant. This infusion enables increased wood product manufacturing, fostering heightened production and bolstered environmental sustainability,” said Kamal Sanghera, president of San Industries Ltd and recipient of the funding. “The investment serves as a pivotal step towards enhancing operational efficiency while aligning with San Group’s commitment to responsible and eco-friendly business practices.”
Recipients of funds from the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund include:
- Lax Kw’alaams – Coast Tsimshian Resources LP near Prince Rupert: Receives up to $970,000 for the acquisition of an industrial chipper and peripherals, enabling increased utilization of its fibre basket and creating 108 direct and indirect jobs.
- Downie Timber Ltd. in Revelstoke, a lumber-milling and remanufacturing wood processor: Receives up to $825,000 to purchase and commission a new debarker system and undertake facility upgrades, safeguarding 229 existing jobs within the company.
- Sunrise Engineering & Manufacturing Inc., a fabrication facility that provides welding, machining and assembly services that specialize in the manufacturing and repairing of a wide variety of pulp mill equipment in Delta: Receives up to $805,000 for acquiring new advanced manufacturing equipment, enhancing capacity, and creating five skilled jobs.
- Access Precision Machining Ltd. in Salmon Arm, which manufactures custom machined parts for various industries including oil and gas, aerospace and commercial sectors: Receives up to $800,000 to purchase seven new machines, expanding its market, increasing productivity, and creating up to 18 jobs.
- Yarrow Wood (2012) Inc., a lumber remanufacturer, providing custom square and rectangular lumber remanufacturing for forestry companies in Chilliwack: Receives up to $130,000 to upgrade equipment, supporting lumber profiling in-house and creating up to seven jobs.
- C.W. Creative Woodcraft Ltd., a cabinet and millwork manufacturer specializing in using local, second-growth fibre in Cobble Hill: Receives up to $286,000 to expand its facility and acquire new machinery, doubling production capacity and creating up to 14 jobs.
- San Industries Ltd., a vertically integrated forestry company that produces value-added and engineered wood products in Port Alberni: Receives up to $2.5 million for purchasing new equipment, optimizing processing, and constructing a new storage facility, creating 30 jobs.
- Richmond Plywood Corp. Ltd.: Receives up to $2.3 million to purchase and install new equipment for value-added manufacturing processes, upskilling 24 employees and creating 14 jobs.
“This funding will be used to enhance our operational capabilities through the expansion of our existing facility, and the acquisition of new machinery. We are extremely grateful for the support from the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund. The program contribution will help Creative Woodcraft Ltd. to increase production, optimize resource utilization, reduce waste and provide secure employment opportunities within our community,” said Will Duggan, president of C.W. Creative Woodcraft Ltd.
The BCMJF, with a total value of $180 million, supports high-value industrial and manufacturing projects to generate well-paying jobs and economic benefits for communities in British Columbia, fostering clean and inclusive growth throughout the province. This funding aligns with the Province’s commitment to supporting value-added manufacturing in the forestry sector, contributing to the diversification of the industry, and safeguarding existing jobs while addressing global market challenges.
Business Examiner Staff
