Jennifer Wetmore is Executive Director of CFBC
BRITISH COLUMBIA – As 2025 draws to a close, Community Futures British Columbia (CFBC) is reflecting on a milestone year, one that marks 40 years of supporting entrepreneurs, growing communities, and strengthening local economies across the province.
Since its founding in 1985, Community Futures has been a cornerstone of economic development in rural British Columbia. With 34 locally governed offices, the organization continues to help small and medium-sized businesses start, grow, and thrive. This year’s 40th anniversary celebrations provided the perfect moment to recognize the people, partnerships, and passion behind that success.
Celebrating 40 Years of Local Impact
Throughout 2025, Community Futures offices across B.C. hosted open houses, community events, and local business spotlights to celebrate four decades of service. These gatherings were more than just milestones; they were a chance to recognize the entrepreneurs, volunteers, and staff who have shaped the organization’s impact.
General Manager Morgan Beall, Sunshine Coast, reflected on the unique role of CF: “Traditional financial institutions often fall short when it comes to meeting the real needs of entrepreneurs, especially those in rural communities. Community Futures does what others can’t: it understands the unique challenges and opportunities here and truly supports local businesses in a meaningful way.”
A Legacy of Empowering Entrepreneurs
For 40 years, Community Futures has been there for entrepreneurs at every stage, from early planning to expansion. Services like business consulting, flexible financing, and workshops have helped thousands of British Columbians turn ideas into reality.
The organization’s Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Program (EDP) and support for Indigenous entrepreneurship reflect a broader mission: to make business ownership accessible to everyone, regardless of circumstance or geography.
As General manager Mike Sahota, Nicola Valley, notes: “Our flexibility is a surprise to clients, how we bend over backwards to help the business succeed. I would like people to look at CF not as a business, but as a helping hand.”
The Enduring Value of the Network
What sets the CFBC network apart is its strong local roots and province-wide connection. Each of the 34 offices is guided by a volunteer board of local leaders, ensuring decisions reflect community priorities. United by a shared mission, the network works collaboratively to keep small business at the heart of B.C.’s economy.
General Manager Blair Gray, Thompson Country, emphasized the human element behind the support: “A key strength across the CF network is the people who work and volunteer for CFs. They are passionate about what they do and have the local community knowledge to best support businesses in their communities.”
“The greatest strength of Community Futures is our shared commitment to supporting the resilience and growth of rural/remote entrepreneurs and communities. Across the network of 34 CF offices in BC, there’s a strong culture of collaboration—everyone’s ready to share ideas and solutions. We recognize the unique challenges and opportunities in rural BC, and we work together to find practical ways to help our clients reach their goals and build sustainable businesses and communities.” Karen Eden, General Manager, Community Futures Cariboo Chilcotin.
Looking Ahead: Building the Next 40 Years
As Community Futures BC marks 40 years, the focus is firmly on the future. Evolving with entrepreneurs’ needs, CFBC offers modern tools, digital workshops, and advisory services through the Resource Hub. In the year ahead, CFBC will strengthen partnerships across government, Indigenous communities, and the private sector to ensure every B.C. entrepreneur has the support to succeed.
“We look forward to continuing to develop good working relationships with the Federal and Provincial government and with local stakeholders to ensure that rural economies remain resilient and sustainable.” Jennifer Wetmore, Executive Director of CFBC.
A Message of Gratitude
From the volunteers and board members to the staff and business owners, CFBC’s 40‑year journey is shaped by human dedication. As Anna Duff, Former General Manager, CF Fraser Fort George, reflected: “I’m so proud of the diligent approach everyone connected with our office takes in supporting our community. From volunteers to staff, we are keen to come alongside entrepreneurs where they are, offer support, and celebrate their successes.”
As the year wraps up, CFBC extends thanks to the entrepreneurs, community partners and local offices who have contributed to this milestone. With the foundation of the past 40 years as a springboard, the network is positioned to help the next generation of entrepreneurs thrive. Here’s to the next chapter of innovation, collaboration, and local success across British Columbia.
Learn more about your local Community Futures office at www.communityfutures.ca.
