The Vancouver Island Coast Economic Developers Association believes we’re in the best climate for growing ideas.
With a common goal of developing a strong technology sector, a handful of communities working together as a part of VICEDA have launched a new website.
Emerging from the association’s Technology Attraction Strategy, TechIsland showcases the Island’s technology infrastructure and highlights the unique amenities that contribute to Vancouver Island’s lifestyle.
“Eight communities north of the Malahat are participating in this project,” says VICEDA Chair and Campbell River Economic Development Officer, Rose Klukas. “We’ve created this new website that highlights all of the reasons why tech companies should choose Vancouver Island to grow their company. Some of the reasons include affordability, space, and lifestyle. Things we take for granted here.”
Campbell River, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, Parksville, Cowichan Valley Regional District, the Comox Valley Economic Development Society, the District of Ucluelet and Qualicum Beach are all participating.
Along with traditional resource sectors such as forestry, fisheries, aquaculture, tourism and manufacturing, Klukas says these communities include emerging sectors like aerospace, clean technologies, agri-tech and high tech.
“By marketing our region as a corridor of vibrant, small and mid-sized communities we are able to build on our combined assets, infrastructure, and supports to offer a wide range of technology-related investment opportunities,” Klukas says. “The communities’ collaborative and supportive approach also ensures retention as you can see from the successful business showcased on the website.”
She says the Island’s high-quality of life, a highly educated workforce with well-resourced universities and colleges, and transportation networks are significant assets.
“Also, our close proximity to some of the major tech hubs like Vancouver, Seattle and even the Silicon Valley.”
Not only did TechIsland receive $20,000 in funding from the CanExport Community Investments program to get the ball rolling, Klukas adds that “each community pitched in some funding and we received some federal grants matching funds in order to make this happen.”
To check out the new TechIsland website, click here.
