Regional Pilot Communities in the North Coast
This page was last updated on November 16, 2022.
Bordering the Pacific Ocean, the North Coast region covers the northern coastal areas of the province as well as the islands of Haida Gwaii. The spectacular forests, majestic mountains and rugged coastlines makes this area popular with those who enjoy spending time outdoors. It is home to many species of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, eagles and whales. The Kermode bear, a rare cream-coloured Black Bear, is found in some areas along the coast. People choose to live here for its pristine wilderness, easy access to outdoor pursuits, relaxed lifestyle and growing economy.
The North Coast’s economy includes forestry and logging with support activities, transportation and warehousing, health care and social assistance, construction, and retail trade.
Participating communities in the North Coast region:
Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine (Areas B, C, E)
Community Description:
Kitimat-Stikine is looking to attract crop producers in fruit, vegetable, and wheat farming, as well as mushroom production and greenhouse crops. Crop production businesses will be prioritized. Kitimat-Stikine is also looking to attract recreational tourism, construction, education, and childcare businesses.
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine is a group of communities that work together collaboratively to grow small businesses and attract value-added and innovative businesses. Support is available through financial institutions and business organisations such as Chambers of Commerce, community development centres, and settlement services, as well as through partnerships with municipalities.
The rustic charm of the district’s communities allows residents to live, work and play with nature just outside their door. It is an ideal place to raise a family. Residents enjoy a range of indoor and outdoor recreational options, have ample opportunity to learn from and explore the many Indigenous cultures, and can attend the nearby University of Northern British Columbia and Coast Mountain College.
Kitimat-Stikine values the partnerships and programs that help communities succeed. Over the next five years, Kitimat-Stikine looks forward to population growth in all of its communities. To support that growth, the district will be promoting the many quality of life advantages the region offers.
Priority Sectors:
111 - Crop production
7212 - Recreational vehicle (RV) parks and recreational camps
6244 - Child day-care services
6115 - Technical and trade schools
Population: 37,367
Website: www.rdks.ecdev.org
Contact: bcpnp@rdks.bc.ca
Terrace
Community Description:
Terrace would like to encourage value-added manufacturing and industrial service enterprises that will create meaningful, long-term employment for residents. Terrace is also looking for businesses that will develop infrastructure, technology, and products that contribute to new ways of processing natural resources in environmentally friendly ways.
As a regional hub for Northwestern B.C., Terrace is home to a variety of business development supports. Recently, several local business agencies formed a collaborative partnership that focuses on community-wide initiatives. They support economic development by lowering barriers, educating about existing supports for businesses, and advocating for new supports.
Terrace is home to diverse residents, plentiful education facilities, an increasing number of young families, and some of the best outdoor adventures in the province. The outdoor lifestyle and cultural services in Terrace maintain its character and community.
Over the next five years, Terrace is expecting rapid population growth due to its new hospital development, industrial park, regional oil and gas projects, and port development in Prince Rupert. As an established and growing gateway for regional economic activity, Terrace anticipates strong demand for new businesses to support and accelerate that growth.
Priority Sectors:
321 - Wood product manufacturing
2131 - Support activities for mining, and oil and gas extraction
3123 - Cannabis product manufacturing
Population: 12,817
Website: https://www.livenorthwestbc.ca/
Contact: BCPNP@Terrace.ca