September 24th, 2007
Local organizations and entrepreneurs with questions about the federal government’s Mountain Pine Beetle Program – Community Economic Diversification Initiative (CEDI) can now turn to Community Futures Central Kootenay for answers.
Western Economic Diversification Canada has launched a Request for Expressions of Interest, the first stage of the application process for CEDI. The deadline for initial Expressions of Interest is October 19, 2007.
The Community Economic Diversification Initiative is an important component of the federal Mountain Pine Beetle Program. It is a two-year federal contribution program aimed at helping to diversify the economic foundation of forest-dependent communities and contribute to their long-term stability.
“We are very excited about this new initiative,” said Paul Wiest, General Manager of Community Futures Central Kootenay. “We hope it can help address the economic challenges that are arising due to the impact of the mountain pine beetle.”
Western Economic Diversification Canada will deliver the initiative on behalf of the federal government. Working with Community Futures Development Corporations of BC and other key stakeholders, the Department will invest over $33 million in projects that support economic growth, job creation and future sustainability of communities adversely affected by the widespread beetle infestation.
Community Futures Central Kootenay will provide outreach and information on CEDI and the application process including coaching and mentoring for those clients in our region who require assistance with their Expression of Interest.
The Request for Expressions of Interest is the first stage of the CEDI application process. Western Economic Diversification Canada will review each Expression of Interest and rank it according to pre-established assessment criteria. For more information on eligibility, application deadlines and how to submit an Expression of Interest, please review the completion guide available at: www.wd.gc.ca
Applicants will receive notification upon receipt of their Expression of Interest and will subsequently be notified of their status in the process. Western Economic Diversification Canada will contact applicants with the highest-ranking Expressions of Interest to request a more detailed proposal containing supporting documentation and information. The proposal will then proceed through the Department’s regular approval process, which may or may not lead to final project approval. All projects must be completed by March 31, 2009.
Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) is a department of the Government of Canada that works in partnership with the provinces, industry associations and communities to stimulate and encourage diversification of the western economy, as well as to represent the interests of the West in national decision-making.
For more information please contact:
Lisa Cannady
Special Projects
CFDC Central Kootenay
Phone: 250-352-1933 x113
Web site: www.futures.bc,ca
Link: Western Economic Diversification Canada