Creating a sense of place and food security in ’Yalis

You learn skills, you learn patience – things don’t grow quick, it takes time. You’re building up self-esteem, confidence, and getting them to have a good feeling of what it’s like to care for and feed your community.

How a shared kitchen is growing success for Comox Valley farmers and families

For more than 20 years, LUSH Valley has run healthy food programs and advocated for increased food security across the Comox Valley. In 2023, Lush Valley built a commercial kitchen in Courtenay’s Tin Town neighbourhood through an investment with Island Coastal Economic Trust.
In 2023, LUSH Valley distributed 11,000 Good Food Boxes across the Comox Valley.

How an economic development report is moving Malcolm Island forward

The plan was a great jumping-off point. We organized focus groups that engaged different conversations across the community. It gave us both the time and space to work through suggestions and consider where we wanted to be with a new identity.

As a Regional Business Advisor, Brady is eager to help business owners thrive.

From the innovative world of robotics to the sweet success of a hand-crafted ice cream, Brady Calancie, a Regional Business Advisor, is eager to help business owners gain a competitive advantage.

Flourishing, healthy, and resilient Nations leading a sustainable economy in Kyuquot

“Strategic planning is even more critical within First Nations communities in helping to maintain focus on goals and leverage resources in strategic, efficient, and effective ways.”

About Island Coastal Economic Trust

We strategically invest in inclusive economic development, diversification, and innovation in partnership with communities across Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, and island and inlets from the Salish Sea to Cape Caution.

Learn about how we empower communities and our regional impact in our latest Impact Report. 

$60 million

invested in communities

$333 million

total investment impact

2,910

permanent jobs created