Pathways to a Sustainable Economic Development Strategy

The Town is developing an Economic Development Strategy to support sustainable economic growth. The Strategy aims to foster economic development in a way that protects the environment and quality of life in our community. It will be a visionary, long-term plan grounded in actionable, practical steps.

The Strategy will align with the Official Community Plan, 2024-2028 Strategic Plan, Sustainability Action Plan, and other key strategies. It will provide a clear framework for how the Town invests its resources and efforts to support economic development. Community and business input will play a vital role, with multiple opportunities to share ideas and feedback.

Public engagement opportunities are detailed below, under Public Consultation.

Share your perspectives to inform the Town’s Sustainable Economic Development Strategy

Complete the Survey

Project Timeline

Mar 2025 – Tender Awarded
Apr – May 2025 – Project kick-off and background research
Jun – Jul 2025 – Public engagement activities
Aug – Oct 2025 – Strategy development
Oct 2025 – Public review of draft strategic directions
Dec 2025 – Feb 2026- Finalizing the Strategy
Feb 2026 – Presentation to Town Council

Public Consultation

The Town is partnering with the Qualicum Beach Chamber of Commerce and Parksville Qualicum Tourism Association.

The following public consultation is hosted by the Town and Nordicity, in partnership with ClimateDoor:

Online Survey

Complete this survey before August 6 to share your perspectives on the sustainable Economic Development Strategy.

Focus Group – Sustainable Innovation and the Regional Economy (virtual)

Date: Wednesday July 30th
Time: 10-11.30am
Location: Zoom
RSVP: [email protected]

Focus Group – Building a Sustainable Local Economy (in person)

Date: Friday August 1
Time: 9.30 – 11.30am
Location: Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, 747 Jones Street
RSVP: [email protected]

Focus Group – Sustainable Tourism (in person)

Date: Thursday July 31, 2025
Time: 2 – 4 pm
Location: Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, 747 Jones Street
RSVP: [email protected]

Funding

The Town gratefully acknowledges the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure program for funding the Town $100,00 under its Economic Diversification/Economic Development umberella.

The project was awarded to Nordicity in the amount of $112,470, as detailed in the March 12, 2025 Planning report to Council.

Additional Resources

Jul 2025 – Project Commencement Media Release
Mar 2025 –Tender Award Memo

Questions

To contact the Town with questions or inquiries related to this project, please use the Public Inquiry Form.

Public Inquiry Form

Question or Concern?