A new provincial investment is aimed at helping Kootenays communities work together to strengthen local food production, improve access to locally grown food and build a more resilient regional food system.
The provincial government is providing nearly $72,000 through the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP) to support the Nakusp and Area Development Board’s Agri-food Alliance initiative.
The project will bring together local non-profit organizations, farmers, producers and businesses to collaborate on initiatives designed to strengthen food production and distribution across the region.
The partnership will focus on expanding local food production, improving distribution networks and creating stronger connections between producers and buyers. Planned activities include community workshops and events, shared resources for participating organizations and greater public awareness of locally produced food.
The initiative will also explore opportunities for regional food distribution, support new agri-food businesses, strengthen links between farmers and buyers such as school food programs and develop a feasibility plan for a future food hub.
“Our mission is to cultivate an ecosystem where farmers, producers, non-profits, and community thrive together, ensuring a resilient local food network and healthy agricultural legacy for the Arrow Lakes region,” said Mickey Wojnarowski, president of the Nakusp and Area Development Board. “When asked what success would be, our community shared how they value opportunities to collaborate together. We see our communities’ local food success stories as a win for all. This funding provides us with the strength we need to grow our agri-food culture.”
In partnership with the Nakusp and District Chamber of Commerce, the development board will also expand support for local businesses during periods of economic disruption.
Provincial officials said the investment is intended to help strengthen local supply chains while improving access to fresh food and creating new opportunities for farmers and producers.
Since 2022, the provincial government said it has invested $156.5 million through REDIP, supporting 525 projects across B.C. and creating an estimated 7,500 jobs in rural communities.
