Labour Market News

Want to find out more about local or provincial labour market history? The labour market news archive may be a good place to start.

In this section, you can browse archived news titles, whose links are no longer functional, for up to one year from the current date. The archived news can help you understand the labour market trends in geographic areas and industries that are of interest to you.

• Week of 2023-09-11 to 2023-09-15

  • Effective January 15, 2024, Air Canada will cease services to Penticton Regional Airport.

    castanet.net

  • Construction has begun on the Telus Ocean office tower in Victoria. The 10-storey complex features underground parking, ground-level retail spaces, eight levels of offices, and rooftop space. Completion is expected in 2025 and as many as 450 Telus employees are expected to work out of the building.

    citified.ca

  • Isabella Dicken Elementary School, located in Fernie, has completed construction of a new single-storey expansion through a $7.8M project funded by the B.C. government. The addition includes four kindergarten classrooms, a media technology room, a special education room, and a multipurpose room. The project has also added 80 new student seats.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has provided the Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique with $6.46M to purchase property for a future, permanent site for École du Pacifique in Sechelt.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $16.8M to partially replace Wonowon Elementary School. The replacement will include upgrading the existing water well and filtration system, accessibility upgrades, and creating 20 additional student seats. Construction is projected to start in summer 2024 and finish in fall 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $61.2M to replace and expand Carson Elementary School in Quesnel. The new school will have an increased total of 390 seats, as well as an expanded gym and neighbourhood learning centre. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2024 and be complete in fall 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Gitwinksihlkw Elementary School has added a new gymnasium supported by funding from the B.C. government. The gymnasium will provide students with enhanced physical education spaces and an event space for the larger community.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $126.8M to ensure 600 students will be learning in a seismically safer school by replacing Prince Rupert Middle School. The upgraded school will also include the construction of a neighbourhood learning centre.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Snuneymuxw Nation is partnering with the City of Nanaimo, Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District, and B.C. Housing on a major development in the Harewood area. The project would see 390 rental units and amenities including a daycare, school, health services, and commercial spaces.

    timescolonist.com

  • The Regional District of Bulkley Nechako has opened a new recycling depot at Knockholt Transfer Station in Houston. The depot will offer recycling of residential print, paper, and packaging.

    houston-today.com

  • The City of White Rock is hiring for a variety of positions, including recreation attendants, property/insurance manager, plumbers, building inspectors, and on-call firefighters.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Port Coquitlam announced plans to transition a corner store to a childcare facility for up to 37 children. The project is awaiting building permits and final approvals.

    tricitynews.com

  • Tacofino, a Mexican-inspired chain restaurant, is planning to open in Squamish in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Thierry Chocolates, a chocolatery and pâtisserie, has opened a café in West Vancouver. This is the third location in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Kinton Ramen is opening a Japanese restaurant in Surrey in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Lieto Café opened a bakery and cafe in Langley in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $2.88B to build a second hospital and new cancer centre in Surrey, with 168 additional hospital beds and 55 treatment spaces to support population growth. Construction is expected to finish in 2029 with opening targeted for 2030.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has completed an $11.8M four-storey modular building that provides permanent housing for residents at the Emergency Response Centre (ERC) in Burnaby. This ERC was originally developed to support the population at higher risk from COVID-19 and will close after residents relocate to the new homes. The B.C. government will provide an annual operating subsidy of $1.9M.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is contributing $4M to the National Institute of Disability Management and Research to provide early intervention and occupational rehabilitation for people who are unable to work due to injury or disability. Intervention can include healthcare support, ergonomic assistance, job coaching, medical exams and assistance to maintain employment.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is accepting applications from B.C. communities to establish a local Foundry centre to provide young people ages 12-24 and their caregivers free and confidential assistance that addresses their unique mental-health and wellness needs. The province will provide $1.5M to establish the foundry centre and additional annual funding for operations and services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $31.3M for seismic upgrades at Alfred B. Dixon Elementary in Richmond. The seismic upgrades are expected to be complete by May 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is launching the first Downtown Eastside (DTES) Youth Outreach Centre in Vancouver, aiming to connect young people with crucial mental-health and substance-use supports. The multi-disciplinary outreach team is expanding from two workers to eight, including nurses, youth care workers, Indigenous peer advocate and social workers.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government contributed $10.8M to the North Arm Housing Co-operative project, which provides 58 new affordable rental homes for seniors with low or moderate incomes in Vancouver. The 411 Seniors Centre Society will operate the seniors centre that includes a commercial kitchen, multipurpose space and office space.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government provided $2M to the City of Penticton for a new child care centre with 116 spaces for infant, toddlers and school-aged children. The new 7,500 sq. ft. facility includes six child care rooms, kitchen, office spaces, and storage rooms, and is operated by OneSky Community Resources.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3M over three years to continue to deliver YMCA's Y Mind and Mind Medicine programs in 30 communities to help youth and young adults cope with stress and anxiety. Mental-health professionals will provide programs, mental-wellness tools, resources and support. The program aims to reach over 1800 youth and young adults over the next three years.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • School District 57 (Prince George) is currently seeking to fill 59 jobs. Positions include counsellors, learning support assistants, and elementary and secondary school teachers.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $58.6M to build a new elementary school in Chilliwack with 500 student seats, and a neighbouring learning centre and child care facility. Construction will start in late 2024 and the school is expected to be open in fall 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Browns Socialhouse, a Vancouver-based restaurant chain, is set to open inside the Tin Wis Resort in Tofino.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants program is now accepting applications from Indigenous, local, and regional governments looking to advance transportation infrastructure and planning projects.

    constructconnect.com

  • The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation is providing $150K in funding to advance the development of the Reserve House Revitalization pilot project in the Ktunaxa Nation. The project is directed at the preservation and revitalization of six on-reserve homes.

    e-know.ca

  • Skeena Sawmills Ltd. is indefinitely closing its sawmill in Terrace due to continuing financial and operating difficulties. Up to 150 employees are affected by this closure.

    terracestandard.com
• Week of 2023-09-04 to 2023-09-08

  • Choices Market, a BC-based grocer, opened its newest location in Parksville last month.

    pqbnews.com

  • Four Rivers Co-op is providing $100K to 14 northern B.C. organizations through their community support fund. The application period for the next round of funds will open in mid-September.

    houston-today.com

  • Four Rivers Co-op is providing $100K to 14 northern B.C. organizations through their community support fund. The application period for the next round of funds will open in mid-September.

    houston-today.com

  • Four Rivers Co-op is providing $100K to 14 northern B.C. organizations through their community support fund. The application period for the next round of funds will open in mid-September.

    houston-today.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $281K in funding to support a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning retrofit for the Snuneymuxw Daycare in Nanaimo. The project will improve air quality and reduce energy consumption operating costs for the facility.

    canada.ca

  • The BC Ambulance Service (BCEHS) in Fort St. John's is currently recruiting local individuals interested in emergency medicine to become Emergency Medical Responders and Primary Care Paramedics. There are 32 full-time positions available and training costs will be covered.

    alaskahighwaynews.ca

  • Bison Guy, a local ranch in Hudson's Hope, opened a new processing plant last month to add to its agricultural operations.

    energeticcity.ca

  • Construction has begun on Teck's new office building in Sparwood. The 121,500 sq.ft. facility will have space for 580 employees and is expected to open in 2025.

    myeastkootenaynow.com

  • The Downtown Art Gallery opened in Castlegar in July. The gallery is open Thursday and Friday from 5 – 7 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. or by appointment.

    castlegarnews.com

  • The College of New Caledonia has opened a new dry lab at its Prince George campus to provide more space for students in the growing medical laboratory technology sciences program. The lab features 18 new microscopes and computer workstations. Funding for the lab was provided by the B.C. government's Ministry of Post Secondary Education and Future Skills.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • Save-on-Foods, a grocery store chain, is opening a location at the Pine Centre Mall in Prince George in September.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • Upgrades at the South Cariboo Regional Airport have begun in 108 Mile Ranch. The project's upgrades include the replacement of the existing light system with a new LED light system and a repaved runway, apron, and taxiway.

    mycariboonow.com

  • The District of 100 Mile House's South Cariboo Joint Grants for Assistance Annual Intake Program is currently accepting applications from non-profit organizations in the Southern Cariboo region. The funding must be used for projects, activities and events that strengthen and enhance the wellbeing of the community and promote volunteerism.

    mycariboonow.com

  • Pic-a-Flic Video, a movie rental store in Victoria, will be closing its doors at the end of August. The store has been in business for 40 years.

    cheknews.ca

  • A new 62-unit affordable housing development is now open in Nanaimo. The newly opened building provides homes for seniors and people with disabilities with low to moderate incomes. The project received approximately $10M in joint funding from the Government of Canada, B.C. government, and Woodgrove Senior Citizens Housing Society.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Wa-Bagel, a Japanese-styled bagel shop, is opening in Vancouver in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Starbucks Coffee is closing its only unionized Starbucks coffee shop in Vancouver at the end of September. The closure is due to a lease expiry. The employees have an opportunity to remain employed at another Starbucks location if desire.

    cbc.ca

  • Chatto Tea & Coffee, a Malaysian-based brand, is closing its coffee shop in Burnaby in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • IGA, a supermarket chain, is permanently closing its Port Moody location in October. This IGA store has been operating for over 30 years. The location, after an upgrade, may re-open under a different brand.

    tricitynews.com

  • The Prime Medical Clinic in Kelowna has announced a sudden closure, with little notice to their physicians, employees and patients. The Central Okanagan Division of Family Practice is working to relocate the physicians to established practices or help set up new practices in the community.

    castanet.net

  • Blackbird Interactive, a video game studio, has laid off 40 employees in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Disney's new TRON: Ares movie, was scheduled to film in Vancouver from August to December, but has now laid off 150 people due to the ongoing effects of the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) strike. There is no known date of when the production will resume.

    dailyhive.com

  • The District of Peachland has approved a new 73-unit senior’s complex. The approval will allow Peachland Seniors Support Society and BC Housing to proceed with construction.

    castanet.net

  • The Government of Canada is providing $294,523 to Essie's Place in Salmon Arm, for a 15-month project to develop community-informed solutions to address key barriers in the 2SLGBTQI+ communities. Essie's Place will deliver diversity and learning programs to community members.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $23.2M for an additional classrooms in Abbottsford for Auguston Traditional and Margaret Stenersen elementary schools, adding 180 and 360 new seats, respectively. Construction at both schools is expected to be complete in summer 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and the Coquitlam School District have provided $43.3M towards the new Coast Salish Elementary school in Coquitlam. The new school has 430 new student spaces and will include a new child care centre for up to 55 children.

    globalnews.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $32.2M to replace Moody Elementary in Port Moody. The school will have 385 student spaces. Construction has begun and the school is expected to open in 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.4M annually to support the Community Adult Literacy Program (CALP). CALP will support 102 adult literacy programs in 132 communities and over 16,000 people in 2023-2024. The programs support adults with improving skills and accessing job opportunities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada has released data on in-demand skilled trades, with a need for 256,000 apprentices over the next 5 years in Canada. The in-demand skilled trades in B.C. include hairstylists, industrial electrician, painter/decorators, steamfitter/pipefitter and welders.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is accepting project proposals to build 3,500 affordable units for people with moderate and low incomes. The Community Housing Fund is a $3.3B program that aims to build 20,000 affordable rentals by 2032.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-08-28 to 2023-09-01

  • The North Peace Community Foundation is providing $187K to three community service organizations in Northeast B.C. through the Government of Canada's Community Services Recovery Fund. The fund aims to support community service organizations, charities, non-profits, and Indigenous governing bodies as they adapt to the long-term impacts of the pandemic.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $400K to renovate the multi-use room at the Sportsplex in Terrace. The renovations will equip the room to be used as a before-school and after-school daycare space for school-age children. The school-age program will have up to 30 licensed childcare spaces and is expected to be in place by October.

    terracestandard.com

  • Kaiser Taxi Service is expected to begin operations soon in Smithers. Final inspections are currently underway.

    mybulkleylakesnow.com

  • The City of Kimberley has approved three development permits to build over 100 rental units in Kimberley. All the projects are financed by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, which ensures that there will be units below market rate.

    kimberleybulletin.com

  • The Prince George Community Foundation is providing $960K in funding to support 20 projects in Northern B.C through the Government of Canada's Community Services Recovery Fund. The fund aims to support community service organizations, charities, non-profits, and Indigenous governing bodies as they adapt to the long-term impacts of the pandemic.

    mycariboonow.com

  • The B.C. government is placing a protection order on the Koksilah River watershed on Vancouver Island to protect steelhead trout amid low stream flows and drought. 108 water licence holders will be restricted from diverting water for agriculture and industrial purposes. The order remains in effect until September 30, or until further notice from the province.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • School District No.91 is currently seeking to hire teachers and educational staff to fill positions in Burns Lake. The school district is offering a $10K signing incentive and moving reimbursements to address the teaching shortage in northern BC.

    burnslakelakesdistrictnews.com

  • A new weather radar tower has been installed in Halfmoon Bay to provide better forecasting across Vancouver Island. The tower covers areas past Vancouver Island, beyond the Strait of Georgia, and into the interior, allowing better forecasting models and alerts if severe weather is detected.

    mycoastnow.com

  • The Fraser-Fort George Regional Hospital District has approved $2.04M in funding for lab services upgrades at the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia in Prince George. The funds will be used to replace aging equipment and allow the lab to manage increased test volumes and additional testing platforms.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • The Community Foundation of the Kootenay Rockies and the Columbia Valley Community Foundation is providing $371K to nine organizations in the Kootenays region through the Government of Canada's Community Services Recovery Fund. The fund aims to support community service organizations, charities, non-profits, and Indigenous governing bodies as they adapt to the long-term impacts of the pandemic.

    myeastkootenaynow.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.5M to upgrade the 911 emergency system in Nelson. The upgrade will improve service by allowing callers to report emergencies via text message and video messaging.

    nelsonstar.com

  • Kahuna Burger, a Victoria-based Hawaiian-themed restaurant, is planning to open in Victoria's downtown core this October.

    victorianow.com

  • The B.C government is providing grants of up to $2,500 for international and francophone educators applying for Early Childhood educator (ECE) certification. The grants can be used to translate non-English documents. This funding is in addition to the Government of Canada providing $750,000 for the 2021-25 agreement, allowing 300 ECEs to apply for the grant.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Din Tai Fung, a world-renowned Chinese restaurant chain, is planning to open in Vancouver. This will be the first location in Canada.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $15M for graduate scholarships over three years, adding $2,500 to each new graduate scholarship award. The scholarships aid students access more affordable education and prepare them for in-demand careers.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Kokomo, a vegan eatery, has opened a cafe in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Greek is planning to open a new restaurant in Vancouver in late 2023.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cockney Kings Fish and Chips, a seafood eatery, is planning to open a small eatery in Vancouver. This spot is takeout focused, with limited seating spaces.

    dailyhive.com

  • Monzo Burger, a fast-food restaurant, is opening in Vancouver in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Tim Hortons, a fast-food coffee chain, is opening a store in the Commercial-Broadway SkyTrain station in Vancouver soon.

    dailyhive.com

  • Fresh Slice, a fast-food pizza chain, has opened a store in the Yaletown-Roundhouse SkyTrain Station in Vancouver. The store is open daily from 10:30am to midnight.

    dailyhive.com

  • Catalyst Paper, a subsidiary of Paper Excellence, is extending the curtailment at its Catalyst-Crofton pulp and paper mill until the end of September. This will impact both the kraft mill and the paper mill. Operations at Catalyst-Crofton have been curtailed since June 30. Approximately 400 employees continue to be affected. The company has cited low global demand for pulp and paper products as the reason for the curtailment.

    vicnews.com

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $8.4M to support upgrades to the Montrose Avenue Transit Exchange in Abbotsford. The funding supports an enhanced transit exchange with ten bus bays, transit shelters, cycling amenities, and improvements to pedestrian and road infrastructure.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $750,000 to create an outdoor event space at the Richmond Olympic Oval. The funding will support a multi-use outdoor venue with new sports fields, courts and amenities, which creates community gatherings, tourism and outdoor recreation programming.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government and LIFT Impact partners are providing $140,000 to the Surrey-Delta Indo Canadian Seniors Society to install a new elevator to provide better accessibility for seniors. The funding supports seniors with on-site access to programs, social activities, and food sharing.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Businesses in the Central Okanagan that rely on tourism continue to be negatively impacted by the after effects of wildfires that occurred in the area. Despite restrictions on non-essential travel being lifted, many establishments report that visitor cancellations persist.

    castanet.net

  • The B.C. government is providing $15M to Food Banks BC to help with rising demand, and fund access to services for those affected by emergency events such as wildfires. The funding supports front-line hunger relief agencies, remote areas, regional community food hubs, and food infrastructure.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The City of Kelowna issued a building permit for construction worth $262M for the University of British Columbia's Okanagan (UBCO) campus. The 43 storey building will become the tallest building in the city. The building will provide nursing and social work programs and 500 residential units for students and staff.

    castanet.net
• Week of 2023-08-21 to 2023-08-25

  • Yyoga, a yoga chain, is permanently closing its one of its Vancouver studios in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Coast Mountain College's Terrace campus is seeking individuals interested in working in the healthcare sector to enroll in their two-year practical nursing program. A $1,500 bursary incentive is being offered to increase student recruitment and address the province-wide nursing shortage.

    interior-news.com

  • The B.C. government is placing a protection order on the Tsolum River watershed on central Vancouver Island to protect spawning salmon and trout amid low stream flows and drought. 45 water licence holders will be restricted from diverting water for agriculture and industrial purposes. The order remains in effect until September 30, or until further notice from the province.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Construction is now underway on replacing the Village Green apartments in James Bay. The six-storey project is replacing a 45-unit complex with 137 rental suites. Construction is expected to be complete in 2025.

    citified.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $538M towards two restoration projects in Quesnel through the Cariboo Road Recovery Projects program, which aims to improve highway safety and reliability by stabilizing roads located on historic landslide sites.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Dawson Creek Co-op has announced that its new fertilizer shed and distribution facility in Rolla is now complete and fully operational. The upgraded fertilizer plant can blend product at speeds of 280 metric tonnes per hour, enhancing fertilizer and crop inputs for local farmers.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The Jumpstart Multisport Court in Prince George is expected to open at the end of August. The court is over 28,000 sq. ft. and includes a full size basketball court, tennis court, four pickleball courts, and a self-guided play area.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • The College of New Caledonia's Research Forest Society is providing $100K to the Stellat’en First Nation and School District 91 (Nechako Lakes) through its legacy fund, which supports projects with a focus on environmental improvement, natural resource education, outdoor recreation, or environmental commitment to local communities.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The First Nations Health Authority has opened a new office on the Lheidli T’enneh Reserve. The office will provide space for 12 provincial and regional employees on a full-time and part-time basis to deliver health and wellness programs and resources to First Nations peoples.

    ckpgtoday.ca

  • Construction of a $1.1M outdoor covered multipurpose rink is nearing completion in the District of Wells. The rink is expected to be used for hockey, pickleball, basketball, cultural events, weddings, and farmers markets.

    mycariboonow.com

  • Construction will begin this fall on a new 129-room extended stay TownePlace Suites hotel in Sidney. The three-storey all-suite hotel will feature units with fully equipped kitchens, a fitness centre, swimming pool, and meeting spaces. The hotel is slated to open in late spring of 2025.

    timescolonist.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.8M in funding to 17 northern-B.C. local governments, First Nations, and registered non-profit organizations through the Northern Healthy Communities Fund, which aims to help address service needs in communities that are experiencing large-scale economic development.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.8M in funding to 17 northern-B.C. local governments, First Nations, and registered non-profit organizations through the Northern Healthy Communities Fund, which aims to help address service needs in communities that are experiencing large-scale economic development.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.8M in funding to 17 northern-B.C. local governments, First Nations, and registered non-profit organizations through the Northern Healthy Communities Fund, which aims to help address service needs in communities that are experiencing large-scale economic development.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $650K to replace critical high-risk watermains in Telkwa. The funds will be used to support the replacement of aging pipe sections that connect Telkwa's water-treatment plant to the reservoir. The upgrade will improve water flow and supply through the village and ensure people have access to water during emergencies.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1M to Vancouver Island University to launch the Trades Pathways for Newcomers program this September. The fully-funded 15-week long program supports newcomers to Canada who want to pursue a career in the trades. Students will shadow different trades programs and also meet employers in the trades industry.

    canadianmanufacturing.com

  • Esprit, a Hong Kong-based clothing retailer, is planning to open in Vancouver. Espirit closed their previous Vancouver location in 2012, when all 100 stores in North America closed.

    dailyhive.com

  • Browns Social House, a restaurant chain, has permanently closed its Richmond location in August.

    dailyhive.com

  • Psycho Bunny, a Montreal-based clothing company, is planning to open three stores in Metro Vancouver this fall. The locations include Burnaby, Vancouver and Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Valley Bakery, a family-owned bakery in Burnaby, is permanently closing in August after 66 years of operation.

    ctvnews.ca

  • The McDougall Creek wildfire in Kelowna has caused damage to wineries, agri-food operations and residential properties. The wildfire's affects on the tourism sector includes the loss of the Lake Okanagan Resort and temporarily closure of multiple wineries and tasting rooms.

    westerninvestor.com

  • The Okanagan region's toursim sector faces severe economic effects from major event cancellations due to the McDougall fire in Kelowna. Penticton Ironman, an athlete competition with 2,000 competitors and generate $15M in business, has been cancelled. Nimble Fingers in Kamloops is an annual festival generating 1,500 visitors and suffered over $35,000 of losses in food alone. The cancellations also affect companies in accommodations and food services.

    cbc.ca

  • Glacier Media, a newspaper publisher, has announced it will cease print operations and plans to lay off staff at Burnaby Now, Tri-City News and the New Westminster Record. Glacier Media shifted to digital only in mid-August. The B.C. Labour Code requires the company to provide a 60-day notice for layoffs, and the dates and number of positions affected are not yet known.

    cbc.ca

  • Paper Excellence Canada has announced the permanent curtailment of Catalyst Paper tiskwat paper mill in Powell River, after determining the restart of a pulp or paper business is not feasible. The mill has been temporarily curtailed since December 2021, which affected around 200 employees at the time

    paperexcellence.com

  • Carbon Engineering Ltd., a Squamish-based firm, is being acquired by U.S. oil company Occidental Petroleum for $1.1B USD. Carbon Engineering aims to enhance the capture carbon and storage technology, to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. With the new U.S. acquisition, both the headquarters and employees will continue to remain in Squamish.

    cbc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $48M to Capilano University to establish a campus in Squamish on at the former site of Quest University. The new post-secondary campus is will open in spring 2024 and expects 380 students in the future. The campus will serve students studying early childhood care and education, literacy programming, arts, science and business programs and outdoor recreation.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has announced its verified account on Weibo, a popular Chinese-language social media platform. The posts will connect Chinese communities with accessible information on public safety, emergency preparedness, cost of living, housing, education, health care and justice services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • With drought conditions in the Thompson-Okanagan region, the B.C. government is setting restrictions on water use for forage crops in Salmon River and Bessette Creek, to protect the spawning chinook salmon. To aid those impacted by the restrictions, the province will help match B.C. farmers with sellers of hay and feed across Canada and western United States.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is making improvements to the intersection of Highway 97 and Skaha Hills Drive/Sandhill Road in Penticton, which will increase safety for pedestrians and vehicle traffic. Construction will begin in fall 2023 and is expected to be complete in summer 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $430,000 to several communities to improve knowledge of risks associated with extreme temperatures. Funding will support response plans and strategies to help prepare, mitigate and adapt to the risk of extreme weather and temperatures.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $17M in funding to support the construction of 152 new affordable rental homes in Delta for seniors with low to moderate incomes. The new apartment building is expected to be completed in late 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-08-14 to 2023-08-18

  • The federal government is providing $165K to Harwood Custom Composites, a Victoria-based Indigenous aerospace company, to scale up production and expand manufacturing operations. The funding will be used to secure equipment and materials, hire and train new staff, and attract new customers.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $200K in funding to the Community Social Planning Council of Victoria to help more people from underserved populations across Greater Victoria obtain essential identification documents. Personal identification documents, ranging from birth certificates and health-care cards to B.C. Services cards, are necessary to access critical government support and services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • JJ Bean, a coffee chain, has closed one of its Vancouver cafes. The reason cited for the closure was vandalism and decreased sales.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government and Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc are providing culturally safe evacuee accommodations for up to 300 people in Kamloops. The temporary accommodations will provide essential support and relief to people evacuating their homes due to wildfires. The accommodations are expected to be operational starting August 16.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $4.2M to the BC Association of Community Response Networks (CRNs) and $300,000 to the Council to Reduce Elder Abuse (CREA), to protect seniors against abuse and neglect. Eighty-six CRNs in 256 communities in B.C. work to respond to abuse and neglect for seniors. CREA prevents elder abuse through education and public awareness.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Governments of Canada, British Columbia, the City of Vancouver are providing over $97M for 248 affordable housing spaces for Indigenous residents. The development will include larger family-oriented homes, gathering spaces, and Indigenous artwork. Construction is underway and the building, Ho'-kee-melh Kloshe Lum, is expected to be completed in late 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.45M to five organizations in Metro Vancouver to support mental health and wellness projects for Veterans and their families. Projects include therapeutic programs on brain fog and long COVID, mental health, crisis services, counselling, and life reviews.

    canada.ca

  • Small Victory, a coffee chain, is opening in Vancouver soon. The café has three other locations in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Mu?kasi Coffee & Co., a café, has opened in New Westminster.

    dailyhive.com

  • Popeyes Chicken, a fast-food chain, is opening a store in Vancouver soon.

    dailyhive.com

  • Room + Spaces, a Canadian home store brand, is opening three stores in Vancouver, Kelowna and Victoria in August. With 24 stores opening across Canada, Room + Spaces is hiring 500 store associates for over 800,000 sq. ft. of retail space in Canada.

    dailyhive.com

  • Room + Spaces, a Canadian home store brand, is opening three stores in Vancouver, Kelowna and Victoria in August. With 24 stores opening across Canada, Room + Spaces is hiring 500 store associates for over 800,000 sq. ft. of retail space in Canada.

    dailyhive.com

  • Room + Spaces, a Canadian home store brand, is opening three stores in Vancouver, Kelowna and Victoria in August. With 24 stores opening across Canada, Room + Spaces is hiring 500 store associates for over 800,000 sq. ft. of retail space in Canada.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Delta is hiring for multiple jobs, including fitness instructors, firefighters, risk managers, and planners.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Burnaby is hiring for multiple jobs, including program planners, architects, specialists, instructors, analysts, and engineers.

    dailyhive.com

  • As part of the Federal Student Work Experience Program, the Government of Canada is hiring over 470 student Border Services Officers across Canada to work at the Canadian Border Services Agency in summer 2024. The locations recruiting in B.C. include Vancouver and Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government, Okanagan College and OneSky Community Resources are offering 15 tuition-free seats at the Early Childhood Education program at Okanagan College's Penticton campus. The 11-month program prepares Early Childhood educators with a practicum, hands-on experience and working with community-based and professional instructors.

    castanet.net

  • The Governments of Canada, B.C., and Metro Vancouver have provided $3.5M in joint funding to support a mutli-year improvement project for Grouse Mountain Regional Park in North Vancouver. The upgrades include a revitalized trailhead area, upgrades to trails, viewpoints, and rest stops. The Grouse Grind trail will close for upgrades from September 5 to December 31, 2023.

    metrovancouver.org

  • The B.C. government is providing $880,000 to 19 communities across B.C. to develop and upgrade emergency-evacuation-route plans and public-notification plans. Projects include supporting communities to develop and update plans, including local emergency-alerting systems, developing and reviewing evacuation route plans, geography, and modes of transportation.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Maria's Deli, a European deli and produce store in Saanich, will be closing permanently at the end of August. The restaurant has been in business for 46 years.

    victoriabuzz.com

  • The District of Saanich has begun construction on Rutledge Park this month. The $1.2M upgrade project includes modern playground equipment, splash pad, and a new washroom and changeroom building. Construction is expected to be completed in 2024.

    saanich.ca

  • The Greater Victoria School District (SD61) is offering two free separate three-week Educational Assistant training programs in October and November. Although only some applicants will be offered a job after the training, applicants must be interested in working with SD61 and be able to accept a Monday to Friday position upon completion of the program.

    victoriabuzz.com

  • Tacofino, a Mexican-inspired chain restaurant, is planning to open in Langford this fall.

    cheknews.ca

  • Portage Mountain Cannabis, a new locally-owned cannabis store, has opened in Fort St. John this month.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The City of Fernie has been granted $19M in provincial and federal funding to build a facility that will create 100 childcare spaces and 27 units of affordable housing. Housing units will be prioritized for early childhood educators across the community. Construction is planned for the spring of 2024 with an anticipated opening date in the fall of 2024.

    fernie.ca

  • The Terrace and District Community Services Society is planning to begin construction this fall or next spring on a $26.3M youth and senior housing project in Terrace. The project involves a five-storey building containing a youth Foundry service on the ground floor and seniors rental housing on the remaining floors.

    terracestandard.com

  • Bulk Barn, a Canadian bulk foods store, is planning to reopen its Prince George location this month after being closed since April due to relocation issues. The store will be relocating from College Heights to River Point Plaza.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The City of Parksville has granted a development permit for a four-storey mixed use building in Parksville. The building plan includes 53 apartment units, accessible units, commercial space and underground parking.

    pqbnews.com

  • The North Island Community Health Centre opened in Port Hardy this month. The 3000 sq.ft. facility provides regular health care as well as extended medical and holistic treatments. Additional doctors and services will be offered this coming fall.

    northislandgazette.com
• Week of 2023-08-07 to 2023-08-11

  • The B.C. government is providing $5M to the Rick Hansen Foundation to support 15 communities to improve accessibility for people of all abilities. The funding will support the Rick Hansen Foundation BC Accessibility Grants Program and evaluate the accessibility of facilities, upgrades three sites and train municipal staff on accessibility.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $4M to the Beneficial Management Practices Program to support B.C. farmers and ranchers dealing with climate change and to support food security. Eligible projects include waste management, air quality control, emissions control, soil and riparian integrity, water quality and environmental impact projects.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $100M for 16 new 2 Billion Trees program contribution agreements to plant 56 million trees across Canada in the next few years, including in British Columbia. The Government of Canada is also providing $63.9M to plant 35 million trees across Canada to help restore wildfire-impacted forests and rehabilitate reserve lands damaged by previous wildfires.

    canada.ca

  • The Governments of Canada and British Columbia, and Bowen Island Municipality will provide over $2.1M in joint funding to improve drinking water infrastructure on Bowen Island. Work includes installing a watermain to connect two water systems, the replacement of culverts, and the installation of new fire hydrants and service connections.

    canada.ca

  • Construction is underway on a six-storey, 99-suite condominium building project in Esquimalt. The mid-rise will include one-to-three bedroom units, indoor and outdoor amenities, underground secure parking, and ground level commercial units that will be available for lease.

    citified.ca

  • The City of Victoria has approved the development of a $17M four-storey mixed-use building in downtown Victoria. The building will be 56,500 square feet, featuring retail and light manufacturing space on the ground floor and a self-storage warehouse in the rest of the building. Construction of the building is expected to begin in 2024.

    timescolonist.com

  • Foundry Victoria, a new mental health and substance-use services centre, is opening in downtown Victoria this September. The centre offers youth aged 12 to 24 with health and wellness services, including mental-health and addiction support, drop-in counselling, physical and sexual health care, youth and family peer support, and social services.

    cheknews.ca

  • BC Housing will be opening 36 units of market-rate rental housing at Quebec Street House in Prince George this September. The building will offer studio, 1- and 2-bedroom units for low-and-middle income households, with preference for those who work in Prince George or surrounding communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Hummingbird Lodge and Campground located at the Whitewater Ski Resort in Nelson is set to open in August. The new campground offers a 2-bedroom private suite, RV and forest tent camping, addressing the growing need for summer camping in the region.

    thenelsondaily.com

  • Northern Development has approved $947K for five projects in Northern B.C. The funding will be used towards infrastructure projects, including an equipment storage expansion, accessibility upgrades, machinery upgrades, renovations to an existing campground, and the installation of solar lights on city signs and pathways.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • Northern Development has approved $947K for five projects in Northern B.C. The funding will be used towards infrastructure projects, including an equipment storage expansion, accessibility upgrades, machinery upgrades, renovations to an existing campground, and the installation of solar lights on city signs and pathways.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • Northern Development has approved $947K for five projects in Northern B.C. The funding will be used towards infrastructure projects, including an equipment storage expansion, accessibility upgrades, machinery upgrades, renovations to an existing campground, and the installation of solar lights on city signs and pathways.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government announced the successful expansion of high-speed internet infrastructure in northern Kootenay Lake this month. The jointly funded $597K project brings reliable, high-speed internet access to more than 330 households and six communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Village of Burns Lake has awarded a contract to Western Industrial Contractors Ltd. to design and construct a new fire hall in Burns Lake. The new hall will be 30 per cent larger and will feature a new training room and locker areas. The $3.4M project is expected to be completed in 2024.

    burnslakelakesdistrictnews.com

  • OEB Breakfast Co., a breakfast chain restaurant, announced plans to open a new location in Victoria this upcoming fall.

    victorianow.com

  • The City of Kimberley has approved a development permit for the construction of two rental four-plexes in Lower Blarchmont. Each building will be two stories and have four two-bedroom units.

    kimberleybulletin.com

  • Forever 21, a clothing chain, is closing its Metrotown mall location in Burnaby soon. Forever 21 closed all Canadians stores in 2019 due to a bankruptcy and re-launched in Canada in 2020 and 2021.

    dailyhive.com

  • Lions Bay Coffee Company, a coffee company, has ceased all operations and closed its Burnaby café in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • Ramen Danbo, a Japanese restaurant, is opening in North Vancouver soon.

    dailyhive.com

  • Gordon Ramsay Burger, is opening at the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver in Coquitlam in the fall. Gordon Ramsay Steak is planning to open in River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond in 2024.

    dailyhive.com

  • The $10M Fraser Mills presentation centre is under construction and is opening in Coquitlam in December 2023. The centre will display the history and latest advancements in sustainable construction methods.

    urbanyvr.com

  • Sinclar Group Forest Products Ltd. has announced the curtailment of its Nechako Lumber mill in Vanderhoof, B.C, affecting 60 employees. The permanent production curtailment for the sawmill will transition it from two shifts to one shift, beginning October 30, 2023.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • The federal and provincial governments and the Hiy? ám? ta S?wx? wú7mesh Housing Society are providing $15M for 95 new affordable homes for families, elders and youth of the Squamish Nation. Construction of the homes is expected to be completed in summer 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $245M towards widening 2.6km of Highway 1 from Jumping Creek to the MacDonald snowshed, near Revelstoke. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $250,000 to 33 projects that support community connections and promote healthy lifestyles. Projects seek to address food security, mental health, creating a liveable income and poverty reduction. The community projects includes resources, workshops, webinars and action guides.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $7.2M to provide 14 townhouse-style homes to women and children leaving violence in Kamloops. The Kamloops and District Elizabeth Fry Society will operate the homes and provide annual operating funding of around $67,000.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has purchased Harmony House in Vancouver for $16.4M, allowing the senior residents in the 33-unit facility to remain in affordable rental housing. S.U.C.C.E.S.S, a non-profit social service organization, will own and operate the building, and continue to provide residents with assisted-living services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has completed a $5.2M four-storey apartment building with 48 new affordable rental homes for seniors in Vernon. The rentals provide seniors with affordable and accessible living near community amenities. The B.C. government will continue to provide $410,000 in annual operating funding.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $5M in a third round of funding to support the research and development of new technologies in the zero-emission vehicle sector. The new technologies in transportation include electric planes, motorcycles, and boats. CleanBC plans to support zero-emission transportation and clean energy jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Vancouver-based telecommunications company, Telus Corp., announced the company is eliminating 6,000 jobs to cut costs. The cuts will include 4,000 positions at its main Telus business and 2,000 at Telus International. It is unknown how many employees in British Columbia have been affected at this time.

    ctvnews.ca

  • The Métis Nation British Columbia is providing $1.64M over three years to Métis post-secondary institutions to strengthen the Michif language. An additional $145,000 in funding through the Métis scholarship will support Métis students with post-secondary education and skills training.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-07-31 to 2023-08-04

  • The B.C. government is providing $1.5M to establish a new Foundry centre in Powell River. The centre provides youth with health and wellness services, including mental-health and addiction support, drop-in counselling, physical and sexual health care, youth and family peer support and social services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The City of Kimberley has approved a development permit for a three-storey rental apartment complex in Kimberley. The building plan includes 39 units and 40 vehicle parking stalls.

    kimberleybulletin.com

  • The B.C. government has announced a new $30M program that will help Indigenous communities across B.C. build and strengthen local food systems. The Indigenous Food Sovereignty Program will support projects surrounding sustainable and traditional food production, community food security, and infrastructure investments.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Saveur, a fine dining restaurant in Victoria, permanently closed this month.

    victoriabuzz.com

  • Wild Wapiti Playschool, a childcare centre in Fernie, opened in June. The facility brings 24 licensed childcare spaces for children aged 1 to 5 years old, and features classrooms and an outdoor nature play space.

    e-know.ca

  • The Crisis Prevention Centre in Prince George has been selected to be a service provider for the 9-8-8 national suicide helpline that will go in effect in November. The crisis centre is planning to hire and train more staff to prepare for the anticipated demand in the upcoming winter.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • Habitat Conservation and Trust Foundation is funding $586K towards nine projects across northeast B.C. The funding will be used to purchase, restore, and enhance properties to protect important habitat for B.C.'s fish and wildlife.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The District of Houston has agreed to lease land to the Dze L’Kant Friendship Centre Society to build a daycare centre in Houston. Plans for the centre include care during the day, before and after school care, and pre-school care. Construction is expected to begin in 2024 and be complete by spring 2026.

    houston-today.com

  • Nicli Pizzeria & Bar opened a 60-seat restaurant in Vancouver in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • Vadapav Mirchi by Geeta, an Indian restaurant, opened in New Westminster in July. The restaurant is open Tuesday to Sundays.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Hard Bean Brunch Co., a restaurant specializing in breakfast, brunch and lunch, is expanding with two more locations in Metro Vancouver. The company plans to open a Langley location in mid-October and a Vancouver location in May 2024.

    dailyhive.com

  • Aisle 24, a zero-contact grocery store is opening several locations in B.C. over the next two to three years, with plans of at least five locations in the Lower Mainland including Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond and Coquitlam. The self-serve grocery will be open 24/7 and have no cashiers.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Hudson's Bay Company, a Canadian department store is permanently closing its store in Burnaby's Lougheed Town Centre, in December 2023.

    burnabynow.com

  • Emirates Airlines is recruiting flight attendants and cabin crew. Emirates is holding a job fair on August 11 at the Hilton Vancouver Metrotown in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Construction has begun on a $3M water reservoir at Big White Ski Resort, located near Kelowna. Construction, being undertaken by Ecora Engineering and Resource Group is expected to be complete by October 2023.

    castanet.net

  • The City of Kamloops has approved a development permit for a six-storey rental apartment building in North Kamloops. The building plan includes 98 apartments, vehicle parking stalls, bicycle stalls, a patio, a gym, and commercial space on the ground floor.

    kamloopsthisweek.com

  • Catalyst Paper, a subsidiary of Richmond, B.C. based Paper Excellence, is extending the curtailment of its Catalyst Crofton pulp mill until the end of August. Operations have been curtailed since June 30. Approximately 450 employees have been affected, including pulp, paper, and shipping operations. The company has cited low global demand for pulp and paper products for the curtailment.

    oakbaynews.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $418,000 to extend the Friendship Trail in Pemberton. The trail connects residents to schools, workplaces, and essential services using active transportation. Project is expected to be completed in 2024.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $2.4M for nine projects to improve public spaces and enhance tourism experiences in Vancouver. Upgrades include accessibility renovations, seating, landscaping, and pedestrian/cycling routes. The funding is expected to create over 80 new jobs and attract over 67,000 visitors to Vancouver.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $20.8M to Burnaby businesses and organizations in biotechnology, life sciences, alternative energy and clean technology. The funding will help recipients commercialize new products, acquire advanced technologies, increase sales and provide training opportunities. The funding is expected to support 284 jobs.

    canada.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments and BC Transit are providing $395.5M to support the transition to a battery-electric bus fleet. BC Transit will acquire 115 battery-electric buses and install 134 charging stations across B.C.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $105,000 to the BC Hepatitis Network to co-lead a prevention strategy and a hepatitis-elimination roadmap with the BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS and the BC Centre for Disease Control. The roadmap includes screening, treatment, and community-based prevention and education.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $308,000 to 68 organizations to engage with racialized people and 2SLGTBQIA+ communities to help shape new anti-racism legislation. Engagement sessions will run until September 2023 to collect input from racialized peoples. The Anti-Racism Act will introduced in 2024, with co-development with Indigenous Peoples.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • A new community shuttle bus that will provide service to residents is now in operation in the Village of Granisles. The bus has a set schedule of three round trips a week, driving commuters to and from Burns Lake, Houston, and Smithers.

    houston-today.com

  • The B.C. government is providing a $7M grant to the Easter Seals Camp Shawnigan to revitalize its facilities in Shawnigan Lake. The facilities will be upgraded and expanded to better accommodate year-round retreats for children, youth, and adults with disabilities. Construction is expected to begin in summer 2025 with completion in 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Construction on a new elementary school has begun in South Langford. The school will accommodate about 460 students from kindergarten to grade five, and feature a full-sized soccer pitch, 20 learning spaces, and a daycare. The school is expected to be completed in 2025.

    citified.ca

  • The College of New Caledonia is launching a new practical nursing program at its Quesnel campus in the fall of 2024 to address the nursing shortage in Northern B.C. The program is a two-year diploma program and prepares graduates to practice in a variety of health care settings upon successful completion of a national licensing exam.

    mycariboonow.com

  • The College of New Caledonia is launching a new practical nursing program at its Burns Lake campus in the fall of 2024 to address the nursing shortage in Northern B.C. The program is a two-year diploma program and prepares graduates to practice in a variety of health care settings upon successful completion of a national licensing exam.

    mybulkleylakesnow.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $900M to fund work to decommission the Lind Creek Dam in Greenwood. After the dam's removal, restoration work will commence to allow fish to access the creek for rearing and spawning. A new replacement reservoir and water-treatment facility will be built as a separate project.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • D Spot Dessert Café, a dessert chain, is planning to open a café in Delta soon. The company has plans to open future locations in Burnaby, Richmond, Vancouver, Victoria, and Kelowna.

    dailyhive.com

  • Sungiven Foods, a grocery chain, opened a third Burnaby location in July. Sungiven has several locations in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $480,000 in the BC Land Matching Program for 2023-2024, which has leased more than 4,500 hectares of land for food production. The program is delivered by the Young Agrarians resource network for farmers and matches new farmers with land to help grow existing farms and support B.C.'s food security.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $7M to the Immigrant Employment Council of B.C. (IEC-BC) to support programs for newcomers and immigrants entering the Canadian labour market. IEC-BC will provide job seekers with training and metnorship, and help connect them with employers from small to large businesses.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Hoy’s Wonton House, a Chinese restaurant, has permanently closed in July in Vancouver. The restaurant has been open for 40 years.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-07-24 to 2023-07-28

  • The B.C. government is providing $7.5M to United Way to expand regional food hubs and provide affordable local food to residents in the Lower Mainland, Interior, and on Vancouver Island. The funding includes meal distribution, community gardens, an app to connect partners, improving infrastructure and hiring more people.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Tesla Motors will be opening a new sales, service, and delivery centre in Langford this month. The facility will help serve current Tesla drivers on Vancouver Island needing repairs on their vehicles, as well as offer chances for potential buyers to view Tesla's variety of vehicles.

    victorianow.com

  • Construction has started for the Tenth Street Campus Indigenous Gathering Space in Nelson. The space will serve as both an Indigenous cultural gathering and ceremonial space for the community. It will also host community events and learning related to Indigenous history. Construction is planned to be complete for October.

    thenelsondaily.com

  • Hullo, a Nanaimo-based ferry passenger service, is scheduled to launch on August 14. The new service will operate four daily departures each way between downtown Nanaimo and downtown Vancouver, with travel times lasting 70 minutes.

    globalnews.ca

  • The Smithers Primary Care Clinic has opened in Smithers this month to reduce the number of patients accessing the Bulkley Valley District Hospital for non-urgent care needs. The clinic will provide bookable appointments for patients without a primary care physician, where they will be seen by either a nurse practitioner or local physician.

    mybulkleylakesnow.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $4M to replace aging sewage infrastructure on the Songhees Nation reserve in Esquimalt. About 1,400 metres of pipe in the sewer system will be replaced, which also includes installation of new maintenance holes, catch basins, sewer-inspection chambers, and sanitary-service connections.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Construction has started on 13 affordable rental homes in Castlegar. The $7.5M housing development will prioritize low- to moderate-income families, seniors, individuals, and people living with disabilities. Construction is expected to be complete in 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Construction has begun on phase one of the new Caribou Crossing development in Prince George. The development will add over 80,000 square feet of commercial retail space and is expected to have a gas station, convenience store, drive-thru restaurants, and other commercial stores. Phase one of construction is expected to be complete in the fall of 2023.

    ckpgtoday.ca

  • A community-owned micro gas station has opened in the Doig River First Nation this month. The station will help advance the economy of the Doig First Nation, allowing additional revenue streams and supporting the cultural and social aspects of Indigenous peoples.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The Collective Wine Bar & Kitchen, a restaurant located in Victoria, permanently closed this month due to difficult economic conditions.

    victoriabuzz.com

  • Construction will begin soon on the 28,000 square foot Happy Valley Road retail centre in south Langford. The project will include 12 commercial retail units, along with a daycare space and rooftop play area for children.

    citified.ca

  • Island Health is preparing to build a new long-term care facility in Campbell River. The new proposed three-storey facility will bring a total of 153 long-term care beds to the region. Construction is expected to begin in 2025 and be complete in 2027.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Career Centre in Parksville is launching Pathway to Trades, a fully-funded program that will prepare youth aged 16 to 29 for entry level employment in the electrical and carpentry trades. The program will be delivered in partnership with Vancouver Island University and will provide eight weeks of skills training and four weeks of paid work experience with a local employer.

    pqbnews.com

  • The Lheidli T’enneh First Nation has begun construction this month on a new childcare centre in Prince George. The facility will include spaces for 24 infants and toddlers, 25 for children aged three years to kindergarten, and 26 for school-aged children. Construction is expected to be completed in fall 2024.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • Hokkaido Ramen Santouka, a Japanese restaurant, is planning to open in Richmond in the fall.

    dailyhive.com

  • Oshi Nori, a sushi bar, is planning to open in Vancouver in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Dolce Amore, a gelato shop, is opening in North Vancouver in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • Toloache Mexican Kitchen, a Mexican restaurant, has opened in Vancouver in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • Bar Barvo, a seafood restaurant is opening a 1,500 sq. ft. eatery in Vancouver in August. The restaurant plans to add a 30-seat patio next year.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Spencer Building Carrier Hotel, a data centre in Vancouver's Harbour Centre, is starting construction in August 2023 and plans to be operational by late 2024. The 42,000 sq. ft. data centre supports the Cascadia fibre artery connection between Vancouver and Seattle, including IT infrastructure and connectivity services to enterprises, cloud providers, and service providers.

    dailyhive.com

  • Tesla is planning to build a 60,000 sq. ft. delivery and service centre in Port Coquitlam. This will be Tesla's primary location in Metro Vancouver, and includes sales, service, regional storage and a distribution centre for vehicles and parts. The Tesla facility plans to hire 80 employees, including technicians and managers.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is investing $20M to build a new wastewater treatment plant near the Village of Daajing Giids in Haida Gwaii. In addition to improving wastewater capacity, the new plant will help protect the health of residents and nearby ecosystems and support the Haida Nation's marine aquaculture industry.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government provided $4.1M for 89 new temporary supportive housing spaces in Vancouver’s downtown eastside. The facility provides daily meals, harm reduction and health care, cultural programming and community-based services. The two locations will be in place for at least three years to address homelessness.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Pathways Addictions Resource Centre, a non-profit located in Penticton, will close on July 31. The closure is due to lack of financial support. The centre has been open for almost 50 years. Pathways serves around 1,000 clients annually including counselling and drug-use prevention awareness in schools.

    cbc.ca

  • Mercer International, a Vancouver based forest products company, is curtailing their Castlegar pulp mill for one month from July 29 until August 28 due to backlogs from the Vancouver port strike. Railcar availability has been reduced due to the labour dispute, which is the mill’s main mode of transporting pulp. According to Mercer, there are currently 430 employees at the mill.

    woodbusiness.ca

  • The RCMP is recruiting a variety of jobs, including police dispatchers, administrative/clerical positions, and information processors.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Kelowna is planning to spend $2.05B on infrastructures projects over the next ten years, including transportation, buildings, airport improvements and parks. The infrastructure will support the city, which expects to add an additional 40,000 new residents by 2040.

    castanet.net

  • Construction will soon begin on a $300M 1.4km water supply tunnel project in Vancouver's Stanley Park, which will replace the existing 90-year-old watermain. Construction is expected to be complete in 2029.

    globalnews.ca

  • The Government of Canada has provided $2.16M the Regional District of North Okanagan to build a new childcare centre in Lumby. The new childcare centre will have a capacity for 54 children. Construction is expected to begin in 2024.

    castanet.net

  • The B.C. government is providing $10.5M through the Securing Small Business Rebate Program to support up to $2,000 per business for the cost of repairs due to vandalism, and up to $1,000 for vandalism prevention. The funding supports installation of security cameras, gates, graffiti cleaning, and repairs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $150,000 to the BC Cattlemen's Association (BCCA) for the Access to Feed program, to support B.C. farmers and ranchers facing shortages of hay and feed. BCAA will match sellers of hay and feed with farmers and producers.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $271.3M for a new centre at Vancouver Community College, providing students the opportunity to learn electric vehicle automotive trades. The eight-storey building will include mass timber, and is expected to create over 2,000 direct and indirect jobs during construction. Construction is expected to be complete by 2027.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1.5M to establish Foundry Vernon, a new foundry centre for youth. The centre provides youth with health and wellness services, including mental-health and addiction support, drop-in counselling, physical and sexual health care, youth and family peer support and social services.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-07-17 to 2023-07-21

  • The federal, provincial and municipal governments are providing $950,000 to upgrade the heating and ventilation system at the West Vancouver Memorial Library. The upgrades will replace the existing gas heating with hydronic baseboard heating to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the building's energy efficiency.

    canada.ca

  • Sephora, a beauty retailer, will be opening a new location at Millstream Village shopping center in Langford. The new location is hiring a variety of positions, including beauty advisors and team leads.

    victoriabuzz.com

  • A 12,5000 square foot health and wellness centre in Sooke on T’sou-ke First Nation land began construction this month. Along with providing health care services to members of the T'sou-ke Nation, the facility will also serve as a community space and resource hub. Construction is expected to be complete in mid to late 2024.

    citified.ca

  • Zellers will be opening pop-up stores in Victoria and Nanaimo by August 11. These stores will be located inside the Hudson's Bay store in Nanaimo's Woodgrove Centre and Victoria's Bay Centre.

    cheknews.ca

  • Zellers will be opening a pop-up store in Prince George. The pop-up will be located inside the Hudson's Bay store in Parkwood Place and aims to open by August 11.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The B.C. government is contributing $750K towards several value-added wood and manufacturing projects on Vancouver Island. Three organizations will receive funding through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund to plan and launch manufacturing projects that are expected to create jobs in the communities of Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, and Gold River.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Teck Trail has received $10M from the B.C. government's CleanBC Industry Fund for its carbon capture pilot project in Trail. Construction of the plant is underway and is expected to begin operations later this year, where it will capture carbon dioxide at a rate of one tonne per day.

    castlegarnews.com

  • Island Health is launching the Health Career Access Program to address the shortage of health care assistants on Vancouver Island. The program allows individuals who are interested in the health care sector to work in a non-direct care role, while receiving paid training through one of Vancouver Island's post-secondary institutions.

    peninsulanewsreview.com

  • The University of Victoria is launching a new full-time French program in September to address the shortage and need of French teachers in Victoria. The French Post-Degree Professional Program is a 16-month intensive program, structured for teacher candidates to take all courses in French and complete both practicum placements in French Immersion classes.

    vicnews.com

  • Into the Woods Early Learning Child Care Studio, a childcare centre in Qualicum Beach, has opened this month. The facility features 37 licensed child care spaces for infants and children up to five years old.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is contributing $8.5M to build 76 affordable homes for seniors with low and middle incomes in Gibsons. Construction will be done in two phases starting this month, with a three-storey addition to an existing building first, followed by demolition of an old building and the construction of a new four-storey building.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • A new 87-unit affordable housing development is now open in Parksville. The newly-opened building provides homes for families, seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities with low to moderate incomes. The project received approximately $30M in joint funding from the Government of Canada, the B.C. government, and Ballenas Housing Society.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • A new clinic for maternity care has opened at Cariboo Memorial Hospital in Williams Lake. The new clinic will improve access to maternity care for pregnant and expecting parents and is also expected to help attract and retain health care providers in the area.

    interiorhealth.ca

  • Thompson Rivers University's Williams Lake campus is offering 16 fully-funded seats in their Women in Trades Exploratory Program this year. The program is a 12-week introductory course that allows women to participate in various Red Seal trade areas.

    wltribune.com

  • Northern Health is opening a temporary overdose prevention site to ensure ongoing access to overdose prevention and harm reduction services in Dawson Creek. A mobile overdose prevention service is in place to address the current need until services begin at the temporary site.

    northernhealth.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $5M to six B.C. organizations specializing in attracting people into the skilled trades sector. The funding will allow organizations to provide new and enhanced programming to individuals entering the trades, along with improved support for individuals completing their pre-apprentice training and apprenticeships.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is spending $25.1M on replacing the Highway 3 Jaffray Overhead and Big Sand bridges in the East Kootenays. The bridges carry an average of 6,000 vehicles per day, serving an important route from the Alberta border to Hope. Construction is currently underway and is expected to be complete in 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Pedal Bros. Cycle Shop, a recumbent bike speciality store, opened in Kamloops in July. This is only store in B.C. that specializes in recumbent trikes.

    castanetkamloops.net

  • LifeLabs has opened a new patient care centre in The Shops at Polson Park mall in Vernon.

    castanet.net

  • Zellers will be opening a pop-up store in The Bay in Penticton. The pop-up shop aims to open in July as part of Zellers' pilot project.

    castanet.net

  • Model Bean Coffee, a Colombian-style café, is planning to open in Kelowna in July. Model Bean Coffee already sells their Colombian coffee beans on their online shop.

    castanet.net

  • Sweet Talk Donuts, a donut shop, is planning to open a 1,000 sq. ft. shop in Port Moody in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Chicha San Chen, a Taiwanese-themed bubble tea shop, opened in Richmond in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Port Moody is hiring a variety of positions, including planning and development, civilian police work, and recreational instructors.

    dailyhive.com

  • On July 14, the Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, representing tens of thousands of actors, has joined the Writer’s Guild of America strike action. The strike has resulted in a number of productions being halted or delayed.

    cbc.ca

  • The City of Penticton is providing $1M to three projects to support local programs that address youth crime and risk factors for vulnerable youth.

    castanet.net

  • The governments of Canada and the United Kingdom have signed a new Canada–United Kingdom (UK) Youth Mobility Arrangement. The agreement allows more Canadians and British youth ages 18 to 35 to participate in reciprocal work opportunities in each other's countries for up to 3 years. The new arrangement will start in 2024.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is introducing a new regulation effective December 2023 to limit single-use plastic items with the goal of reducing plastic waste and pollution to the environment. As part of the plan, $40M will go to CleanBC Plastics Action Fund to support B.C.-based innovators to reduce plastic waste.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3M to expand access to Mobile Integrated Crisis Response (MICR) teams to nine communities: Abbotsford, Port Coquitlam/Coquitlam, Burnaby, Chilliwack, Penticton, Vernon, Squamish, Prince Rupert and the Westshore in Victoria. MICR teams specializes in crisis-responses with health care professionals supporting those in need of mental-health assistance.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3M to expand access to Mobile Integrated Crisis Response (MICR) teams to nine communities: Abbotsford, Port Coquitlam/Coquitlam, Burnaby, Chilliwack, Penticton, Vernon, Squamish, Prince Rupert and the Westshore in Victoria. MICR teams specializes in crisis-responses with health care professionals supporting those in need of mental-health assistance.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3M to expand access to Mobile Integrated Crisis Response (MICR) teams to nine communities: Abbotsford, Port Coquitlam/Coquitlam, Burnaby, Chilliwack, Penticton, Vernon, Squamish, Prince Rupert and the Westshore of Victoria. MICR teams specializes in crisis-responses with health care professionals supporting those in need of mental-health assistance.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $16.8M to expand NextRide technology in B.C.'s public transit system. NextRide uses state-of-the-art technology including Automatic Vehicle Location hardware and Computer Aided Dispatch software to improve data collection for public transit systems in 638 buses in 21 regional transit systems. Improvements also include public transit accessibility, automatic voice annunciators, and visual displays in buses.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $44M to over 70 projects in 63 communities to strengthen resilience against climate-related hazards including flooding, drought, wildfire and heat. The funding supports risk mapping, assessments, planning, purchasing equipment, community education and small-scale structural projects.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing nearly $6M in annual funding to Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) groups to support critical search and rescue operations in the backcountry. The funding supports the GSAR groups with life-saving rescue equipment, essential training, protective equipment, and operational and administration costs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada and the City of Richmond are providing $6.8M to expand the cycling network in Richmond's City Centre. The expansion includes the construction of four kilometres of new protected bike lanes, multi-use pathways, crosswalks and lighting features.

    canada.ca

  • Banana Leaf, a Malaysian restaurant, has opened in Surrey. This is their fifth restaurant in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The rehabilitation of the Halston Bridge in Kamloops has begun. Halston Bridge carries approximately 23,000 vehicles per day and connects Highway 5 North with North Kamloops. Construction is expected to be complete in spring 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Win Win Chick-N has closed its restaurant in Vancouver, due to issues with their current location. Win Win Chick-N plans to re-open after securing a new location.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-07-10 to 2023-07-14

  • A Hello Kitty themed café is opening in Vancouver in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Tesq'escen' First Nation has received approval to build an Aboriginal Head Start Child Care Centre in 100 Mile House. The centre will offer childcare for Indigenous, Métis, and Inuit families living off-reserve and in the surrounding area. The centre will provide between 34 to 45 childcare seats and will begin operations by March of 2026.

    100milefreepress.net

  • L&C French Bakery, a new locally-owned bakery offering French pastries and confections, has opened in Nelson this month.

    thenelsondaily.com

  • Artemis Gold Inc., a gold development company, has received federal Fisheries Act authorization to begin in-stream construction work on the Blackwater Mine near Vanderhoof. The mine is scheduled to start operations in 2024, producing 321,000 ounces of gold annually for the first five years.

    canadianminingjournal.com

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $18M to support the construction of a new childcare facility in North Cowichan. The facility will provide 158 new childcare spaces. Construction will start in early 2024 and is expected to be completed by fall 2025.

    cowichanvalleycitizen.com

  • Construction has started on 31 rental homes, which will address the shortage of affordable housing in Hazelton. The $7M three-story building will prioritize seniors, people living with disabilities, and Indigenous members of the Gitxsan Nation and Wet’suwet’en First Nation.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $5M in funding to the Tseshaht First Nation on central Vancouver Island to make land purchases. The funding will be used by the Nation to identify parcels of land for future housing developments that will help address housing shortages in the region.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Construction is underway on a 56-unit affordable rental housing development in Qualicum Beach. The project is expected to cater to families, seniors, and individuals with low to moderate incomes. Residents are expected to move into their new homes in early 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Construction has begun on the redevelopment of Cariboo Memorial Hospital in Williams Lake. The $367M project will improve health care access for the Secwépemc, T? ilhqot’in and Dãkelh Dené First Nations and people living in the Cariboo-Chilcotin area. Construction is expected to finish in 2026, with further renovations to be completed in 2029.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Malaspina Daycare, a childcare centre in Prince George, has opened this month. The facility features 83 licensed childcare spaces and 2 classes of 20 preschool children on a part-time basis.

    ckpgtoday.ca

  • BC Hydro is planning seismic upgrades at the Ladore and Strathcona dams in Campbell River. The upgrades will allow the dams to continue safely passing water downstream following a major earthquake or flood event. If approved, construction is set to begin in early 2025 and finish by 2028 with a forecasted 180 jobs needed.

    timescolonist.com

  • Northern Health is providing 10 new complex care housing spaces in the Ksan Society's Sonder House, a modular supportive housing development in Terrace. Services will also be offered for individuals facing overlapping mental health, substance use, and health challenges. Eight Northern Health positions are to be filled at the facility.

    terracestandard.com

  • Five new physicians are slated to practice in Terrace by November, followed by an additional five family physicians and four specialists in 2024. Northern Health continues to seek physicians and nurse practitioners, and several incentives and supports are in place to ensure employee retention and stability in healthcare.

    northernhealth.ca

  • Canfor Pulp is temporarily curtailing the Northwood Pulp Mill in Prince George as of July 13, 2023, the curtailment affects approximately 475 employees at the mill. The downtime will remove 11,000 tonnes of market kraft pulp per week. The curtailment is due to limited storage space for pulp products that cannot be transported overseas due to the ongoing labour disputes at British Columbia ports.

    .biv.com

  • Hellcrust Pizza has opened a restaurant in Vancouver in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • Oretachi Curry, a Japanese-themed restaurant, is opening in Richmond soon.

    dailyhive.com

  • District Noodle House, a Vietnamese restaurant, has opened in Vancouver in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • North Shore Bike Park has opened a 65,000 sq. ft. indoor bike park in North Vancouver's Capilano Mall. The facility is B.C.'s largest indoor bike park with terrain for cyclists of all skill levels and styles of cycling.

    cbc.ca

  • AEC Charters, a shuttle bus company, has begun offering transportation services from King George Station in Surrey to the Abbottsford International Airport. The company operates six scheduled trips each way throughout the day.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $2.5M to Ask Wellness Society to purchase the Columbia Motor Inn, to preserve 24 units of affordable housing for people transitioning out of homelessness in Kamloops. BC Housing is providing an additional $2.7M for renovations, fees and costs, which is expected to extend the building's life for another 40 years.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $29.2M for seismic upgrades to Sir Wilfred Grenfell Elementary in Vancouver. The upgrades will allow for a capacity of 465 students. The design phase will begin in fall 2023, with completion by fall 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $4M to construct a new hybrid mass timber commercial office building in Vancouver. The 10 storey building will be constructed using advanced timber materials. Construction is expected to be complete in 2025.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government and Rogers Communications have provided over $1.28M to complete the construction of cellular towers on Highway 95 in the Kootenay region. The completion of this project provides cellular connectivity to improve the public safety of residents and visitors to the area.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and the Canadian Mental Health Association are introducing Peer Assisted Care Teams for Kamloops, Prince George and the Comox Valley. The teams will provide support for those with mental-health and substance use issues. The teams are expected to be selected this fall and there are further plans to develop Indigenous-led crisis response teams.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and the Canadian Mental Health Association are introducing Peer Assisted Care Teams for Kamloops, Prince George and the Comox Valley. The teams will provide support for those with mental-health and substance use issues. The teams are expected to be selected this fall and there are further plans to develop Indigenous-led crisis response teams.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and the Canadian Mental Health Association are introducing Peer Assisted Care Teams for Kamloops, Prince George and the Comox Valley. The teams will provide support for those with mental-health and substance use issues. The teams are expected to be selected this fall and there are further plans to develop Indigenous-led crisis response teams.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and the Canadian Mental Health Association are introducing Peer Assisted Care Teams for Kamloops, Prince George and the Comox Valley. The teams will provide support for those with mental-health and substance use issues. The teams are expected to be selected this fall and there are further plans to develop Indigenous-led crisis response teams.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is constructing a temporary 50-bed shelter in Abbotsford, which will operate for approximately 18 months, while a new permanent shelter location is being determined. Construction of the temporary shelter is expected to be complete by the end of 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has purchased a building in the Township of Langley that will provide 15 transition house beds and a two-bedroom second-stage housing unit. The transition homes support short-term housing for women and their children leaving violence or abusive situations. Construction of the building is expected to be complete by fall 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $9M to the Town of Osoyoos to improve drinking water through a new water treatment plant. The infrastructure upgrades include construction of a raw-water line to treat groundwater.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has introduced the $20M Agricultural Water Infrastructure program to support B.C. agricultural producers by improving water management and water supply for crops and livestock. The program is open to B.C. farmers, ranchers, agricultural producers, Indigenous producers, local governments, and agricultural and conservation groups.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $239,765 over 2 years to the University of British Columbia to offer a free online course to early child educators (ECEs) on Indigenous perspectives and world views. The course will support ECEs with delivering culturally appropriate early learning and child care to Indigenous families and children.

    canada.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $1.1M to improve ventilation in six Delta School District schools. The improvements include rooftop unit replacements and improved air ventilation at schools.

    canada.ca

  • Teal Jones, a Surrey based forest products company, curtailed its Surrey lumber operations for seven days. The company has cited low log inventory, high stumpage fees and current lumber markets for the curtailment. No information has been released on the number of employees affected.

    tealjones.com
• Week of 2023-07-03 to 2023-07-07

  • The Government of Canada is providing $13M to seven businesses in the Lower Mainland to support clean technology and zero waste businesses. One of the recipients, Anaconda Systems Ltd., aims to turn waste into organic fertilizer in 10 days, a fraction of the typical 90 to 180 day process. It is expected that the funding will create over 300 jobs in British Columbia.

    canada.ca

  • The Staybridge Suites hotel has opened in Dawson Creek. The hotel offers options for extended or short stays, as well as complimentary breakfast, a pool, a fitness centre, and meeting facilities.

    cjdctv.com

  • The Makerie, a craft and coffee bar in downtown Prince George, will permanently close in late July due to rental increases and rising costs.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The governments of Canada and B.C. are jointly funding $293M towards the redevelopment of the Belleville Terminal in downtown Victoria. The new ferry terminal is expected to support $257M in visitor spending and 3,200 jobs a year over the next 20 years. Construction is expected to be completed for the 2028 tourism season.

    canada.ca

  • The Regional District of the Kootenay Boundary has been granted $690K to promote FireSmart awareness. The funding will help the district provide community education, develop community wildfire resiliency plans, and hire wildfire mitigation specialists to perform FireSmart home hazard assessments throughout the region.

    mykootenaynow.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $5.5M to support seven infrastructure upgrade projects in the Central Interior and Northern regions of British Columbia.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $5.5M to support seven infrastructure upgrade projects in the Central Interior and Northern regions of British Columbia.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $5.5M to support seven infrastructure upgrade projects in the Central Interior and Northern regions of British Columbia.

    canada.ca

  • Construction is now underway on the Northern Secwépemc Cultural Centre in 108 Mile Ranch. The centre will serve as a space for community members to share traditional knowledge and culture through a variety of programs.

    100milefreepress.net

  • Construction has started on 18 affordable rental homes for seniors in Valemount. The single-level building will include 16 one-bedroom units and two two-bedroom homes. Occupancy is expected for summer 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • School District No. 28 Quesnel, School District No. 91 Nechako Lakes, and School District No. 57 Prince George have been granted a combined 20 seats in the College of New Caledonia’s Early Childhood Education program, to ease early childhood educator shortages in the region. The program allows students who have an interest in early childhood education to take courses in grade 11 or 12.

    mynechakovalleynow.com

  • School District No. 28 Quesnel, School District No. 91 Nechako Lakes, and School District No. 57 Prince George have been granted a combined 20 seats in the College of New Caledonia’s Early Childhood Education program, to ease early childhood educator shortages in the region. The program allows students who have an interest in early childhood education to take courses in grade 11 or 12.

    mynechakovalleynow.com

  • Construction is now underway on a new $3.7M childcare centre in West Quesnel. The facility is expected to open in September 2023 and will provide 57 childcare spaces.

    mycariboonow.com

  • The North Coast Ecology Centre, an educational facility, has opened in Prince Rupert. The centre offers exhibits for locals and visitors to learn about the aquatic species of B.C.'s north coast, and the conservation efforts being undertaken to protect them.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $750,000 to the City of Port Coquitlam to undertake upgrades to Veterans Park, including creating a new community plaza, new pedestrian pathways, relocating the cenotaph, and installing safety and lighting upgrades.

    canada.ca

  • A new childcare centre began construction in Colwood this month. The centre will be the first Indigenous-specific, trauma-informed childcare facility in the region and is expected to open in the winter of 2025. 48 licensed childcare spaces and 25 before and after school care spaces will be available.

    ctvnews.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $8.1M to advance ocean technology, life sciences, and clean energy on Vancouver Island. Seven organizations will receive funding to create new jobs and research new technologies. Funding is expected to create over 800 jobs and provide training opportunities for over 500 British Columbians.

    canada.ca

  • The Tse'k'wa Heritage Society has received $400K in funding to aid the development of the Tse'k'wa National Historic Site in Charlie Lake. The funding will be used over the next three years to help the society build a visitor-accessible museum, interpretive centre, and gathering space for Indigenous peoples.

    energeticcity.ca

  • Provectus Biofuels, Inc. has signed a partnership agreement with the Tsay Keh Dene Nation to develop a bio-refinery in the District of Mackenzie. The bio-refinery would be the first of its kind, and could provide up to 100 jobs and produce an estimated 200 barrels of gasoline per day.

    districtofmackenzie.ca

  • The Northern Rockies Fire Rescue Department is seeking paid on-call firefighters to provide fire and emergency response services in Fort Nelson.

    alaskahighwaynews.ca

  • Zilla's Donuts, a donut shop, is opening in Chilliwack in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • Neuron Mobility, an e-scooter and e-bike manufacturer, has deployed e-scooters and e-bikes for rent in Coquitlam, as part of B.C. government's pilot project until December 2024. In the future, Neuron aims to increase their fleets to 100 e-bikes and 300 e-scooters. Neuron's operations in Coquitlam are expected to create 25 jobs.

    dailyhive.com

  • Lee's Donuts is opening a temporary pop-up shop in Vancouver from July 10 until the end of August. Lee's Donuts is also planning to open a 1,700 sq. ft. shop in downtown Vancouver in 2023.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Smithe, a mixed-use tower in downtown Vancouver, is converting 30,000 sq. ft. of office space to a 36 suite hotel. Otto's House will be a digital hotel, with guests accessing the main entrance and rooms via the Operto Guest Technology smartphone app. The tower where the hotel will be located was completed two years ago and the office space has been vacant due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Ooknakane Friendship Centre in Penticton opens on July 14. The centre promotes, develops, and delivers accessible programs and services that support Indigenous peoples living in urban areas.

    castanet.net

  • Thompson Rivers University, located in Kamloops, renewed its international partnership with China's Tianjin University of Technology for another 9 years to facilitate continued opportunities to students to study aboard and engage in joint research endeavours.

    castanetkamloops.net

  • Around 7,400 workers from the International Longshore & Warehouse Union Canada (ILWU) went on strike at the Port of Vancouver and other sites on July 1, affecting more than 35 terminals in British Columbia. A prolonged strike may result in severe supply chain disruptions across a number of industries.

    vancouversun.com

  • Catalyst Paper, a subsidiary of Richmond, B.C. based Paper Excellence, will curtail operations at its Catalyst-Crofton pulp mill for 30 days in July as of June 30. Approximately 450 workers will be affected by the mill’s shutdown. The company has cited low global demand for pulp and paper products for the curtailment.

    mycowichanvalleynow.com

  • HTEC, a supplier of hydrogen for fuel, opened a new retail hydrogen refilling station at a 7-Eleven site in Kelowna on June 30. HTEC plans to open more stations in Canada to provide cleaner transportation options.

    htec.ca

  • A new 150-room Marriott International hotel is planned to be built in Chilliwack. The 12.4-acre development will be the largest hotel in Chilliwack. Construction will begin in fall 2023 and is expected to be complete in summer 2025.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $100,000 for mental-health and substance-use programming for South Asian people in Metro Vancouver. Funding will support three part-time outreach workers and engage with South Asian peoples who are homeless or at risk of being homeless. These services are expected to support up to 75 people who suffer substance abuse and up to 200 members of their families.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $459,000 to the City of Richmond to renovate London Farm, a historical site. The funding will upgrade the space including new signage, pathway improvements, and a new boardwalk.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2023-06-26 to 2023-06-30

  • Fraser Health is spending $211M to build a new care community, including adding 200 long-term care beds and enhanced community services in Abbotsford. Construction is expected to begin in 2025 and be complete in 2027.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $12M to the BC SPCA to build four new rescue shelters in Vancouver, Duncan, Prince George and Fort St. John to meet the demand to help abandoned or mistreated pets. Funding will be used to either replace or upgrade current facilities in the communities that are closed, outdated or ill-designed for modern animal care.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $12M to the BC SPCA to build four new rescue shelters in Vancouver, Duncan, Prince George and Fort St. John to meet the demand to help abandoned or mistreated pets. Funding will be used to either replace or upgrade current facilities in the communities that are closed, outdated or ill-designed for modern animal care.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $590M in funding to Graham Design Builders LP to design and build the new Dawson Creek and District Hospital. The hospital will strengthen and improve health care service for residents in the region. Construction of the facility will begin in July and is expected to be ready for patients by 2027.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Point Ellice House and Gardens in Victoria has reopened to the public on June 24 following a change in management and funding from the B.C. government. The site offers self-guided tours of the house, and exhibits on the rich history of Victoria and British Columbia.

    saanichnews.com

  • BC Ferries will provide more than 4,700 additional sailings this summer, but warns customers to expect cancellations due to staff shortages. BC Ferries is seeking to hire more skilled mariners for all its sailing locations, particularly in Swartz Bay and Nanaimo, to mitigate impacts to customer service.

    cheknews.ca

  • The B.C. government is granting $375K over three years towards the expansion of mental health services for children and youth at the Vancouver Island Counselling Centre for Immigrants and Refugees in Victoria. Funding will help the centre provide counselling services specifically designed to meet the unique needs of young individuals.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Fridays on Front, a food festival, is returning to New Westminster from July 7 to 21 and August 11 to 25 on Friday evenings. Each week, the event features themed celebrations, food vendors, live entertainment, children's activities and an artisan market.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $10M to BC Hydro to expand its Energy Conservation Assistance Program to include free, publicly funded portable air conditioners. BC Hydro expects to install 8,000 air-conditioning units over the next three years for people who have low incomes and are medically vulnerable to heat.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $20M for the Fraser Valley Flood Mitigation program, to increase the province's food security. Funding will support farm projects and community-scale projects to protect and restore local ecosystems and wetlands including culvert improvements, embankment stabilization and crop diversification.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $570,020 to improve air ventilation at Simon Cunningham Elementary School in Surrey. Funding includes upgrades to the digital control system and ventilation improvements to heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $12M to the BC SPCA to build four new rescue shelters in Vancouver, Duncan, Prince George and Fort St. John to meet the demand to help abandoned or mistreated pets. Funding will be used to either replace or upgrade current facilities in the communities that are closed, outdated or ill-designed for modern animal care.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $12M to the BC SPCA to build four new rescue shelters in Vancouver, Duncan, Prince George and Fort St. John to meet the demand to help abandoned or mistreated pets. Funding will be used to either replace or upgrade current facilities in the communities that are closed, outdated or ill-designed for modern animal care.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Ulkatcho First Nation has begun construction of the Ulkatcho Mercantile Store and Gas Station, a future gas station and commercial centre near Anahim Lake. The new initiative is intended to create jobs and promote revenue growth for the community. The development will feature separate gas and diesel dispensing areas, storage, rest areas for cars, and charging stations.

    canada.ca

  • The Ahousaht Nation has opened Ahous Adventure, an eco-cultural tour company in Tofino, on June 21. The company offers whale watching, bear watching, and a hot springs tour through the lens of the Ahousaht Nation. The company is currently seeking individuals to fill employment positions.

    cheknews.ca

  • BC Housing has purchased two buildings in Prince George for $3.3M, with the intent of turning them into supportive housing units for 30 people. The buildings will offer more permanent housing for vulnerable individuals and provide residents with daily meals, educational and professional support, and referrals to health and wellness services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • BC Ferries has closed the Pacific Buffet, located aboard some of their vessels, permanently due to increased cost of food and labour. The number of employees affected is unknown at this time. The operator plans to open a new amenity in late 2023 and is calling for customers to suggest what they would like to replace the buffet with.

    cheknews.ca

  • The Elkford Childcare Centre and Community Hub, a $1.1M multi-functional facility, has officially opened in Elkford. The facility brings 30 licensed child care spaces and provides a dedicated space for local entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profits to operate and grow their enterprises.

    e-know.ca

  • Two new licensed child care centres in Nanaimo are now open. Approximately 150 new child care spaces are located at Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District facilities, split between two elementary schools. Families will have access to over 70 spaces at Forest Park Elementary School and more than 75 spaces at Ladysmith Primary School.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • StillFood Bistro & Cappuccino Bar, a vegan bistro, has opened in Penticton in June.

    castanet.net

  • KFC, a fried-chicken fast food chain, has permanently closed one of their Coquitlam stores. The store had been open for over 50 years and was one of their oldest stores in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Pablo Cheese Tart, a Japanese bakery and cafe, is opening in Vancouver soon. Pablo is hiring for salespersons, baristas, cashiers and bakery chefs.

    dailyhive.com

  • Tea Thyme Café, a café with speciality waffles, has opened in Vancouver in June.

    dailyhive.com

  • Wildflower Distilling Co., a cocktail lounge and tasting bar, has opened in Penticton.

    castanet.net

  • Oak Estate Winery, is opening its wine tasting room to the public soon in Penticton. The winery also hosts special events and weddings.

    castanet.net

  • Beginning in fall 2023, Kwantlen Polytechnic University will waive tuition fees for eligible Indigenous students, as part of its commitment to advancing truth and reconciliation. Eligible First Nations members include the Kwantlen, Katzie, Semiahmoo, Musqueam, Tsawwassen, Qayqayt, and Kwikwetlem First Nations.

    www.kpu.ca

  • CKF Inc., a Nova Scotia package manufacturer, has installed new machinery and a production line in Langley to produce Earthcycle, a home-compostable and recyclable food packaging. With the new production line, CKF will be hiring 20 new employees for the Langley facility.

    .biv.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $6M for drinking water and wastewater treatment projects in Kelowna and Merritt. The infrastructure upgrades include strengthening dams and new water meters, to provide safe drinking water and wastewater systems to residents.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $500,000 to the City of Vernon through the destination development fund to create a modern mountain bike park at Becker Bike Park. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2024.

    vernon.ca

  • Vancouver Coastal Health is spending $177.7M to build a new eight-storey care home with over 150 beds in Richmond. The Richmond Lions Manor-Fentiman's construction is expected to begin in 2025 and be complete in 2028.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $2.3M to nine community risk-reduction and climate-adaption projects in the Lower Mainland, Okanagan, Vancouver Island and Nechako regions. Funding supports local communities prepare for floods and extreme heat. Funding will go towards risk mapping, risk assessments, land-use planning, purchasing equipment, community education and structural projects.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $7.8M to ViaSport to improve education and awareness on safe sports. ViaSport will build on the PlaySafeBC program, to provide safety in amateur sport and increase protection for all participants.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $14.8M to support the operations for non-profit housing providers to bring more housing and services to B.C. residents. The funding also supports education grants for non-profits, office and administration costs, and financial assistance to housing projects.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $52M to Tamanawis Secondary school and $59.5M to Guildford Park Secondary school, to add additional classrooms and provide over 1,000 new student spaces for the Surrey community. Both schools will add neighbourhood learning centres including child care and local programs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $253M to build several new developments in Burnaby to provide 1,500 new affordable homes. The new homes will provide affordable homes for Indigenous people, seniors, families with low incomes and people with disabilities. With varying developments, some are already under construction, while others are underway or will begin soon.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government provided $44M to build the new Ta'talu Elementary school in Surrey. The new three-storey school will accommodate 655 students. Construction is underway and the school is expected to open in January 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $61M to build a new elementary school in North Vancouver. The new school will accommodate 585 students and will include a learning centre with services and child care. Construction is expected to start in fall 2024 and be ready for students for the 2026-27 school year.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-06-19 to 2023-06-23

  • Carrier Sekani Family Services has begun construction on the Tachick Lake Healing Centre, a treatment centre located on the traditional territory of the Saik'uz First Nation. The $40M facility is scheduled for completion in 2025 and will provide a total of 46 treatment beds . Hiring for trained staff, including physicians, nurses, and various positions has begun.

    terracestandard.com

  • De Havilland Aircraft of Canada is ramping up manufacturing of the new DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft following orders for 45 of the planes. The company says work on the Classic 300-G will create 80 and 91 permanent production jobs in Calgary and Victoria, BC, respectively.

    wingsmagazine.com

  • The B.C. government is providing the Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique $5M to build a new five-unit school and gymnasium facility in Smithers. This new funding will improve access to education in French for francophone families and facilitate a positive learning environment specifically adapted to the needs of francophone students.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Nanaimo Regional General Hospital has opened its new $41.6M expanded 12-bed intensive care unit. The new unit will improve access to health care services and is expected to receive patients starting on June 28.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The David Douglas Botanical Garden Society, in partnership with the University of Northern British Columbia, will expand its botanical garden in Prince George. The $1.2M expansion project is expected to promote local biodiversity, provide horticultural knowledge to the public, and advance teaching and research opportunities for students and faculty.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • Tidewater Renewables has completed its $380M renewable diesel plant in Prince George. The facility is Canada's first stand-alone renewal diesel refinery and could enter production by next month. It is expected to produce 170M litres of renewable, low-carbon diesel per year.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Recreational centres on Vancouver Island are seeking individuals interested in working as lifeguards and swim instructors due to staffing shortages. Financial support and recruitment incentives are being offered to address the staffing gap.

    ctvnews.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1M in funding to the Barkerville Historic Town & Park for the construction and renovation of Barkerville's four seasons' accommodations. The project will add 22 cabins to its campgrounds to provide additional lodging during the winter. Upgrades are slated to begin in October 2023 and will support tourism in the local community.

    quesnelobserver.com

  • Pleasant Valley Remanufacturing, a remanufacturer of value added wood products located in Houston, has stopped operations temporarily. This is as a result of Canfor's closure of its Houston Sawmill facility earlier this spring, as Pleasant Valley relies on primary producers for raw materials. A total of 75 direct and 150 indirect workers are affected by the temporary closure.

    houston-today.com

  • The Shawnigan Lake Historical Society has begun work on expanding the Shawnigan Lake Museum to over 6,000 sq. ft. , which aims to be completed in June 2024. The expansion will increase key programming, grow tourism in the area and generate job opportunities both during and post-construction.

    cowichanvalleycitizen.com

  • The Skeena Bioenergy pellet plant and Skeena Sawmill, which employs 170 employees and contractors, has reopened in Terrace after being closed since February due to poor market conditions. The plant is resuming sawmill operations with one shift and plans to expand within two to three months when market conditions improve.

    terracestandard.com

  • The 172-room Courtyard by Marriott hotel officially opened in Nanaimo this month. The hotel is expected to help grow leisure and business tourism markets, which will support the economic growth of the Snuneymuxw First Nation and the local community.

    vancouverislandfreedaily.com

  • Catelowna, the Okanagan's first cat café, has opened in Kelowna in June. Visitors can eat, drink and play with up to 30 cats. The café works with adoption agencies and rescues, allowing some cats to be available for adoption.

    castanet.net

  • Hem 377, a Vietnamese café, is opening its second café in Vancouver soon.

    dailyhive.com

  • Toloache Mexican Kitchen is opening a restaurant serving Mexican comfort food in Vancouver in June.

    dailyhive.com

  • Black Walnut, a steak and seafood speciality restaurant is opening in Vancouver in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • Patisserie Yudi, a Japanese-French-inspired bakery, has opened in Richmond in June.

    dailyhive.com

  • Port Moody based Massive Canada is building a new 91,000 sq. ft. mass timber manufacturing facility in Williams Lake, BC. The $75M facility, of which $10M in funding is being provided by the Government of B.C., will employ over 70 people and is slated for full operations in early 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $2.06M to Novarc Technologies Inc., a North Vancouver-based robotics company, to support the development and commercialization of welding robots internationally. The funding supports 50 new jobs at Novarc.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $20M over two years to the Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre (GSC),located in Vancouver, to conduct genetic research including life-saving cancer and medical research. Governments, universities and stakeholders will collaborate to make GSC a hub for the broader life-sciences community and expand life-science jobs, businesses, and opportunities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Fraser Health is planning to build a $179.7M long-term care home with 200 beds in Delta. The project will also include a 49 space daycare center. Construction will begin in 2025 and be completed in 2027.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1.6M for a new campaign to educate people on proper smoke-alarm use and reducing fire risks. The government is partnering with the BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit to promote community fire-risk reduction and a smoke-alarm social marketing campaign to reduce the number of fire-related injuries and deaths in B.C.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and the Law Foundation of British Columbia are providing $3M in new funding for restorative justice projects. The province has over 83 community-based programs, including 52 community accountability programs and 31 Indigenous justice programs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Jameson Development Corp. is providing $81.4M for a 258 unit affordable housing project in Vancouver. The B.C. government is providing low-interest financing and the City of Vancouver is providing $3.1M in cost levy waivers for the project. The building will include commercial and office space, an outdoor playground, and urban garden areas. Construction is expected to be completed in 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $4M to the BC Hydrogen Ports Project (BCH2 Ports Project). The BCH2 Ports Project is the province's first large-scale project to use hydrogen and fuel cells in the transportation sector. The pilot program aims to reduce 110 tonnes of CO2 per year.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $932,760 to improve ventilation at Eagle Ridge Elementary School in Coquitlam. Funding will be used to replace furnaces and upgrade digital control systems for temperature regulation.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $8.5M to the Nlaka’pamux Nation to build a central education, social and cultural facility on their territory. The new facility includes childcare spaces, youth programs, family drop-ins, and a cultural gathering space.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is expanding eligibility for Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) to include additional areas affected by flooding. The eligibility expansion includes the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary and the Thompson-Nicola Regional District. Financial assistance for each claim is 80% of total eligible damage that is over $1,000, to a maximum of $400,000.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is expanding eligibility for Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) to include additional areas affected by flooding. The eligibility expansion includes the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary and the Thompson-Nicola Regional District. Financial assistance for each claim is at 80% of total eligible damage that is over $1,000, to a maximum of $400,000.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $4.5M to renovate and upgrade Canuck Place Children's Hospice in Vancouver. The funding will improve patient care rooms, ventilation systems, upgrade building repairs, and create a new administrative building. Construction is expected to be complete by 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Purebread, specializing in baked goods and desserts, has opened a store in Vancouver's International Airport.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-06-12 to 2023-06-16

  • The B.C. government is providing $500,000 to Nurses and Nurse Practitioners of British Columbia (NNPBC) to expand virtual mental health-services and anti-racism supports. Advica Health provides nurses, mental health providers and medical specialist with a 24/7 hotline support. The program supports medical professionals with workplace satisfaction and retention.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.7M for two projects to support those affected by family and gender-based violence in the Lower Mainland. Organizations include the Centre of Excellence for Women’s Health Society (CEWH), who will support people with intimate partner violence. The DIVERSEcity Community Resource Society will use the funds to prevent family violence in immigrant communities.

    canada.ca

  • Birdies Eats & Drinks, a California-styled restaurant, is opening in Burnaby in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • Tato's Kitchen, a Chinese restaurant, opened in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cadence Café, a plant-based café, opened inside the Cadence Fitness Studio in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Big Way Hot Pot, specializing in customizable personal hot pots, is opening its third Metro Vancouver location in Richmond in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • Vancouver based Western Forest Products will be curtailing production at various sawmills across British Columbia over the next month. Approximately 19 million board feet will be reduced by the curtailment due to poor market conditions. The company has not indicated if there will be impacts to employment due to the curtailments.

    westernforest.com

  • The B.C. government is adding complex-care housing services to support up to 10 people in Prince George with housing, counselling, psychotherapy, self-management, medication management, substance-use treatment, employment services and support with daily living. Services are being provided by Connective Supportive Housing.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Tsawwassen Mills, a 1.2 million sq. ft. mall located on the territory of the Tsawwassen First Nation, is planning to add 100,000 sq. ft. of entertainment and dining to the mall. The expansion includes a 15,000 sq. ft. food court with a variety of cuisines, and an 18,000 sq. ft. indoor children's playground and a performance space.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Kelowna has awarded Entuitive Consulting Engineering and Bird’s general contractors to construct a pedestrian overpass over Highway 97 linking the Central Green development with Kelowna's downtown. After the design process, construction is expected to begin in September with completion in 2024.

    castanet.net

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.8M through the Adult Basic Education and English Language Learning Pathways program, to provide students the pre-requisites for post-secondary programs. Learning in English, math, and science education is provided, which are often pre-requisites for high-demand programs in healthcare, early childhood education, trades and technology.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Tayybeh, a Syrian catering business, is opening a café in Vancouver soon.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $3.6M if funding over three years to help Small Business BC in supporting entrepreneurs and increase the export capacity of small businesses in B.C. The funding supports the Export Navigator program, a free service that helps small businesses become export ready and offers advisors that provide advice for business owners.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $17.2M to the Pacific Salmon Foundation and the First Nations Fisheries Council (FNFC) to protect, conserve and restore Pacific wild salmon. The collaboration of science and Indigenous knowledge will be incorporated towards a plan for habitat restoration and climate adaptation.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $10M to the BC Parks Foundation to provide long-term protection of B.C.'s ecosystems, including over 1,000 provincial parks, recreation areas, conservancies, ecological reserves, protected areas and conservation areas. B.C. aims to conserve and protect 30% of B.C.'s land base by 2030.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has provided $1.1M towards the looking Glass Foundation for Eating Disorders program, supporting counselling jobs and services. The program supports up to 15 practicum students per year to provide therapeutic counselling services to 100 clients with eating disorders.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and the Korea Mine Rehabilitation and Mineral Resources Corporation (KOMIR) have signed a statement of co-operation to collaborate for three years in the development of critical minerals for both regions. The partnerships strengthens the critical minerals sector at all life cycles and supports new opportunities in the sector.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing more than $1M in grants to 59 communities to improve crosswalk infrastructure, traffic calming, speed-limit reduction projects, speed-reader boards, improved lighting, and road-safety planning.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Starting June 1, pharmacists in B.C. can prescribe contraceptives and medications for 21 minor ailments. The new service allows pharmacists to make an assessment on patient's symptoms, check their medical history and recommend a treatment. Providing faster services for patients and reducing pressure on primary-care providers.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-06-05 to 2023-06-09

  • Blenz, a Canadian coffee chain, has permanently closed one of its Vancouver locations, near the Commercial-Broadway SkyTrain station.

    dailyhive.com

  • Lee's Donuts, a donut speciality shop, is opening a temporary pop-up shop from June 1 to November 30, 2023 inside Lougheed mall in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Aji Dog, a Japanese style hot dog establishment, has opened their store inside the Metrotown mall in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Azzuri Italian Pasticceria, an Italian dessert and gelato speciality restaurant, has opened in Chilliwack.

    dailyhive.com

  • Mnimes Restaurant, offering Greek cuisine, is opening a 1,900 sq. ft. restaurant in Vancouver in June.

    dailyhive.com

  • JJ Bakes Company, a bakery and café, is opening in Langley in June.

    dailyhive.com

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $48.6M to support seven wastewater projects in B.C., including New Westminster, Tofino, Central Saanich, Tahsis, Kamloops, Golden and McBride. Projects include infrastructure upgrades to manage wastewater and stormwater and upgrades to protect local communities and waterways.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $5.9M for Indigenous economic growth in clean energy projects and skills training. $3.6M in funding for the BC Indigenous Clean Energy Initiative will support 14 Indigenous communities to develop clean energy projects. Meanwhile $2M in funding for the First Nations Technology Council will support the digital Horizons technology employment training program.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $6M to the Lytton Homeowner Resilient Rebuild Program for grants to eligible homeowners in Lytton to rebuild their home to fire-resilient or fire-resilient and Net Zero standards.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.5M to the John Howard Society to support people with disabilities find employment in Victoria. The organization aims to support 120 people with skills training, job preparation, obtaining and retaining employment and helping people become self-employed.

    timescolonist.com

  • The B.C. government is providing an additional $14M to the EquipCare BC program to support improvements to long-term care homes and assisted-living residences for seniors. The funding supports the acquisition of equipment to provide safety and quality of life improvements.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and the Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development have signed a three-year renewal of the Memorandum of Cooperation to support the delivery of clean solutions for transportation projects. The collaboration aids communities to build green infrastructure and supports jobs and opportunities across B.C.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $809,000 to the Seniors Services Society of B.C. (SSSBC) to help seniors access mental health and addiction supports through the Senior Housing Information and Navigation Ease (SHINE) program. The services are available throughout the Lower Mainland, Nanaimo, Victoria, Prince George, Kelowna and Penticton.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $809,000 to the Seniors Services Society of B.C. (SSSBC) to help seniors access mental health and addiction supports through the Senior Housing Information and Navigation Ease (SHINE) program. The services are available throughout the Lower Mainland, Nanaimo, Victoria, Prince George, Kelowna and Penticton.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $809,000 to the Seniors Services Society of B.C. (SSSBC) to help seniors access mental health and addiction supports through the Senior Housing Information and Navigation Ease (SHINE) program. The services are available throughout the Lower Mainland, Nanaimo, Victoria, Prince George, Kelowna and Penticton.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $809,000 to the Seniors Services Society of B.C. (SSSBC) to help seniors access mental health and addiction supports through the Senior Housing Information and Navigation Ease (SHINE) program. The services are available throughout the Lower Mainland, Nanaimo, Victoria, Prince George, Kelowna and Penticton.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has approved a concept plan for a new cancer care centre at the Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops. The new centre will provide upgraded infrastructure and equipment, and is expected to support around 14,000 treatment visits per year.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal, provincial and municipal governments are providing $2.4M to support the construction of a new transit exchange in Nelson. The new transit exchange will feature bus shelters and up to six bus stop zones, providing increased transit service to better serve the community with safe and accessible transit options.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $6M in rebates, ranging from $350 to $1400 depending on income, for eligible B.C. adult residents to purchase an approved e-bike for active transportation. The program aims to provide affordable, efficient and eco-friendly options for e-bike transportation to up to 9,000 people.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $2M to the Ocean Decade Collaborative Centre, to deliver the Climate Ready BC Seafood Program. The new program aims to protect the environment, including B.C.'s oceans, watersheds, seafood and marine life. The program supports coastal communities and thousands of jobs in B.C.'s seafood sector.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is increasing funding for settlement services for immigrants from $6M to $25.6M annually. The BC Settlement and Integration Services program supports temporary residents and naturalized citizens integrate into local communities, find employment, access education and find health care. The expanded program aims to aid 40,000 people each year starting in spring 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Lululemon, an athletic clothing brand, is planning to add 2,600 new jobs in Vancouver in the next five years. The federal government, through the Canada-British Columbia Immigration Agreement, has granted a special exemption to Lululemon from the labour market impact assessment (LMIA) process, which allows the company to hire high-skilled foreign workers until April 2026.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2023-05-29 to 2023-06-02

  • The B.C. government is providing $19.8M to for BC Air Access Program (BCAAP) projects, to support 40 projects at 29 airports, improving safety, security and passenger facilities. Projects include runway extensions, improved runway lighting, payment improvements, terminal enhancements and better fire protection.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Whale Tea, a bubble tea shop, opened in Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • Yum Sweet Shop, an ice cream and sweets shop, is opening its second location in Vancouver this fall.

    dailyhive.com

  • Beaucoup Bakery & Café, a Parisian-inspired bakery, is opening a second location in Vancouver's St. Regis Hotel.

    dailyhive.com

  • Pane e Formaggio, an Italian pastry shop, opened its fourth store in Vancouver in May.

    dailyhive.com

  • Paper Excellence, a B.C.-based pulp and paper manufacturer, is temporarily curtailing the Crofton pulp mill for 4 weeks and the Port Alberni mill for a minimum of two weeks. Around 100 employees from the Crofton mill and 174 from the Port Alberni mill will be affected. Paper Excellence attributes the curtailment to a high supply of paper, limited markets and decline of paper demand globally.

    timescolonist.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $2.5M to support farmers and ranchers through the Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture program, which grants up to $35,000 in cost-shared funding per project for eligible applicants. The program has expanded eligibility to include B.C.-licensed beekeeping and aquaculture producers, and federally licensed cannabis and hemp producers.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $500,000 to the BC Healthy Communities Society for grants up to $25,000 to support eligible local and Indigenous governments and communities to deliver age-friendly programs. Programs support seniors with housing, transportation, wellness, climate and emergency-management strategies, public communications and outdoor spaces.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $6M to the Civil Forfeiture Grant Program to support community and crime-prevention initiatives for 197 community projects and to fund police equipment and training. In addition, $3.7M from forfeited recoveries will go towards the projects. The programs will support survivors, prevention of gender-based violence, specialized services for those at risk.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Baskin-Robbins, a US-based ice cream chain, opened a new store in Vancouver. Baskin-Robbins plans to open an additional 12 shops in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $100M towards the Safety Rest Area Improvement Program over the next nine years to improve safety, accessibility and amenities along B.C.'s highways. Improvements include new lighting and signage, upgrading playground equipment, increasing accessibility and improving rest area facilities. 30 seasonal students are being recruited to provide landscaping and maintenance.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $11M to the Downtown Eastside SRO Collaborative Society (SRO-C), a non-profit organization located in Vancouver, that aims to improve the health, safety and housing security for tenants in single-room occupancy (SRO) hotels. Funding will support SRO-C to provide three years of life-skills training programs to 2,700 tenants in 50 SRO hotels.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $1.5M to upgrade the North Coast Recycling Depot, located in Prince Rupert. The initiative will support infrastructure upgrades to increase the recycling deports efficiency and capacity to process material, by 1,200 tonnes annually.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $16.1M to support four water infrastructure projects across B.C to provide clean water in communities. The projects include a new water treatment plant in Whistler, water treatment upgrades in the District of Lantzville, the Village of Kaslo, and the Village of New Denver.

    canada.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $16.1M to support four water infrastructure projects across B.C to provide clean water in communities. The projects include a new water treatment plant in Whistler, water treatment upgrades in the District of Lantzville, the Village of Kaslo, and the Village of New Denver.

    canada.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $16.1M to support four water infrastructure projects across B.C to provide clean water in communities. The projects include a new water treatment plant in Whistler, water treatment upgrades in the District of Lantzville, the Village of Kaslo, and the Village of New Denver.

    canada.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $2.4M to improve ventilation systems in eight schools and Rosewood Tower, a social housing building in Richmond. The initiative will upgrade ventilation and HVAC systems to provide cleaner air and reduce energy consumption in the community.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $2.5B for the acquisition of 61 small vessels and upgrades to small craft, barges and work boats to equip them with modern equipment. The procurement of small vessels will aide in waterway safety and will support jobs in the marine industry.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $51.8M to build a new 555-seat elementary school in Langley. In keeping with B.C.'s emission reduction goals, mass timber will be incorporated in portions of the school. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2024 with completion in fall 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $300M to Vancouver-based biotech firm AbCellera for their new campus. The campus will include a preclinical facility and is expected to support around 400 high-skilled jobs. Construction is expected to be completed in 2025.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $3.1M to nine projects to support community wellness and jobs in Anmore, Salt Spring Island, Agassiz and Rosedale.$1.76M will go to four projects from the Canada Community Revitalization Fund and $1.01M for three projects from the Tourism Relief Fund. Projects will support tourism, cultural activities, local businesses, and upgraded infrastructure.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing an additional $5.17M to the Chinese Canadian Museum to renovate 21,000 sq. ft. of museum space and provide a transformative visitor experience. The museum will open on July 1 in the Wing Sang Building, the oldest building in Vancouver's Chinatown.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2023-05-22 to 2023-05-26

  • Canadian National Railway is hiring train conductors in British Columbia, including in Fort St. John, Chetwynd, Prince George and Smithers. Conductors hired will receive 11 weeks of paid training and a $10,000 signing bonus.

    dailyhive.com

  • Canadian National Railway is hiring train conductors in British Columbia, including in Fort St. John, Chetwynd, Prince George and Smithers. Conductors hired will receive 11 weeks of paid training and a $10,000 signing bonus.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Vancouver International Auto Show will be returning from March 20 to 24, 2024, after a four-year hiatus. The five-day event will feature zero emission vehicles, plug-in hybrids, luxury supercars, electric vehicle education and test-drive experiences.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Vancouver Retro Gaming Expo (VRGE) is hosting its 10th annual event on June 24 in New Westminster. The expo will include vendors, panels, and live entertainment.

    dailyhive.com

  • Leopold's Tavern, a Canadian pub, is opening in Vancouver this fall.

    dailyhive.com

  • Snack Street, a new convenience store offering a selection of international snacks, is planning to open in Vancouver this June. The shop plans to open 24/7 in the future.

    dailyhive.com

  • Canadian National Railway is hiring train conductors in British Columbia, including in Fort St. John, Chetwynd, Prince George and Smithers. Conductors hired will receive 11 weeks of paid training and a $10,000 signing bonus.

    dailyhive.com

  • As of May 23, Relic Entertainment, a Vancouver-based video game developer, is laying off 33% of its workforce or 121 employees. The company cited industry challenges including project delays, rapidly rising costs, high inflation, and foreign exchange rate fluctuations for the decision.

    dailyhive.com

  • Conifex Timber Inc. will be temporarily curtailing operations at its Mackenzie sawmill for four weeks, commencing on June 5, 2023. The curtailment will reduce production by approximately 16 million board feet. There is no information on exactly how many employees are affected. The decision is a result of low water levels in the Williston Reservoir as well as reduced demand for lumber products.

    lesprom.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $62M to upgrade 300 kilometers in northern B.C. highways to provide safer transportation. Projects include $8.2M to Vanderhoof region and $8.4M towards Highway 5. These two projects are expected to be complete in the fall.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $62M to upgrade 300 kilometers in northern B.C. highways to provide safer transportation. Projects include $8.2M to Vanderhoof region and $8.4M towards Highway 5. These two projects are expected to be complete in the fall.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $30M to upgrade 157 kilometers of Vancouver Island highways to provide safer transportation. Projects include $10.7M to O.K. Industries Ltd. for the Highway 19A paving project and $3.3M to ARC Asphalt Recycling Inc. to repave Highway 19 Nanaimo Parkway. These two projects are expected to complete by the end of September.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $120M towards resurfacing projects to upgrade 485 kilometers of highways and sideroads in the southern Interior region. Work on these projects will be ongoing through summer and fall 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $5M to Lafarge Canada to develop its carbon utilization technology in cement production, which reduces emissions and protects the environment. The initiative aims to capture carbon dioxide during the processing stages and create a more sustainable way to manufacture cement.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $4M to the Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium to deliver the new Youth in Manufacturing initiative, which provides short-term paid work placements up to 500 youth, starting this fall 2023. Eligible employers can receive up to $3,500 per placement for onboarding and wage costs for on-the-job-training.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $4.1M to the Seamless Day Kindergarten pilot for 2023-24. The program provides families with affordable early learning and child care delivered by early childhood educators and teachers. The program provides before and after school care at participating schools in B.C.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government through the Buy BC Partnership Program is providing $2M to support eligible applicants undertake marketing activities to increase consumer awareness of local food, and beverage products. The program supports B.C. food and beverage production and strengthens local food security.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $11M towards Phase 1 of the North Shore Neighbourhood House redevelopment project, to support 89 affordable rental homes in North Vancouver. Construction is expected to begin August 2023. The project will include an integrated family respite centre with 18 overnight beds and 25 adult daycare spaces.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal, provincial and municipal governments are providing $3.1M to upgrade the District of Taylor's wastewater treatment plant. Work includes building a concrete sludge management facility to improve the wastewater management system and protect the health of the community and environment.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $10.9M in funding to support active transportations projects on Vancouver Island, including Greater Victoria, Toquaht Nation, Tseshaht First Nation and the Hupacasath First Nation for safer and accessible transportation. The infrastructure projects include new sidewalks, pedestrian pathways/bridges, bike lanes, and trails.

    canada.ca

  • Service Canada's new passport office in Prince George opened on May 16. The office offers 10-day passport service to applicants, benefiting the residents who previously would have to visit Kelowna or the Lower Mainland for this type of service.

    princegeorgecitizen.com
• Week of 2023-05-15 to 2023-05-19

  • Tolko Industries Ltd., a Vernon-based wood products manufacturer, has announced two weeks of unscheduled downtime for its Lakeview sawmill in Williams Lake from May 19 to June 5. The company cited high log costs, low fibre supply and weak lumber markets for the curtailment. The temporary shutdown will affect 50 workers and reduce production by 10 million board feet.

    mycariboonow.com

  • Happy Lemon, an international bubble tea brand, has closed two of their stores, with one in Richmond and one in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Buttermere Patisserie, a cake and pastry shop located in Vancouver, is closing on June 10.

    dailyhive.com

  • Walt Disney Animation Studios and Industrial Light & Magic are hiring a variety of roles from entry-level to senior positions in Vancouver. Some roles include animation and internships are available.

    dailyhive.com

  • Willow Industries has plans to double its Central City Fun Park's size to 175,000 sq. ft. by consolidating with other vacant commercial units. If approved by the City of Surrey, the indoor expansion would add additional entertainment including arcade games, mini golf courses, a virtual reality arena, escape rooms, party rooms, and a go-kart track.

    dailyhive.com

  • Uber, a multinational rideshare app service, has been approved to operate ride-hailing services in Victoria and the Okanagan region.

    dailyhive.com

  • Uber, a multinational rideshare app service, has been approved to operate ride-hailing services in Victoria and the Okanagan region.

    dailyhive.com

  • Skeena Sawmills is resuming its operations in Terrace after a closure in February, which affected 150 employees for 3 months. Skeena Sawmills will start with one shift and aims to resume full production capacity in the next three months when market conditions improve.

    terracestandard.com

  • The Gulf Islands National Park Reserve has opened its SMONE?TEN campground for the summer season until September 30. The national park offers outdoor land and water activities, self-guided activities and weekly interpretation programs in July and August.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $198,946 to support four active transportation projects for Indigenous communities, including the Bonaparte First Nation and Adams Lake Indian Band. The initiatives include planning and improving the safety and accessibility of pathways to support active transportation in the communities.

    canada.ca

  • Saku, a Japanese tonkatsu speciality restaurant, has opened in Coquitlam this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • Kokoro Tokyo Mazesoba, the world's largest mazesoba chain restaurant, is planning to open two new restaurants in Metro Vancouver. The restaurants will open in Surrey and Richmond next year.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of Canada and TransLink, Metro Vancouver's transit operator, are providing $34.9M to the SkyTrain rail maintenance project. Over the next four years, the project will replace 20.2km of rail and 24,000 rail pads. Funding supports safe and accessible transportation, and creates manufacturing and construction jobs.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $750,000 to Volleyball BC for infrastructure upgrades to the Harry Jerome Sports Centre in Burnaby. Funding supports improvements to the facility, community wellness and local jobs.

    canada.ca

  • The federal government is providing $170M to establish a new wildfire monitoring satellite system called WildfireSat. The Canadian Space Agency will collaborate with OroraTech, a German-based company with offices in Vancouver, and Spire Global, an US spaced-to-cloud data analytics company to establish a wildfire monitoring satellite.

    techcouver.com

  • The Canadian Red Cross, a not-for-profit organization, is hiring a temporary full-time Client Service Support Clerk in Kelowna. The position includes customer service and clerical work with the Health Equipment Loan Program.

    nationtalk.ca

  • BC Ferries' has opened a new $2.5M training facility. The new Simulation Training Centre in Nanaimo offers realistic simulations to train crew members and licensed officers. This facility replaces three older simulators and centralizes training in Nanaimo.

    ctvnews.ca

  • Aragon, a real estate development company, has launched Timber House, North America's largest residential cross-laminated timber (CLT) project in New Westminster. Kalesnikoff, a B.C. company in Thrums, will supply the material to provide mass timber floors, bearing walls and shearwalls for the 77-unit housing project.

    woodworkingnetwork.com

  • Aragon, a real estate development company, has launched Timber House, North America's largest residential cross-laminated timber (CLT) project in New Westminster. Kalesnikoff, a B.C. company in Thrums, will supply the material to provide mass timber floors, bearing walls and shearwalls for the 77-unit housing project.

    woodworkingnetwork.com

  • The B.C. government is providing an additional $16M over three years to support over 1,300 spots for early childhood educators (ECE) education at public post-secondary institutions. The funding increases access to ECE programs and helps address workforce challenges in the sector.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has provided $9.2M to purchase and renovate the Cheryl Smith Residence, providing 12 new second-stage homes for women and their children leaving violence in Abbotsford. SARA for Women, a non-profit, will operate the homes. The B.C. government will also provide an annual operating subsidy of $240,000.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is supporting SkilledTradesBC on a new process to certify more skilled trades. SkilledTradesBC is accepting applications from industry and other organizations for the identification of trades to be certified until the end of June. The trades identified from the new process to be announced in spring 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has purchased Mark's Place, a $1.3M supportive housing building located in Prince George with 22 homes. Renovations are expected to be complete by fall 2023. Mark's Place is operated by the Association Advocating for Women and Community (AAWC), who will provide support services including daily meals, education and employment training.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-05-08 to 2023-05-12

  • The Monster, the world's largest 300-metre inflatable obstacle course, will be opening in Victoria and Abbotsford this June. The obstacle course includes family-oriented activities, including food and drinks.

    dailyhive.com

  • Jam Cafe, an all-day breakfast and lunch café, is opening a new location in North Vancouver in June.

    dailyhive.com

  • Bombay Kitchen + Bar, an Indian cuisine, is opening its second restaurant in Vancouver this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $1.41M to improve ventilation in two elementary schools in Burnaby. The new energy ventilation units and heat pumps will increase airflow, provide a safer environment and reduce energy consumption.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $210,000 to Easter Seals British Columbia/Yukon to deliver skills training and 22 weeks of work experience. The programs provides eight participants with disabilities to gain skills, work experience and prepare them for hospitality work in the Lower Mainland.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is collaborating with three organizations to implement programs that prepare students in K-12 schools for new technology. The initiatives include $250,000 to expand DigiBC's Play to Learn program, $150,000 to NPower Canada for digital career skills, and digital marketing courses by Jelly Academy.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Royal BC Museum (RBCM) will be reopening the Old Town gallery on July 29, after being closed since January 2022 due to revamping. The reopening of Old Town is the first phase of a multi-year project to transform RBCM and to incorporate public opinions to be more inclusive and engaging.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • B.C. police services are currently recruiting police officers. The RCMP currently has 518 vacant positions and approximately 1,000 vacant temporary positions in British Columbia. Surrey Police Service also has 500 job vacancies.

    cbc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $500,000 to Métis Nation BC to host two mental wellness gatherings this fall, including one that helps Métis girls address self-harm and one for community members to have dialogues on alcohol. The two gatherings aims to provide culturally safe resources and tools to approximately 200 community members.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is launching the Trade Diversification Strategy, a new international trade strategy to support business export opportunities with global markets. The Trade Diversification Strategy includes $1.2M annually from the Province for Export Navigator and $913,000 to the World Trade Centre Vancouver to deliver the Trade Accelerator Program, which helps businesses become export ready.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $74.7M over three years to BC's public post-secondary education system to provide over 3,000 technology learning spaces to help people build skills for in-demand jobs. The skills training includes cybersecurity, software engineering, data science, life sciences, creative tech, clean tech and agricultural technology.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal, provincial and local governments are providing $10.4M to build a five-storey building with 40 new homes in Courtenay for Indigenous Elders, individuals and peoples living with disabilities on low to moderate incomes. The construction will begin soon and is expected to be complete in late 2024. The building’s ownership will go to Wachiay Friendship Centre Society (WFCS), a non-profit organization that provides cultural programs and events to residents.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government, Fraser Health and the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation is providing $1.49B towards the new 10-storey Jim Pattison Acute Care Tower of the Royal Columbian Hospital redevelopment project. The acute-care tower will increase the hospital's capacity, allowing it to provide care to more patients, and is expected to be completed by 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The BC Hydro Peace Agricultural Compensation Fund is providing $383,714 to 12 agricultural projects in the Peace region, supporting farming infrastructure, research and demonstration initiatives. Projects include conducting field research and fence construction for BC Grains Producer Association, building a pellet mill for livestock feed for Jedidiah Franklin, and installing a fence for the community pasture for the Bear Mountain Grazing Association.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $64M over 5 years to BC Wildfire Services so it can become a year-round service. The funding will support hiring additional firefighters, and providing the training and skills for wildfire and all-hazard response.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The B.C. government’s chief forester has reduced the allowable annual cut (AAC) level to 2.39 million cubic metres for the Mackenzie Timber Supply Area (TSA). The new AAC is based on the assessment of forest health, climate changes, spruce beetle infestations, old-growth management, species at risk, and wildlife habitat.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government provided $5M towards a cellular project on a 70-kilometre stretch of Highway 14, which included the completion of seven cell towers to bring cellular service. The cell connectivity ensures safety and access to critical services for residents, commuters and tourists travelling from Sooke to Port Renfrew.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $380,000 to Options Community Services Society to deliver the Community and Healthcare Interpreter Training Program. The program provides 24 participants in the Lower Mainland with 11 weeks of training, 12 weeks of on-the-job experience, and 2 weeks of support to prepare them for employment in the social services sector.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $2.5M to Vancouver Island Life Science (VILS), a non-profit society, to create a 7,000 sq. ft. facility in the Greater Victoria that supports six local companies with a specialized lab space. The new lab will support the companies in research, development of new technologies and treatments.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $520,000 to Kinghaven Peardonville House Society, to deliver skills and certification courses for its construction-training program, The Purpose Project. The program provides 24 participants with 11 weeks of training, 4 weeks of the on-the-job experience and 1 week of support to prepare them for employment in the construction industry.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Monster, the world's largest 300-metre inflatable obstacle course, will be opening in Victoria and Abbotsford this June. The obstacle course includes family-oriented activities, including food and drinks.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-05-01 to 2023-05-05

  • The B.C. government is providing nearly $300,000 to support clean-energy projects in four First Nations communities in the Lower Mainland and the Interior. The projects aim to provide energy-efficient infrastructure including utility stabilization for the Peters First Nation and solar-energy utilities to the Hiy?ám? ta S?wx?wú7mesh Housing Society, Osoyoos Indian Band, and Nlaka'pamux Nation Tribal Council.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Columbia Basin Trust is supporting 12 projects to reduce the threat of wildfires in the Kootenays and First Nation communities in the region. The projects include procuring portable water tanks and equipment trailers, and providing training to wildfire fighting crews.

    thefreepress.ca

  • Jenny Craig, an American weight loss and nutrition company, has announced 97 location closures and 400 layoffs in Canada. Jenny Craig has several locations in British Columbia; the number of employees affected in the province is unknown at this time.

    stlawyers.ca

  • The Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) is hiring over 1,000 employees this summer for a variety of positions including the annual fair roles, box office attendants, games and rides operators and guest experience representatives. The hourly wages begin at $17.59.

    dailyhive.com

  • T&T Supermarket, an Asian grocery chain, is opening a new store in Coquitlam this June.

    dailyhive.com

  • Swift Brewing plans to open a new brewery and tasting room in Victoria this May. The location will offer a selection of beer, cocktails and snacks.

    dailyhive.com

  • Please! Beverage Co. plans to open Please! Tasting House, a cocktail lounge, in Vancouver this June. The location will offer drinks and small bites.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) is building a 10,000-seat amphitheater in Vancouver for $65M. The amphitheater will include the world's largest free-span timber roof structure. Construction will begin in 2024 and completion is expected in 2026.

    cbc.ca

  • 11,500 unionized screenwriters from the Writers Guild of America (WGA) have announced a strike action on May 2, potentially affecting hundreds of B.C. industry workers that work in television production. If the strike continues into the summer it may create a shortage in work and delay productions, resulting in layoffs.

    cbc.ca

  • The Richmond Night Market, an annual Asian-inspired night market, opened April 28. The outdoor market will run from Fridays to Sundays until October 9. The night market includes over 100 food vendors and entertainment.

    richmond-news.com

  • The B.C. government is conducting aerial-spray treatments during the spring to eradicated spongy moths, which pose a risk to forests, farms, orchards and trees. The spraying will occur in locations including Port Alberni, Campbell River, Courtenay and Victoria.

    woodbusiness.ca

  • Sinclar Group Forest Products has announced that it will temporarily curtail operations at Apollo Forest Products in Fort St. James, Lakeland Mills in Prince George, and Nechako Lumber in Vanderhoof over the coming months. The company has cited the high cost of fibre and poor market conditions for the curtailment. There is no information on the number of workers impacted at this time.

    lesprom.com

  • Sinclar Group Forest Products has announced that it will temporarily curtail operations at Apollo Forest Products in Fort St. James, Lakeland Mills in Prince George, and Nechako Lumber in Vanderhoof over the coming months. The company has cited the high cost of fibre and poor market conditions for the curtailment. There is no information on the number of workers impacted at this time.

    lesprom.com

  • The B.C. government is providing a $10M grant to the non-profit organization Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) to enhance outdoor recreation experiences. ORCBC works with 70 recreation clubs and associations to organize events, trips, educational programs and maintenance of 20% of B.C.'s trail system.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $500,000 in funding to 11 communities to improve infrastructure, including roads, arenas, bridges, drinking water and wastewater systems. Projects include $50,000 each for: the Town of Comox's rehabilitation of sanitary systems, assessments to the City of Trail's water systems, and an asset management strategy for the District of Saanich.

    canada.ca

  • Since January 2023, the B.C. government has provided $2.6M in grants to 51 taxi companies through the Passenger Transportation Accessibility Program Maintenance Rebate. The funding supports the maintenance of 400 wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has purchased a property for $2.5M in Terrace, to provide 19 homes for tenants displaced from the Coachman Apartments building. While the building is going through re-development in the long-term, the building is available for tenants to move in immediately.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $150,000 in funding to Ishtar Women's Resource Society, located in Langley, to support counselling and therapy services for women facing gender-based violence. Ishtar plans to hire additional practicum students to provide professional counselling support.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $200M towards the Declaration Act Engagement Fund to strengthen engagement, reconciliation and consultations with First Nations and governments. The fund supports staffing, training, meetings and inter-governmental collaboration.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing funding for three CleanBC programs that support cleaner heavy-duty transportation, including electric vehicles and infrastructure. The zero-emissions vehicles plan includes $17.3M for the Commercial Vehicles Pilots program, $30M for the Commercial Vehicle Innovation Challenge, and $19.5M to support medium- and heavy-duty vehicle charging infrastructure.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing nearly $300,000 to support clean-energy projects in four First Nations communities in the Lower Mainland and the Interior. The projects aim to provide energy-efficient infrastructure including utility stabilization for the Peters First Nation and solar-energy utilities to the Hiy?ám? ta S?wx?wú7mesh Housing Society, Osoyoos Indian Band, and Nlaka'pamux Nation Tribal Council.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing nearly $900,000 to support clean-energy projects for three First Nations communities on Vancouver Island. The projects aim to provide energy-efficient infrastructure including HVAC systems in the Tseshaht First Nation, heating systems for the Heiltsuk Nation and a community energy plan for the Huu-ay-aht First Nations.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $200,000 to support clean-energy projects in two Northern First Nations communities. The projects aim to provide energy-efficient infrastructure including a solar and energy-storage system for the Binche Whut'en First Nation and a community energy plan for the Doig River First Nation.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $200,000 to support clean-energy projects in two northern First Nations communities. The projects aim to provide energy-efficient infrastructure including a solar and energy-storage system for the Binche Whut'en First Nation and a community energy plan for the Doig River First Nation.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $20M in funding to the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC to support food-and-beverage processing businesses and strengthen food security. The fund will support business upgrades, equipment, the hiring of experts and specialized training.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing an additional $5M to the Innovator Skills Initiative, a program that helps workers gain skills and obtain employment in the technology sector. The goal of the additional funding is to secure up to 500 more placements in the tech sector, with priority given to Indigenous peoples.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-04-24 to 2023-04-28

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $13.02M for flood-hazard mapping, to help prepare and protect B.C. communities. The flood-hazard mapping will provide data for governments and First Nations to make informed decisions for both planning and reducing the impacts of flooding.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Ximen Mining Corporation has been granted the final permit for its Kenville gold mine project in Nelson. The original operation (1890-1954) was one of B.C.'s first underground gold mines. The new permit will allow the company to access new vein extensions.

    canadianminingjournal.com

  • Per Se Social Corner, a restaurant chain offering Italian and Spanish cuisine, plans to open a new location in Vancouver this fall. The new restaurant will provide 212 seats, including an all-season terrace.

    dailyhive.com

  • Ayoub's Dried Fruits and Nuts, a bulk speciality market, is opening a new location in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Unni Pastries, a Korean speciality bakery, is opening a 1,100 sq. ft. cafe in Vancouver this May.

    dailyhive.com

  • Nada Grocery, Vancouver's first package-free grocery store, has permanently closed. The closure is due to rental increases and rising costs. Nada will continue to operate their online store.

    dailyhive.com

  • Service Canada's new passport office in Prince George has delayed their opening date. The office was originally scheduled to open on April 25. The delay is due to an ongoing public service strike.

    mynechakovalleynow.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $20M in funding to support maintenance upgrades to Science World in Vancouver. The infrastructure upgrades includes upgrades to the theatre, electrical and HVAC systems.

    cbc.ca

  • The B.C. government is eliminating reservation fees on BC Ferries for those using the Travel Assistance Program (TAP), which allows BC residents to travel at no cost on the ferry system to receive medical services.

    ctvnews.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $13,800 to support electrification of the Langley School District's bus fleet. Funding will help in developing a transition strategy for the adoption of zero emission buses.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $457,760 in funding to the Vancouver Fireworks Festival Society, to build on the return of the Honda Celebration of Light in 2023. The three day event is the largest fireworks festival in B.C., drawing approximately 1.3M people annually.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada and BC Hydro are providing $32.7M in funding to support three decarbonization projects. The green energy projects will reduce carbon emissions through electric steam boilers and an underground powerline in Vancouver, electrification of mine haul trucks in Princeton and an underground mine and processing plant in Cariboo.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada and BC Hydro are providing $32.7M in funding to support three decarbonization projects. The green energy projects will reduce carbon emissions through electric steam boilers and an underground powerline in Vancouver, electrification of mine haul trucks in Princeton and an underground mine and processing plant in Cariboo.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada and BC Hydro are providing $32.7M in funding to support three decarbonization projects. The green energy projects will reduce carbon emissions through electric steam boilers and an underground powerline in Vancouver, electrification of mine haul trucks in Princeton and an underground mine and processing plant in Cariboo.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $50M in funding to Mitac, a not-for-profit organization which aims to support over 10,000 paid internships over five years. The internships support B.C.'s priority sectors including clean technology, life sciences, emergency management, advanced timber and agricultural technology.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $8M in funding to 14 new projects that focus on reducing plastic waste through reusing, or increasing the use of post-consumer recycled plastic. The projects aim to prevent plastic waste, reduce emissions and support clean-tech jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is expanding the Integrated Marketplace initiative to the Port of Prince Rupert. The expansion is part of the province's $11.5M in funding to match businesses with buyers to aid in solving industry problems, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving supply chains.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $8M in funding to 14 new projects that focus on reducing plastic waste through reusing, or increasing the use of post-consumer recycled plastic. The projects aim to prevent plastic waste, reduce emissions and support clean-tech jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $8M in funding to 14 new projects that focus on reducing plastic waste through reusing, or increasing the use of post-consumer recycled plastic. The projects aim to prevent plastic waste, reduce emissions and support clean-tech jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada has approved the Key Roberts Bank Terminal 2 Project, a port expansion project that will increase the port's capacity by 50%. The project will support $275B in trade passing through the ports. The project is expected to help create 1,500 direct jobs and 15,000 indirect jobs when completed.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2023-04-17 to 2023-04-21

  • The B.C. government is providing $470,000 to the Kootenay Columbia College of Integrative Health Sciences to deliver digital business management training in Nelson. Participants will receive 26 weeks of skills training, four weeks of work experience with local employers, and four weeks of follow-up support.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing an additional $10M to the Chinese Canadian Museum for renovations and operational costs, bringing total provincial funding to over $48.5M. The museum is opening July 1 in the Wing Sang Building, the oldest building in Vancouver's Chinatown.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing funding for the digitization of the BC Building Code and building permit processes to enable faster processing of permits for construction. The BC Building Code digitalization and building permit process will be piloted in 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $9M through a three-year grant to non-profit organization, Digital Technology Supercluster, to develop and adopt innovative technologies in the construction sector. The work includes digital solutions for the construction sector and designing pilot projects to test solutions.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • British Columbia's East Kootenay region is facing a shortage of marriage commissioners in the area. Commissioners must reside in the communities where the weddings take place and cannot serve for more than 10 years. B.C. currently has 384 marriage commissioners across the province.

    cbc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $30M in funding to the Comox Valley Sewer Extension South Project, which will provide wastewater services to Union Bay and Royston. The upgrades will promote the K’ómoks First Nation's growth by addressing environmental threats to waterways, which will in turn protect local shellfish, an important source of food for the Nation.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government through BC Housing has provided $17.2M towards Darry's Place in Courtenay, which provides safe and secure homes for women and children leaving violence. The 40 new homes are managed by Comox Valley Transition Society and available starting May 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1.9M to the Cowichan Valley Regional District to fund residential organics collection. The new food and yard waste collection program will help 14,000 households turn waste into compost, and reduce Cowichan Valley's greenhouse gas emissions by more than 9,500 tonnes of carbon-dioxide by 2034.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $2.9M through the Tourism Relief Fund for 14 projects to support tourism experiences in Vancouver. Funding is expected to create 430 new jobs, attract 514,000 visitors to Vancouver, restore local festivals and improve arts and culture venues.

    canada.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments have reached agreement with five B.C. First Nations on the Treaty Land Entitlement claims. The Treaty 8 agreement includes monetary compensation and the transfer of 109,385 acres of B.C. Crown land to the First Nations.

    canada.ca

  • The government's of Canada and B.C. are providing $74.3M towards the Keating Cross overpass construction in Central Saanich, which is expected to begin work this summer and be completed by spring 2025. The access will help improve traffic and road safety, and expand the Keating Business Park, where there are currently 3,000 workers.

    cbc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $236M over three years to support youth with crisis supports, transition services, and improved emergency hospital care and discharge planning. From the funding, $75M will go towards 12 new Foundry centres to support youth with mental-health and addiction support.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Wine Bar, a speciality wine bar with a selection of over 260 wines, plans to reopen in Vancouver this May. The bar closed during the COVID-19 pandemic due to public health measures.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Burnaby is providing $187M to build the new 300,000 sq. ft. Burnaby Lake Aquatic and Arena Facility, with a 50-metre Olympic-sized swimming pool and an ice rink. Construction has begun and the facility is expected to open in late 2026.

    dailyhive.com

  • Uber Eats, a food delivery app, has begun offering cannabis delivery in Metro Vancouver and Victoria. Currently, Uber Eats has seven providers who can provide cannabis. Delivery drivers are subject to handling requirements, including checking identification to confirm the customer's age and checking for signs of intoxication.

    cbc.ca

  • Metro Vancouver Transit Police are looking to recruit and onboard new Community Safety Officers this spring, to enforce transit rules and regulations and ensure safety. Training will begin this spring and officers will be on duty by the fall 2023.

    dailyhive.com

  • Awesome Place Coffee & Dessert, located in Coquitlam, plans to permanently close by the end of April. A reason for the closure was not provided, but the company plans to reopen a new location in the future.

    dailyhive.com

  • Tolko Industries Ltd., a Vernon-based wood products manufacturer, temporarily cut shifts at its Armstrong mill, effective April 17 and is planning to permanently change from two shifts to a single-shift approach at its Soda Creek mill, in Williams Lake, citing a drop in the demand for some of its wood products. A total of 130 full-time equivalent positions will be affected.

    castanet.net

  • Tolko Industries Ltd., a Vernon-based wood products manufacturer, temporarily cut shifts at its Armstrong mill, effective April 17 and is planning to permanently change from two shifts to a single-shift approach at its Soda Creek mill, in Williams Lake, citing a drop in the demand for some of its wood products. A total of 130 full-time equivalent positions will be affected.

    castanet.net
• Week of 2023-04-10 to 2023-04-14

  • Bobami, a speciality beverage store, opened a new location in Burnaby at the end of March. The spot features bubble tea and fresh beverages.

    dailyhive.com

  • Ueno Sakura, a Japanese restaurant, opened in New Westminster in March.

    dailyhive.com

  • Aloha Hawaiian grill, a Hawaiian speciality restaurant, plans to open in Richmond soon.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government has introduced legislation to make it easier for strata corporations and owners to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. The Strata Property Act and provincial initiatives on EV charging supports aims to reduce fossil fuels and meet B.C’s climate goals.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Palm Cafe, a California-themed café in Abbotsford, plans to expand its cafe and relocate within the Highstreet Shopping Centre. The cafe's new location is expected to open this summer.

    dailyhive.com

  • Real estate developer, Ledingham McAllister, is proposing to redevelop the eight-acre site near Coquitlam's city centre into 1,113 new homes. The redevelopment, Stratford Wynd, will be a large scale redevelopment, producing a 10-fold increase in the number of homes on the site.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $2M to the University of Victoria's PRIMED lab for the research of tidal turbines and other renewable energy sources, including wind, solar and low-carbon hydrogen. Funded projects will support the diversification of B.C.’s marine power sector, clean-tech job creation, and innovation.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Wild Thing Snack Bar, a restaurant located in Vancouver, plans to permanently close in April 2023. After the closure, the company will operate pop up locations for special events.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $9M to the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority to plan and install infrastructure for cruise ships to access clean electricity at Ogden Point. Over 300 cruise ships carrying around 850k passengers are expected to dock this season.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is increasing minimum wage from $15.65 to $16.75 per hour, effective June 1. The 6.9% increase in minimum wage reflects B.C.'s average annual inflation rate in 2022.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The BC Wildfire Service is conducting a pair of wildfire reduction operations in the Prince George-Vanderhoof area. The burns will be conducted intermittently between April and May, between Logan Forest Service road and Binche area. It is expected to reduce fire hazards and protect BC Hydro infrastructure.

    mynechakovalleynow.com

  • The B.C. government through BC Housing purchased a vacant apartment building in Kamloops for $12.8M, in order to preserve affordable rental housing. BC Housing aims to complete renovations and have tenants move in by summer 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Effective August 2023, the B.C. government is increasing student financial aid and easing repayment. Student loan maximums have been increased up to $280 per week for students. As well, the income threshold for loan repayment will also increase from $25,000 to $40,000.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $540,000 to the BC Construction Training Network Association, located in Metro Vancouver, to deliver training to people for high-demand jobs in the construction industry. Participants will receive 10 weeks of training, four weeks of on-the-job experience with local employers and two weeks of job search support in the construction industry.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government through BC Housing has proposed a 12-storey supportive housing tower near Renfrew SkyTrain station in Vancouver. The building will accommodate 76 studio units, as part of the City of Vancouver's plan to build 350 new permanent supportive housing units.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is investing $26M to add 250 new public charging electric vehicle stations across the province. B.C. aims to have all vehicles sold in the province be zero emissions by 2035, 5 years ahead of the original 2040 target.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • B.C. Transit has launched the new Blink RapidBus Route 95, which offers faster and more frequent service between Victoria and Langford, with an addition of 21 trips daily from Monday to Friday. B.C. Transit also plans to provide similar RapidBus services for some other areas in the future.

    timescolonist.com

  • B.C. logging truck drivers are reporting challenging working conditions across the province. The province is currently facing a shortage of truck drivers resulting in increased workloads on existing drivers.

    thetyee.ca

  • Cariboo Pulp and Paper is changing previous plans to curtail its operations at its Quesnel mill and will now stop production for the entire month of May while it performs its annual maintenance outage. Workers have been given alternative work assignments and changes to scheduling have been made to lessen the impact. Another curtailment later in the year may happen depending on fibre supply.

    mycariboonow.com

  • Parker Rooftop is planning to open a new 4000 sq. ft. sky-high dining and drinking restaurant in Vancouver, inside the Parker Hotel. The location can seat up to 140 people and includes an outdoor patio and private dining area.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-04-03 to 2023-04-07

  • Mountainside Secondary School, located in North Vancouver, has completed seismic upgrades to ensure a safer learning space for students and staff. The $23.7M project was funded by the B.C. government.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $987K in grant funding to Solid State Community Industries, to support racialized people build and launch 15 co-operative enterprises in and around Surrey in non-traditional areas, focused on working-class and in-demand services, such as cleaning, delivery, and laundry services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • London Drugs plans to permanently close its retail location on June 25 at Abbotsford’s Highstreet Shopping Centre, due to logistical challenges. The store also contains a full-service Canada Post office.

    abbynews.com

  • The Regional District of Elk Valley opened a new year-round household hazardous waste collection depot this month at the Fernie Transfer Station, for residents to safely dispose of hazardous materials and product.

    thefreepress.ca

  • The BC Used Oil Management Association opened a new recycling facility in Quesnel this March, to safely dispose of used auto fluids, including oil, antifreeze, and filters and containers.

    quesnelobserver.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $214M over three years to support schools with food programs. The funding will go towards purchasing food and hiring dedicated staff to coordinate providing meals and snacks to students.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Trans qathet, a local alliance for gender diversity and support in Powell River, were hired in March to provide province-wide two-hour staff training on transgender health care services and access for Options for Sexual Health, a provincial non-profit organization. The organization works alongside health authorities to coordinate and deliver sexual health services throughout BC.

    prpeak.com

  • The Seniors Corner, a new centre aimed at providing resources and access to services to support seniors in Terrace, opened at the Skeena Mall this month.

    terracestandard.com

  • The Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital’s new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit plans to open this spring. The facility includes three nursery beds and will provide 24/7 nursing for parents and families of babies born preterm, with a low birth weight or with a health condition that requires special care.

    nelsonstar.com

  • The City of Parksville has begun construction on the Parksville Community Park in March. The gathering plaza project aims to upgrade park infrastructure and improve safety and accessibility for multi-use facilities over the next six months.

    pqbnews.com

  • The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety is accepting applications for the 2023 Chad Bradley Scholarship Award, which provides eligible women pursuing education in Canada in the field of occupational health and safety with a $3,000 scholarship.

    canada.ca

  • HBO, an American television network, is moving production for the second season of its hit series The Last of Us from Calgary to Vancouver. The show is one of the biggest productions in B.C. and will continue supporting B.C. as Canada's largest film industry.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $8.9M over three years to partner with First Nation representatives to develop the first training initiative that will support co-management of land and resources. This year, the Guardians and Stewardship Training Initiative will make post-secondary education and skills training more affordable and accessible.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $958.6M in funding through the new transformative staffing model to improve patient care, working conditions and recruit more nurses. The focus is to improve nurses-to-patient ratio and support career development for nurses.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is supporting flexible work arrangements when feasible for public service workers, effective April 1. The policy opens up government jobs to candidates anywhere in the province where an existing government office is available, expanding opportunities to communities.

    cbc.ca

  • UP Vertical Farms, a new vertical farming enterprise in Pitt Meadows, is aiming to improve food security through locally grown and environmentally sustainable produce. The farm aims to produce 6.3M bags of salad per year, grown at a faster pace, on less agricultural land, and using less freshwater and fertilizer than traditional farming.

    cbc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1.5M in funding to the Northern Development Initiative Trust to hire 15 regional business liaison positions throughout Northern B.C. for a one-year term. The positions will support economic re-development for rural businesses and communities impacted by changes in the forestry sector.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing over $560K to Ace Trades and Technical Institute located in Surrey, to support 15-weeks of occupational training and work experience for eligible individuals interested in becoming automotive technicians, millwrights, and welders on the Lower Mainland.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing an estimated $500K in funding to support the improvement and upgrade of multi-use trail systems in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, located near Victoria. Construction is expected to be underway until June 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $2.2M in funding for over 57 First Nations and local governments in the province, to support the expansion of emergency support services through volunteer recruitment, retention, and training, including in-house training, and the purchase of emergency support services equipment.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $5.7M in funding to support three joint projects, which aim to provide new affordable homes and supports for over 135 people facing homelessness in the Greater Victoria area. The facilities will provide on-site support staff, including daily meal services, employment and life-skills programming, health, and wellness services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Foundry Sea to Sky, a new mental-health and substance-use services centre, has opened a permanent location in Squamish. Supported by the B.C. government, the centre offers integrated health and wellness services for young people between 12 and 24 years.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • U.S. hardware chain, Lowe's, will convert all of its Canadian stores into Canadian hardware outlet, Rona. Employment is not expected to be impacted however locations in Vancouver, New Westminster, Abbotsford, Victoria, and Nanaimo will undergo the rebranding.

    dailyhive.com

  • U.S. hardware chain, Lowe's, will convert all of its Canadian stores into Canadian hardware outlet, Rona. Employment is not expected to be impacted however locations in Vancouver, New Westminster, Abbotsford, Victoria, and Nanaimo will undergo the rebranding.

    dailyhive.com

  • Zellers will be opening four locations on April 4, with all of the locations within existing Hudson's Bay Company stores. The locations include Downtown Vancouver, Surrey, Abbotsford, and Kamloops. Zellers' e-commerce platform has also launched.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $119M over three years to provide a range of free contraceptives to eligible British Columbian residents. Effective April 1, B.C.’s PharmaCare will provide the free contraceptives to B.C. residents with a prescription from their physician.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2023-03-27 to 2023-03-31

  • The Government of Canada is providing $12.5M in funding to support the construction of a new healing centre in the community of T?emlúps te Secwépemc in Kamloops. The centre aims to provide a safe space and will provide trauma-informed programs to support individuals and their families in their spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical healing.

    canada.ca

  • The Francois Ootsa Sportsman’s Association, a community organization in Burns Lake, has received municipal approval to build a recreational shooting range in Southside, which aims to support programs and learning focused on ethical hunting and firearms safety.

    burnslakelakesdistrictnews.com

  • The B.C. government is providing over $440K in funding to the Vancouver ecoVillage Society, to support 17-weeks of occupational training and work experience for eligible individuals interested in becoming certified community support workers.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Regional District of Central Kootenay is seeking individuals interested in working as pool staff and lifeguards at recreation facilities in Castlegar, Nelson, and Creston. Due to shortages, the district is offering full and part-time work, and potentially subsidized training.

    nelsonstar.com

  • The B.C. government plans to introduce legislative amendments in fall 2023 which aim to provide $30M in 2023-2024 funding to the Island Coastal Economic Trust, Northern Development Initiative Trust, and the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior. Each trust will receive $10M to create new jobs and support rural communities and businesses.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Tolko Industries Ltd., a Vernon-based wood products manufacturer, announced plans to temporarily reduce overnight and weekend shifts beginning in April at the Heffley Creek mill in Kamloops, citing a drop in the demand for some of its wood products. The company did not indicate how many workers would be affected.

    kamloopsthisweek.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $2M in funding to extend and expand the Impact program run through the Delta Community Living Society, which aims to support youth between 15 and 19 with developmental disabilities find employment. The funding is expected to help over 360 youth in B.C. to find jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • BBQ Chicken, a Korean restaurant chain, plans to open a new location in Burnaby this May.

    dailyhive.com

  • Tea Drop Cafe, a new café offering hot beverages and bubble tea, opened in Vancouver in January.

    dailyhive.com

  • Pho & Roll by Wooden Fish, a new Vietnamese restaurant, plans to open in West Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Playland, an amusement park in Vancouver, is hiring for 200 jobs, including roles in games, rides, guest experience, maintenance, and food and beverage, to support park operations beginning in June.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government and Providence Health Care plan to build a new 240-bed care home in Vancouver, to support the growing demands for high-quality long-term community-based care in the city. The project is currently in the procurement phase, with construction expected to start in fall 2025 and be complete in fall 2028.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing over $12M in funding for 281 not-for-profit organizations, to support public safety and environmental programs which aim to address emergency preparedness and community safety and conservation and environmental awareness.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing nearly $10.4M in funding to the BC Association of Friendship Centres, to expand access, education, and training opportunities over the next five years for over 500 Indigenous youth in B.C. during the annual Gathering Our Voices Indigenous youth leadership conference.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and Interior Health plan to open a new urgent and primary care centre in the community of Rutland, located in Kelowna. The facility is expected to open in Fall 2023 and create over 31 full-time jobs, including family doctors, nurse practitioners, nurses, social workers, physiotherapists, and life-skills workers.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government plans to open a new complex care housing location in New Westminster, to deliver services to people facing overlapping mental health, substance use, homelessness, trauma or brain injuries.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government announced the successful expansion of high-speed internet infrastructure in the First Nations community of Coldwater 1 near Merritt this month. The jointly funded $358K project supports more than 120 households.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government will provide $21.8M in funding over three years to permanently increase the number of provincially subsidized seats from 20 to 40, for B.C. veterinary students attending the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing one-time grants totalling $45M in funding for all 71 public libraries and for organizations that help libraries deliver their services in the province. The funding aims to expand programs and services and facilitate better access to information and technology.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada and the Town of Comox will provide over $485K in joint funding to modernize the Comox Community Centre. The infrastructure project aims to upgrade the centre with more energy efficient electric heat pumps.

    canada.ca

  • Ubuntu Canteen, a restaurant and café located in Vancouver, plans to permanently close on April 16.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-03-20 to 2023-03-24

  • The B.C. government has partnered with the Columbia Basin Trust to provide $2.5M in funding to support 20 projects which aim to contribute to wildfire risk reduction in the Columbia Basin and create new jobs.

    e-know.ca

  • The B.C. government has partnered with the Northern Development Initiative Trust to provide $75M in funding to support projects which aim to expand cellular coverage along 550KM of provincial highways by 2027 and enable better safety for travellers along key transportation routes across British Columbia.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • BC Ferries is seeking to hire more than 500 new employees for customer service and terminal attendant roles for all its sailing locations, with the aim to reduce crew shortages and cancelled sailings.

    cheknews.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing nearly $30M in funding to extend the Marine Training Program for four additional years, and to continue delivering marine training opportunities for Indigenous Peoples, Northerners, and women.

    newswire.ca

  • Benkei Ramen, a ramen restaurant located in Vancouver, permanently closed in March.

    dailyhive.com

  • Forêt Noire Café opened its new café location in Vancouver in March.

    dailyhive.com

  • Pepper Lunch, a chain restaurant, permanently closed its Vancouver location in March.

    dailyhive.com

  • Trattoria, an Italian restaurant located in Vancouver, plans to indefinitely close on April 6.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $44.8M in funding to the Okanagan College Kelowna campus to support the creation of a new Centre for Food, Wine, and Tourism, which will include modern teaching spaces, food labs, beverage research and development facilities, and common spaces for students to pursue expanded occupational training and work experience programs in food and hospitality industries.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing over $200K to YMCA BC in the Lower Mainland, to support occupational training and work experience for about 12 eligible individuals interested in becoming fire-protection technicians.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government announced $261.1M in funding to support school maintenance projects across the province. Projects include $41M to upgrade heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems at 101 schools, and $13 million will go toward the purchase of at least 67 new school buses.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $479M in funding to TransLink, to support the expansion of transit services and ensure reliable public transit that connects people to jobs, schools, and essential services in Metro Vancouver.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $2.4M in funding to support eleven new projects which aim to provide increased housing, public safety and economic development opportunities for people living in northern B.C. communities experiencing rapid economic growth.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Island Health plans to open a new integrated health-care centre in Sooke. The new facility will combine the community’s medical facilities in the future development to facilitate access to improved health services and create new opportunities for healthcare providers. Funding is also being provided to hire an Indigenous cultural safety liaison to support the project while planning is underway.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government will provide up to $3M in funding to help bring access to high-speed internet to more than 500 households in the rural, remote, and Indigenous communities of Gitanyow and Stewart in northwestern B.C.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Island Health plans to build a new 306-bed care home in Colwood, to support the growing demands for high-quality long-term community-based care in the region. The $224M project is expected to begin construction in 2025 and complete in 2027.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has partnered with the Sts’ailes First Nation to support the development of the Sts’ailes Community Care Campus, which aims to provide improved access to First Nations-led primary care for people living in Harrison Mills, and north of the Fraser River between Agassiz and Mission. Construction on the permanent facility is expected to begin this year.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is currently accepting applications from enrolled students interested in bursaries to help pay costs of early childhood education programs at post-secondary institutions in the province. Students can apply until April 3 and may be eligible for as much as $5,000 per semester.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $6.2M in funding to support a joint project to replace two aging apartment buildings in Surrey through the development of a new 89-unit affordable rental building for seniors with low incomes. Construction is expected to begin in fall 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Broadway Subway Project in Vancouver reached a new construction milestone in March as a second tunnel-boring machine broke through to the future Mount Pleasant Station. The project aims to expand SkyTrain service along the Broadway corridor, which is B.C.’s second-largest jobs centre. More than 13,000 jobs are estimated to be supported during the construction phase.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $65M in funding to the City of Prince Rupert, to support infrastructure improvements and upgrades for its water-distribution system, to ensure reliable water services for the community.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada and the City of Vancouver are providing over $36.2M In joint funding to support Vancouver’s Rain City Strategy, which aims to enhance the use of natural infrastructure to prevent urban flooding and improve water quality.

    canada.ca

  • Transport Canada is providing up to $23M to Global Agriculture Trans-Loading Inc. for a project that seeks to improve rail capacity for the agriculture sector in Surrey and enable Canadian agricultural products to reach global markets faster.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $3M in funding for three projects in British Columbia through Health Canada’s Substance Use and Addictions Program. The funding aims to reduce social barriers and support greater prevention, harm reduction and treatment services including access to safer drug supply programs.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $25.7M in funding to support 10 Vancouver-based organizations to commercialize new technologies and innovations in various sectors and facilitate access to new markets. The funding is also expected to accelerate business growth and enable the creation of new jobs.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2023-03-13 to 2023-03-17

  • North Vancouver’s Shipyards Night Market (SYNM), a seasonal night market, is reopening from May 12 to September 15, 2023. The night market features a beer garden, live music, market vendors and food trucks.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $1M in funding to support nearly 140 sport organizations throughout the province. The funding aims to aid sport-related events that attract visitors to B.C. and enable athletes to compete locally.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and Telus are providing approximately $529K in joint funding to expand access to high-speed internet in more than 130 households on Westham Island, a community located in Delta.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $25M over three years for the creation of dedicated police-prosecutor-probation officer teams aimed at supporting the Repeat Violent Offending Intervention Initiative and enhance community safety. Over 55 jobs are expected to be created.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has issued an Environmental Assessment certificate for the construction and operation of the Cedar LNG project, a liquefied natural gas facility and marine export terminal located on Haisla-Nation-owned land in Kitimat. Nearly 500 people are expected to be employed at the facility during construction and approximately 100 people would be employed full-time when operational.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government plans to expand the Provincial Tuition Waiver Program to all B.C. former youth in care at any age beginning on August 1, 2023. The program originally waived tuition and fees for post-secondary education for former youth in care between the ages of 19 and 26.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $30M in funding to continue supporting the implementation of Canada’s National Dementia Strategy and accelerate innovation in aging and brain health to support the well-being of older adults facing cognitive, emotional, and physical challenges.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $840K in funding to support the development of a 1.5km multi-use path along Prairie Avenue in Port Coquitlam.

    canada.ca

  • The One Sixty, a wine bar and café, plans to open Port Moody’s first wine bar soon. The city currently has six craft breweries and one establishment for spirits.

    tricitynews.com

  • JYSK, a Danish home goods retailer, will permanently close one of it Coquitlam locations this May. The closure is due to the expiring lease.

    tricitynews.com

  • The City of Vancouver is expecting an all-time record of 331 cruise ship visits with up to 1.3M passengers for the 2023 cruise ship season at Canada Place. The cruise ship passengers boarding and disembarking will support jobs and provide economic support to local restaurants, shops, hotels, and entertainment businesses.

    dailyhive.com

  • Karen's Diner, an Australia-based restaurant, announced a pop-up experience in Vancouver from May 13 to 21.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government has provided a $700K grant to the B.C. division of the Canadian Mental Health Association, to support the development of free online resources and enhanced training programs which aim to facilitate safe and inclusive workplaces.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Kind Cafe and Eatery, a vegan cafe in Vancouver, will permanently close in April.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of Canada and TransLink are providing the City of Surrey with $21.8M towards the widening of 152 Street and Nicomekl bridge project to protect the transportation route from flooding. The City of Surrey approved spending $46M towards the project. The construction is expected to begin this month and completed by summer 2025.

    dailyhive.com

  • BC Transit will be halting bus services in the Fraser Valley region, including Agassiz-Harrison, the Central Fraser Valley, Chilliwack and Hope from March 9 to 11. The handyDART services will remain at full capacity.

    globalnews.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing 150 affordable homes, including transition houses, a short-term shelter and housing, for women and children. The new homes are opening or are under construction in four different locations, including New Hazelton, Lower Post, Duncan and Port Coquitlam.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $1.7M in funding to support three Indigenous-led active transportations projects in Northern B.C., including the Nisga’a Village of Gitlaxt’aamix and Wiset First Nation for safer and accessible transportation. The infrastructure projects include new sidewalks, pedestrian pathways/bridges, bike lanes, trails and solar-powered lighting.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $2.5M in funding to support 10 projects throughout the Fraser Valley and Fraser Canyon region, which aims to revitalize public spaces and support tourism related businesses. The project aims to improve community wellness, create jobs and grow the local economy.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.2M towards 12 projects across the West Kootenays to support businesses, upgrade infrastructure and enhance tourism experiences. The projects aim to grow economic opportunities, create jobs and improve community wellness.

    canada.ca

  • 37 new affordable rental homes for low- or moderate-income seniors, individuals, and families, are under construction in Tofino. The jointly funded project is supported by the provincial and federal governments and municipal organizations.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has provided $40.9M in funding to support an expansion project at the Kwantlen Park Secondary School located in Surrey. The project aims to provide new learning spaces for 500 additional students.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has approved the development of the Blackwater Gold project, a planned open-pit gold mine located in central British Columbia, approximately 160 km southwest of Prince George. The project is expected to create 825 direct full-time jobs per year during the construction and expansion phases of the mine's development.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Kent’s Kitchen, a restaurant located in Vancouver’s Chinatown, announced plans to permanently close in April.

    dailyhive.com

  • Sempre Uno, a new Italian restaurant, opened in North Vancouver this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Trail is seeking individuals interested in working as pool staff and lifeguards. Full and part-time work is on the offer, and potentially subsidized training.

    nelsonstar.com

  • Le Parfait, a new Lebanese sweets restaurant, opened in Vancouver this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cool House Filipino Fusion opened its restaurant in Vancouver in February.

    dailyhive.com

  • Trees Coffee, a BC-based café chain, opened a new location in Surrey this month.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-03-06 to 2023-03-10

  • Good Earth Coffeehouse, a Canadian-founded coffee chain, has opened a new location in downtown Victoria.

    dailyhive.com

  • Mama Said Pizza Co., a brick-and-mortar restaurant, announced plans to open a 1,100 sq. ft. location in Port Moody.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government through the Growing Communities Fund is providing over $15M to the City of Kamloops for new infrastructure. The new amenities include recreation facilities, transit services, parks and water treatment plants.

    kamloopsthisweek.com

  • Nordstrom, an upscale U.S.-based retailer will permanently close of all its Canadian stores by the end of June, impacting 643 jobs in B.C.'s two locations. The closures include 230,000 sq. ft. Nordstrom store in Vancouver and the Nordstrom Rack in Langley.

    cbc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $200M in funding for food security to ensure residents have better access to an increased supply of affordable, local food. The funding aims to boost both the province's food bank system and agricultural production. Funding for Indigenous communities will also help with food availability, cost and food security.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $3.9M in funding to four projects to support B.C.'s Francophone and Francophile communities. The projects will contribute to Francophone and Francophile businesses, support and maintain jobs, aid tourism operators and enhance cultural hubs.

    canada.ca

  • Vanprop has partnered with Bosa Properties to redevelop Lansdowne Shopping Centre, located in Richmond, into a residential centre with 1,075 residential units in the first phase, including 150 affordable rental units and 150 market rental units. If the first development phase is approved, construction is expected to start in March 2025.

    richmond-news.com

  • The B.C. government, through the Growing Communities Fund, is providing $37M in funding to Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Anmore and Belcarra. Funding will support local services, infrastructure and community amenities.

    tricitynews.com

  • Salina Cheng Music Academy, located in Coquitlam, permanently closed this month. The closure is due to financial pressures from the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent loss of two piano teachers and a receptionist.

    tricitynews.com

  • Local developer Marcon is proposing a 32-storey hotel with 578 rooms in downtown Vancouver to support tourism. The building will include the hotel, a restaurant as well as retail and office space.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $586M in funding to health-care treatments and recovery services. The funding aims to add over 195 treatment and recovery beds throughout B.C. and establish improved supports for people with concurrent mental-health and addiction challenges.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $233K in funding to expand Young Entrepreneur Leadership Launchpad (YELL) Canada programming in Terrace, Smithers, Vanderhoof, Prince George and Quesnel. The programming aims to provide access for over 180 students to entrepreneurship and leadership opportunities.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $300K in funding to the Daylu Dena Council of the Kaska Nation for their Capacity Building Strategy project, which aims to plant 10,000 trees to help rehabilitate and restore lands impacted by the Lutz Creek Wildfire, near Lower Post.

    canada.ca

  • Mishmish, a new Middle Eastern bakery and café, plans to open in Vancouver this year.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cobs Bread, an Australian bakery chain, announced plans to open a new location in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Chinese Canadian Museum, located in Vancouver, is expected to officially open in July 2023. The jointly funded facility aims to help revitalize the city’s Chinatown district.

    dailyhive.com

  • IKEA, a Swedish home goods retail chain, is seeking to expand its store location in Richmond to a total floor area of more than 507,000 sq. ft. The City of Richmond is currently considering the proposed project.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is allocating $150M for upgrades to the province's 911 emergency communications system. The project aims to build a technologically enhanced emergency network which includes accessibility features and provides public safety for people living and travelling in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Governments of Canada and British Columbia have signed an agreement in principle which aims to provide $27.47B in federal funding over 10 years to improve health care services in B.C. Funding also includes $3.32B aimed at supporting shared health care priorities and immediate funding of $273M to address urgent needs, especially in pediatric hospitals and emergency rooms, and surgery backlogs.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities are providing $487K in joint-funding to the City of Prince Rupert, to support a pilot project to install a new wastewater treatment technology and study how it can be integrated with local soils, plants, and other features of the natural landscape.

    canada.ca

  • Wonderworld Montessori Academy is planning to build its second location in Vancouver, with the facility accommodating up to 86 children. A total of 16 licensed staff will operate the 11,730 sq. ft. facility.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-02-27 to 2023-03-03

  • The Government of Canada is providing $5M in funding to support 25 research projects which aim to examine existing standards, best practices, and guidelines for the delivery of mental health and substance use services for children, youth and young adults, and provide improved care and service delivery.

    canada.ca

  • Seabridge Gold, a Canadian resource exploration company, has partnered with the Nisga’a and Tahltan First Nations on the Seabridge KSM Project located in near Stewart. The mining project is expected to create over 1,550 onsite jobs annually during the five-year construction phase, and 1,400 onsite jobs once the mine is in full production.

    thenorthernview.com

  • Thompson Rivers University, located in Kamloops, plans to begin offering a new Master of Nursing-Nurse Practitioner program this year. The full-time, two-year program will allow graduates to work as independent nurse practitioners who can assess a patient’s health, prescribe medications, order, and interpret tests and refer patients to specialists.

    kamloopsthisweek.com

  • Tree Hugger-Wellness Bar, a new restaurant located in Hope, opened in February.

    hopestandard.com

  • The Canadian Blood Services plans to open a new plasma donation centre location in Abbotsford this April, to increase the national plasma supply.

    abbynews.com

  • The Coombs-Hilliers Volunteer Fire Department, located near Qualicum Beach, is currently seeking new volunteer firefighters to provide fire and emergency response support to the community.

    pqbnews.com

  • The Oak Bay Marina restaurant, located in Victoria, permanently closed in March due to labour shortages, supply issues and pressures from inflation.

    timescolonist.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $2.5M in funding to the Canadian Coalition for Seniors Mental Health, for the development and dissemination of guidelines, training, tools and resources for health care providers, caregivers, and seniors, in order to promote and protect the mental health of older adults.

    canada.ca

  • Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is allocating $13M in funding to enhance the Youth Employment and Skills Program, which aims to help support approximately 1200 jobs for youth in the agriculture sector. The program is now open and accepting applications.

    canada.ca

  • Air Canada plans to introduce direct route from Vancouver to Washington, D.C. The service is expected to seasonally operate five flights per week starting on June 1, 2023.

    dailyhive.com

  • BC Parks is currently seeking experienced individuals interested in working as park rangers and other related roles.

    dailyhive.com

  • Pot Empire, a new hot-pot restaurant, opened in Burnaby in February.

    dailyhive.com

  • Malaysia Street Milk Tea & Dessert opened a new restaurant location in Richmond in February.

    dailyhive.com

  • Wicked Café opened a new café and bakery location in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $65.3M to support the development of a new 485-seat elementary school in Kamloops. Construction on the school is anticipated to start in spring 2024 and open in summer 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is implementing measures to reduce emergency room wait times for people facing mental-health crises. The changes include quicker access to care and expanded authority for assessment from physicians to nurse practitioners.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is increasing the budget of its Employment Standard Branch by nearly $12M over the next three years to hire up to 33 additional full-time employees to support increased demand its services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Royal BC Museum will commence construction this summer on its collections and research building, located in Colwood. The $270M project is funded by the B.C. government and is expected create over 1,000 direct and indirect jobs until its completion in Summer 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $440M in funding to BC Cancer to support the improvement of cancer care delivery. The funding aims to expand cancer-care teams and service hours, revise pay structures for medical staff, improve cancer screening, support cancer research, increase Indigenous patient support, and aid patients who must travel for care.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Canfor Corporation, a BC-based forest products company, has begun exploring alternative uses for its pulp mill located in Taylor, as the company does not expect the operations to restart.

    alaskahighwaynews.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $500M in funding to BC Ferries, to prevent double-digit fare increases due to inflation and maintain annual average fare increases below 3% a year.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-02-20 to 2023-02-24

  • The Government of Canada is providing $46.3M in funding to support Trucking Human Resources Canada’s Driving Economic Recovery project, which aims to provide training subsidies and wage subsidies to support the recruitment, training and onboarding of up to 1,400 new truck drivers and 1,200 workers for other in-demand occupations within the trucking sector.

    canada.ca

  • Bed Bath & Beyond, a US-based home goods retail chain, plans to shutdown its operations this year in Canada, which includes the permanent closure its store locations in Kamloops and Kelowna.

    kamloopsthisweek.com

  • Bed Bath & Beyond, a US-based home goods retail chain, plans to shutdown its operations this year in Canada, which includes the permanent closure its store location in Victoria.

    dailyhive.com

  • Baroness Bubble Tea, a speciality beverage chain, opened its second location in Vancouver in February.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Ocean Legacy Foundation opened its new Ocean Plastic Depot in February, a marine waste sorting site at the Seven Mile Landfill and Recycling Centre in the North Island, between Port McNeill and the Port Alice.

    northislandgazette.com

  • The B.C. First Nations Forestry Council is seeking interested applicants for the Indigenous Forestry Scholarship Program, which exposes Indigenous talent to BC forestry sector through work, study, and mentorship opportunities.

    forestrycouncil.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing a further $180M in funding to the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, which aims to support projects that help local governments and First Nations reduce risks from future disasters related to natural hazards and climate change.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing nearly $1.2M in funding to Biathlon Canada, to support the promotion of biathlon across Canada and to support high-performance athletes at the national and international levels.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $46.5M in funding for the Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery, an organization aimed at developing workforce training solutions for a net-zero economy. The funding will support the Quick Train Canada project, to provide training for 10,000 Canadians with access to fully funded micro-credentials to help increase their skills and competencies.

    canada.ca

  • Conifex Timber Inc., a BC-based forest products manufacturer, plans to temporarily curtail production at its sawmill in Mackenzie for two weeks, as of February 21, 2023, due to rail transportation challenges.

    globenewswire.com

  • Arc’teryx, a Canadian outdoor equipment retailer, is seeking to hire for 100 job openings, including 70 hybrid or remote roles at is headquarters located in North Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Bed Bath & Beyond, a US-based home goods retail chain, plans to shutdown its operations this year in Canada, which includes the permanent closure of all locations in the Lower Mainland.

    dailyhive.com

  • Lotus Pond, a Chinese restaurant located in Victoria, plans to permanently close at the end of April 2023.

    dailyhive.com

  • Tamaly Shop, a new Mexican grocery market and café, opened in February.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cake It Easy, a new bakery located in Vancouver, opened in February.

    dailyhive.com

  • Interior Health has signed a contract to begin construction on the Cariboo Memorial Hospital redevelopment project located in Williams Lake. The $366M project is expected to be completed in 2029, with the first phase of construction beginning in Spring 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $20M in funding to support 74 local and First-Nations-led active transportation projects in the province. The projects include multi-use pathways, protected bike lanes, pedestrian bridges, and regional connections, as well as lighting, sidewalks and other safety improvements.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $8.2M in funding to the Canadian Mental Health Association of British Columbia, to support the Links to Employment program and to expand the program into new communities. The program provides supports and services, including employment, for people who face multiple and persistent barriers to employment.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing over $1.6M to the Young Women’s Christian Association in Vancouver, to support occupational training and work experience for 50 eligible women interested in becoming professional truck drivers in the Lower Mainland.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $5.3M in funding to 49 non-profit groups for capital projects in 2023. Projects include upgrading arts and recreation facilities and providing improved services for vulnerable communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • 130 new affordable rental homes for low- or moderate-income seniors, individuals, families, and people living with disabilities, opened in Langford and Victoria in February. The joint-funded projects were completed in partnership with the B.C. government and municipal organizations.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1.7M in initial funding and $1.7M annually to the University of British Columbia to establish 20 additional seats for midwifery programs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing over $460K to the Complete School of Truck Transportation in Victoria, to support occupational training and work experience for eligible individuals interested in becoming professional truck drivers in the Greater Victoria Area.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government plans to allocate $25M to support forest management measures in collaboration with First Nations, and double the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund to $180M that aims to helps mills transition to manufacturing high-value wood products.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-02-13 to 2023-02-17

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $700K in funding to Squash Canada, to support the promotion of squash across Canada and high-performance athletes at the national and international levels.

    canada.ca

  • Flair Airlines plans to introduce a direct route from Kamloops to Edmonton. The service is expected to operate three times weekly beginning June 15, 2023.

    kamloopsthisweek.com

  • The City of Vancouver is providing nearly $2.5M in grant funding for organizations to hire individuals experiencing homelessness, and other low-income people, to perform street cleaning.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Burnaby is seeking to develop a 21-acre organic waste recycling facility in Foreshore Park. The $182M project is awaiting approval to begin construction in 2024.

    dailyhive.com

  • The community of Fort Nelson has approved the development of a McDonalds restaurant just off the Alaska Highway at Airport Drive. Construction is expected to begin once a building permit has been issued and could be completed as early as October 2023.

    dailyhive.com

  • WestJet plans to introduce a direct route from Vancouver to Nashville, Tennessee. The service is expected to operate twice a week from May to October.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Legion Veterans Village, which comprises of approximately 100 new affordable rental homes for veterans, first responders, legion members, families and individuals, opened in Surrey this month. The B.C. government provided $12M in funding to support project.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $4.5M in funding to support the Rural Business and Community Recovery Initiative, a provincial program which helps to hire advisers that work with local communities and businesses to access economic development services and strategies.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has implemented the Growing Communities Fund, which aims to provide a one-time $1 billion fund in grants to all B.C.’s municipalities and regional districts, to fund community infrastructure and amenities. Funding is expected to be distributed by the end of March 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Our Place Society, located in Saanich, opened this month. The building comprises of 52 new homes with 24/7 support services for people experiencing homelessness. The project has received over $18M in provincial funding and will receive approximately $1.26 million in annual operating funding.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $5M in funding to support shoreline stabilization and dike projects along the Fraser River, which aim to help ensure flood protection for communities including the Sqwá First Nation, Shxwhá:y Village and Chilliwack. Construction is expected to begin in 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $17M in funding to support the construction of 155 new affordable rental homes in Burnaby for seniors with low to moderate incomes. The jointly funded project is expected to be completed by 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The new Tech Collider, a multi-purpose learning centre and collaboration space, at the British Columbia Institute of Technology in Vancouver opened this month. The B.C. government provided $9.85M in funding to support the development.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $830,000 in funding to support six projects throughout the Skeena-Bulkley Valley which aim to revitalize public spaces and enhance tourism.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $16.2M in funding over three years to expand youth peer support services and social work job training at Foundry centres across the province, which offer integrated health and wellness services for young people between 12 and 24 years.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $14.5M in funding to support two projects with the British Columbia Institute of Technology, located in Burnaby. Over $9.3M will support a training for gas turbine maintenance, repair, and overhaul, which is expected to create 160 new jobs. And, over $5.3M will be used to create a Biomanufacturing Training Centre.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $225K in funding over two years for AthletesCAN, to support national athletes through the development of an online platform that can provide centralized information and resources concerning the Canadian sport system.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $2.3M in funding to the Skills Centre Society, a social development organization based in Trail. The funding will facilitate the Skills Centre Eco-Renovation Project, which aims to provide utility and accessibility upgrades for the facility.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada provided $98,000 in funding to Gabriola Island Recycling Organization, which aims to launch a textile repurposing project for Indigenous, women and youth entrepreneurs on Gabriola Island and Central Vancouver Island. The funding is expected to create eight jobs and help 30 local small businesses.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $1.8M to the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation, to support community revitalization projects in Vancouver’s Chinatown that includes new lighting, signage, and other building improvements. The funding is expected to create up to 50 jobs for underrepresented groups.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $50,000 in funding to the British Columbia Economic Development Association for the development of educational services to support underrepresented groups with economic recovery from the impact of COVID-19 and highlight best practices for supporting Indigenous, women, and youth entrepreneurs.

    canada.ca

  • The Forest Enhancement Society of BC has provided $500K in funding to the City of Quesnel, to provide training on wildfire mitigation and support the creation of new jobs.

    quesnelobserver.com
• Week of 2023-02-06 to 2023-02-10

  • The Government of Canada is providing $485,410 in funding for Community Futures North Okanagan to expand the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot project in the Southern Interior of B.C., which aims to help smaller communities attract newcomers and provide settlement services and mentoring opportunities.

    canada.ca

  • Cariboo Pulp and Paper, a pulp mill in Quesnel, announced plans to curtail operations in mid-April for a month and then for another month in the third quarter due to fibre supply challenges.

    westfraser.com

  • The City of Fernie is planning to conduct a wildfire fuel management in the Ridgemont area to reduce the risk of wildfire to the community. The $185K jointly funded project is expected to be completed over an 8-week period beginning this month.

    thefreepress.ca

  • The City of Prince George will host the 2025 Special Olympics B.C. Summer Games. The event is expected to host around 1,100 athletes, 300 coaches and support staff.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The Oak Bay Library branch of the Greater Victoria Public Library will be closed for up to 12 weeks to remove asbestos.

    timescolonist.com

  • The BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver has been approved to develop a new $222M Centre for Children and Youth Living with Health Complexity facility. Work on the new centre is expected to begin in 2025, with completion in 2028.

    dailyhive.com

  • TransLink is planning to develop a new transit depot on 20-acres of vacant land in Vancouver, to provide operations, maintenance, and a parking hub for a future fleet of over 400 electric-battery buses.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cafe D’Lite Express, a Singaporean and Malaysian restaurant located at the Aberdeen Centre food court in Richmond, plans to permanently close in March.

    dailyhive.com

  • Skeena Sawmills Ltd. is indefinitely closing its sawmill and pellet plant in Terrace, B.C. on February 8, due to high operating costs from a combined lack of a secure fibre supply and weak markets. Over 150 employees are expected to be impacted, in addition to the mill’s logging contractors and other suppliers.

    terracestandard.com

  • The District of Kitimat will receive over $910K in joint funding through the Organics Infrastructure Program, to support the development of a new composting facility. The facility is expected to reduce waste and create jobs while improving soil health.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has implemented its Integrated Child and Youth teams in a number of smaller BC communities to provide new services and supports for children and youth facing mental-health and substance-use challenges.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Kanaka Pizza permanently closed its pizza restaurant in Maple Ridge this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $46.5M in funding over five years to Ocean Networks Canada, an initiative of the University of Victoria, to support the enhancement of ocean monitoring systems for data collection and observation.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing nearly $170K in funding to support the development of a composting facility on Salt Spring Island, that will process the community’s organic materials.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has provided approximately $2 million in funding to the Justice Institute of B.C., to expand its paramedic training programs for over 130 students in communities around the province

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Sunnyside Elementary School, located in Surrey, has added ten new classrooms through a $11.4M project funded by the B.C. government. The project has enabled a 250-seat expansion and space for additional childcare services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $23.4M in funding through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund to 49 Indigenous and local governments in the province, to support projects aimed at improving climate change resiliency.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing approximately $5M in funding through the Indigenous Resilience and Recovery Grant Initiative, to support 23 Indigenous-led non-profit organizations that deliver critical programs and services to individuals and families.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-01-30 to 2023-02-03

  • The Maritime Museum of B.C., located in Victoria, has received a $17K grant from the Federal government, to support the purchase of a large-format scanner, which aims to digitalize collections and exhibits for the public.

    timescolonist.com

  • Canfor Corporation, a BC-based forest products company, announced plans to temporarily close its sawmill in Houston this spring for an extended period, to facilitate a major redevelopment project.

    canfor.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $3M in funding to support the launch of the Passenger Transportation Accessibility Program, which aims to offset the extra costs that taxi owner-operators face in providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The governments of Canada and B.C. provided $140K in funding to the Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce, to support the delivery of the Prep Chef Certificate program by North Island College. The program aims to support occupational training and work experience for individuals interested hospitality careers.

    pqbnews.com

  • 888 Caffe Express, a café located in Vancouver, announced plans to permanently close this February.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Town of Sidney is seeking to provide $10M over the next 10 years to improve active transportation networks, including sidewalks, bike paths, and trails. The project is currently awaiting community feedback.

    timescolonist.com

  • The City of Terrace is seeking funding for roadway improvements for Lanfear Hill in Terrace, including new transportation pathways for pedestrians, cyclist, and vehicles.

    terracestandard.com

  • The governments of Canada and B.C. are providing $5.2M in joint funding to Foresight Canada, which aims to use the funding to establish the BC Net Zero Innovation Network and drive the development of clean technology solutions B.C.’s forestry, mining, and water sectors. The project is expected to create over 240 new jobs.

    canada.ca

  • Western Forest Products announced the closure this month of its Alberni-Pacific Division facility, located in Port Alberni, British Columbia. The mill, which employs over 100 workers, has been curtailed since last fall due to weak lumber markets.

    cbc.ca

  • The governments of Canada, B.C., and Fort St. James have provided $8M in joint funding to support the development of 36 new rental units for low and fixed-income seniors in in Fort St. James. Construction is expected to be complete by summer 2023.

    cmhc-schl.gc.ca

  • The governments of B.C. and Canada provided $540K in joint funding to four BC-based companies, to support projects focused on food security and innovation in agriculture. The funding is expected to create over 30 full-time jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $30M in funding to Island Health, to support the improvement of health-care services, including emergency care, in Port Hardy and the Mount Waddington region.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Family Place, childcare centre that can accommodate 36 children on Mayne Island, opened this month. The project received approximately $1.3M in joint funding from the Government of Canada and B.C, through the ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing over $350K to Self Rise Training Society in Surrey, to support occupational training and work experience for about 15 eligible individuals interested in becoming medical laboratory assistants in the Lower Mainland.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $500K in funding to iFood Packaging Systems Corporation, a BC-based company that aims to develop innovative solutions to improve food safety and plant health.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada and B.C. announced plans to install up to 50 earthquake early warning sensors in high seismic risk areas by 2024, to strengthen emergency readiness infrastructure for coastal communities.

    canada.ca

  • Canfor Corporation, a BC-based forest products company, announced plans to permanently close its sawmill and pellet plant in Chetwyn, due to limited long-term fibre supply.

    canfor.com

  • The Government of Canada provided over $800K in funding to support Safi Enterprises Inc., a BC-based company which aims to research and develop conversion systems for organic waste, known as biomass, that can serve rural and Indigenous communities.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing approximately $39 million over three years, starting in 2023, to support proposals from Indigenous-led organizations and groups that aim to advance Indigenous early learning and childcare programs.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government announced plans to build a new Plant and Animal Health Centre in the Fraser Valley, to provide laboratory services to the province’s agricultural and veterinary sectors. The business plan is expected to be completed in late 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Petpls Café & Supply, a new café and pet retail store in Richmond, opened in January.

    dailyhive.com

  • Wildlight Kitchen + Bar opened its new restaurant location in Vancouver this February.

    dailyhive.com

  • Katsuya, a Japanese chain restaurant, permanently closed its Vancouver location in January.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-01-23 to 2023-01-27

  • The Woodgrove Senior Citizens Housing Society has received $9.3M in federal and provincial funding to support the development of 62 new rental units for moderate and low-income seniors in Nanaimo. Construction on the project is expected to be complete by summer 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has begun construction this January on a fibre-to-the-home project that aims bring access to high-speed internet to more than 500 households in six Indigenous communities in the province.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government plans to open a new permanent shelter space in Cranbrook, to support those that are at risk of, or currently experiencing homelessness. The 40-bed shelter is expected to open in late 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $50M in funding to the Forest Enhancement Society of BC in January, to support projects and programs that increase fibre supply aimed at keeping people working and local mills running, while also mitigating wildfire risks and reducing climate emissions.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government announced the successful expansion of high-speed internet infrastructure in the Caribou region this month. The jointly funded $5.9M project supports more than 1,300 households and six more communities in the Cariboo region.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is currently accepting applications from Indigenous organizations and other groups that work with people facing homelessness for the Province’s Homelessness Community Action Grant, which awards grants for as much as $50,000 to support homelessness projects.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government plans to install new technologies that monitors commercial vehicle speeds for improved safety on Highway 5A, near Merritt. Construction is expected to begin in late spring and be completed in the fall.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. and Federal government is providing $18.8M in joint funding to support the reopening of Paper Excellence’s Crofton Mill facility, which shutdown in October due to poor economic conditions. More than 100 jobs have been restored from the funding.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing approximately $13M for the restoration of the Radium Hot Springs Aquacourt in Kootenay National Park. The project aims to upgrade pool infrastructure to enhance public safety and incorporate green technologies.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing nearly $135K in funding through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program, to support energy-efficiency renovations at the Musqueam Elders Centre in Vancouver.

    canada.ca

  • The City of Coquitlam is seeking to launch and operate its own a public e-scooter share service. The process to procure an e-scooter company is currently underway.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cactus Club Cafe, a Canadian-based restaurant chain, opened a new 335-seat location in Coquitlam in January.

    dailyhive.com

  • Ayam Zaman, a new restaurant specialized in Middle Eastern cuisine, opened in Coquitlam in December.

    dailyhive.com

  • Old Yale Brewing Abbotsford, a new brewery and restaurant in Abbotsford, plans to open its new 220-seat location this winter.

    dailyhive.com

  • TransLink is seeking to hire more than 500 new bus drivers in Metro Vancouver this year.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government launched a new licensing program this month to provide small and medium-sized secondary wood products manufacturers with dedicated fibre supply. The BC Timber Sales Value-Added Manufacturing Program is restricted to facilities producing high-value products, such as mass timber, plywood, veneer, panelling and flooring.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Bao Place plans to open a new restaurant location in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Air Transat, a Canadian-based airline, announced the closure of its operations at the Vancouver International Airport due to economic concerns. Over 200 employees are expected to be impacted.

    ctvnews.ca

  • Dover Bay Secondary School, located in Nanaimo, has added four new classrooms through a $3M project jointly funded by the provincial government and the school board. The project also added a learning hub, fitness centre and additional washrooms.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Sinclair Group Forest Products announced temporary production curtailments at its lumber operations at Apollo Forest Products in Fort St. James, Lakeland Mills in Prince George, and Nechako Lumber Co. in Vanderhoof, due to weak market conditions and fibre supply constraints. The company expects the curtailment to last two weeks, beginning January 30.

    ckpgtoday.ca

  • Tolko Industries Ltd., a Vernon-based wood products manufacturer, plans to extend the curtailment of its lumber mills in Armstrong and Soda Creek, near Williams Lake, until at least the end of February, due to supply issues and weak lumber markets. A total of 350 workers continue to be affected.

    vernonmorningstar.com

  • The reopening of Canfor’s Houston Sawmill has been indefinitely delayed due to a fire this January. The mill has been closed for five weeks due to poor economic conditions.

    terracestandard.com
• Week of 2023-01-16 to 2023-01-20

  • Simon Fraser University has opened the Innovation Plaza at its Surrey campus this month. The around $4M newly renovated facility aims to support further research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in quantum computing and agricultural technology.

    www.sfu.ca

  • Aunt Leah’s House, a five-unit supportive housing location for mothers and their children in Burnaby, reopened this month following an over $1M redevelopment. The project was jointly funded by the governments of Canada and B.C.

    newswire.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $7.1M in funding to twelve First Nations communities through the Community Energy Diesel Reduction program, which aims to support clean-energy initiatives and develop alternative-energy projects for remote communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing nearly $100K in funding to support two active transportation projects in the Township of Langley. The two projects aim to collect data and develop strategies for the assessment of new pathways, bike lanes, trails, and pedestrian bridges.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada and the District of Mackenzie are providing $2.9M in joint-funding to support energy-efficient infrastructure upgrades at the Mackenzie Recreation Centre.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government has implemented an Integrated Child and Youth team in Richmond, to provide new services and supports for children and youth facing mental-health and substance-use challenges. Richmond is one of the first of five school-district communities to launch these teams.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Trimble Forestry, a BC-based software development company, has partnered with the Faculty of Forestry at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver to establish a new lab which aims to support educational and research opportunities in forestry.

    woodbusiness.ca

  • Mercer International Inc. announced plans to curtail production for three weeks at is Celgar mill located in Castlegar beginning in March, due to lack of fibre availability.

    globenewswire.com

  • The B.C. government, the Canadian Mental Health Association Shuswap Revelstoke, and the City of Salmon Arm plan to open a new temporary winter shelter in Salmon Arm. Visitors will have access to warm meals, hygiene facilities, off-site warming centres during the day, and referrals to health services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $90 million over three years through the new BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund, to support high-value industrial and manufacturing projects established by for-profit organizations which can also create jobs in regional and Indigenous communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Cascadia Air suspended its operations indefinitely this month due to difficult economic conditions. The BC-based commuter airline offered charter services and non-stop flights to nine destinations in the province.

    abbynews.com

  • The Research Forest Society Legacy Fund at the College of New Caledonia in Prince George is seeking applicants interested in funding to support proposals that involve sustaining and revitalizing local natural resources in the region.

    ckpgtoday.ca

  • Pelicana Chicken, a Korean restaurant chain, opened a new location in Port Coquitlam this month.

    tricitynews.com

  • The Qualicum Beach Fire Department, located in Qualicum Beach, is providing high school students with the opportunity to take part in its one-week Youth Fire Camp, which aims to introduce participants to fire and emergency services. The program will run from March 19-25.

    pqbnews.com

  • Agrius, a restaurant located in Victoria, permanently closed this month due to difficult economic circumstances.

    timescolonist.com

  • The Government of Canada has provided $117K in funding for equipment enhancements and to increase Indigenous programming and live performing arts at the University of Victoria’s Farquhar Auditorium, in Victoria.

    canada.ca

  • Island Health is seeking to open a new primary care centre in Ucluelet this September. The health authority is currently accepting proposals to lease space for a new location.

    timescolonist.com

  • WestJet plans to increase its daily flights from Kamloops to Calgary this February, following Air Canada’s decision to indefinitely suspend the same route this month.

    kamloopsthisweek.com

  • The B.C. government and Interior Health plans to open the first complex care housing locations in Kamloops and Kelowna, to deliver services to people in the region facing overlapping mental health, substance use, and trauma or brain injuries.

    interiorhealth.ca

  • The Government of Canada has awarded a $2.35M grant to the City of Castlegar, to expand the taxiway and apron at West Kootenay Regional Airport. The project is expected to begin this summer.

    nelsonstar.com

  • JetBlue, a US-based low-cost airline, plans to introduce a direct route between Vancouver and Boston. The service is expected to operate seasonally beginning June 15, 2023.

    dailyhive.com

  • Victoria City Council has approved the development of a two-storey floating spa and sauna facility within Victoria Inner Harbour. The facility is currently in the construction phase and is slated to potentially open later this year.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $3.9M in funding to support 21 projects across Vancouver Island and coastal communities which aim to renovate public spaces and expand tourism businesses.

    canada.ca

  • La Foret Bakery & Café plans to open a new location in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Pi Co. Pizza, Neapolitan-style pizza chain, plans to open a new location in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • StrEATS, a Canadian restaurant chain, announced plans to open a new location in Surrey this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • Amtrack Cascades, a passenger rail service between Vancouver, Seattle and Portland, will add a second daily roundtrip service between these cities starting March 7, 2023. The service was previously reduced due to Covid-19.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-01-09 to 2023-01-13

  • The B.C. government plans to open four pilot family connection centres this spring in the North Coast and Okanagan regions. The pilot family connections centres aim to provide therapy, intervention, and support services to children, youth, and their families.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Aspen Planers Merritt, a lumber mill located in Merritt, closed indefinitely in December due to lack of timber supply. About 150 employees are affected by the shutdown.

    merrittherald.com

  • The Chopped Leaf, a BC-based restaurant chain, opened a new Coquitlam location this month in Sunwood Square Mall.

    tricitynews.com

  • The City of Vancouver is seeking to allocate $67M for the renewal and upgrade of existing parks in the city through the 2023-2026 Capital Plan. The proposed projects are expected to be considered for approval this March.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Canadian Institutes of Health Research is providing $683,000 in funding for six BC-based universities, to support the development of a new master’s program which supports Indigenous health-care providers and incorporates Indigenous knowledge into mainstream practice.

    boundarycreektimes.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing nearly $7M in funding to YMCA Canada, to support mental wellness programs intended for young people across Canada.

    newswire.ca

  • Thinkific Labs Inc., a Vancouver-based software company laid off 76 employees this month due to restructuring and financial concerns.

    betakit.com

  • The new Gateway Building at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver began development this month. The $180M construction project is expected to be completed in 2024 and aims to become a center for the university’s health departments.

    archinect.com

  • Vaagen Fibre Canada, a mill located in Midway, has closed indefinitely due to poor market conditions for wood fibre sourcing. 85 employees and nearly 100 contractors, vendors, and suppliers are affected.

    castanet.net

  • Skeena Sawmills in Terrace is suspending log deliveries until the end of January due to high cost of logging and other economic factors affecting its business.

    ominecaexpress.com

  • Wilson’s Transportation, an intercity bus service, has suspended routes to Tofino from Victoria, Nanaimo, and Campbell River until May, citing lower-than-average ridership and high operating costs.

    pqbnews.com

  • Parksville Fire Rescue is seeking paid on-call volunteers and career firefighters to provide fire and emergency response services in the Parksville Fire Protection Area.

    pqbnews.com

  • Capital Iron, a defunct general retail store in Victoria, plans to reopen as a store focused on outdoor living later this year following new ownership.

    timescolonist.com

  • SafeCare BC and AgeCare have partnered to open five new satellite training centres this month in Kelowna, Williams Lake, Burnaby, Lumby and Salmon Arm, to enhance education for Okanagan care workers.

    pentictonwesternnews.com

  • Medical schools in Prince George, Kelowna, Victoria, and Vancouver are increasing the number of seats available to study as a medical student, to ease physician shortages in the province.

    terracestandard.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing nearly $100,000 in funding to support two active transportation projects in the City of Mission and the District of Kent. The two projects aim to build and expand networks of pathways, bike lanes, trails, and pedestrian bridges.

    canada.ca

  • Mountain Equipment Company, a Canadian outdoor retailer, is building a new distribution centre in Surrey, which is expected to generate new employment opportunities. The distribution center is expected to be completed this fall.

    dailyhive.com

  • Chachi’s Sandwiches, a Canadian restaurant chain, announced plans to open a new location at Langley’s Willowbrook Shopping Centre.

    dailyhive.com

  • Dock Lunch, a restaurant located in Vancouver, permanently closed this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • Oh Carolina, a grocery store and café located in Vancouver, plans to permanently close this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • Ramen Danbo, a restaurant chain offering Japanese cuisine, announced plans to open a new location in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Fatburger, a US-based burger chain, opened a new location in Surrey this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • Construction will begin soon on the new Dawson Creek and District Hospital, located on the territory of Treaty 8 First Nations. The jointly funded project is in the design stage, and aims to provide a range of surgical services, as well as chemotherapy, ambulatory care, radiology, clinical support, and pharmacy services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing as much as $4.5M per year in funding for the BC Human Rights Tribunal and the Community Legal Assistance Society, to support increased caseloads and enable hiring for more lawyers, legal advocates, and support staff.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has reopened emergency operation centres across the province, to support patients with hospital care services and reduce pressure on hospital emergency departments, for a minimum of six weeks.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government announced plans to support internationaly educated nurses, and nurses returning to practice after a period of absence, by removing application and assessment fees and providing up to $10,000 in bursaries for additional education.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2022-12-19 to 2023-01-06

  • BC Hydro announced plans to temporarily suspend electricity-connection requests from cryptocurrency mining operations for 18 months, to preserve electricity supply and to develop a permanent framework for approving large connections to the grid.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The City of Parksville announced the creation of new daytime warming centre for people experiencing homelessness in the community. The centre aims to provide 30 spaces with a ratio of one staff to 10 guests.

    pqbnews.com

  • Canfor Pulp Products Inc. announced plans to extend curtailments for a further two-weeks at its mills in Chetwynd, Prince George, Vanderhoof, and Houston, due to reduced wood fiber supply and weak market conditions.

    alaskahighwaynews.ca

  • Tolko Industries Ltd., a Vernon-based wood products manufacturer, announced plans to curtail production at its lumber mills in Armstrong and Soda Creek, near Williams Lake, until at least the end of January, due to supply issues and weak lumber markets. A total of 350 workers are affected.

    tolko.com

  • Lemon Fusion Kitchen and Bar opened its new restaurant located in Vancouver in December.

    dailyhive.com

  • Starbucks, a US-based coffee chain, permanently closed its Gastown location in Vancouver in December.

    dailyhive.com

  • Sushi Well, a sushi restaurant in Vancouver, permanently closed in December due to redevelopment.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government has implemented changes to employment standards regulations, raising the minimum age for many jobs considered as hazardous. This includes some jobs within construction, forestry, food processing, oil and gas and power, and asbestos removal.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Red Robin’s, a US-based restaurant chain, permanently closed its Burnaby location in December due to staffing concerns.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. Ministry of Housing announced plans to increase the Residential Tenancy Branch’s operating budget and staffing by 40%, adding as many as 50 new full-time employees to improve service and strengthen residential tenancy dispute resolution.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $33M annually over the next three years to rural and remote communities, First Nations and not-for-profit organizations through the new economic diversification program. The program aims to support community and infrastructure projects.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government implemented a permanent cap on fees charged by food-delivery companies. Under the new Food Delivery Service Fee Act, delivery companies can charge restaurants to no more than 20% of the dollar value of an order.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Ebus, a Canadian intercity bus service, introduced a new direct route between Prince George and Kamloops this January. The service operates three times weekly.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The B.C. government is providing over $4.3M to five BC-based universities, to support 18 new research projects funded by the B.C. Knowledge Development Fund.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Buddha Chay, a new Vietnamese restaurant located in Vancouver, opened in December.

    dailyhive.com

  • Canfor Pulp Products Inc. announced plans on December 19th to immediately undertake a four-week curtailment at its Intercontinental Pulp Mill in Prince George, due to reduced wood fiber supply.

    intercon-curtailment.pdf (canfor.com)

  • BC Hydro has begun construction on three new capacitor stations near Vanderhoof, Burns Lake, and Terrace, which seek to boost the amount of electricity carried into northwestern B.C. Work on the project is expected to be completed by 2028.

    terracestandard.com

  • La Win Supermarket, a new Chinese supermarket in Vancouver, opened in December.

    dailyhive.com

  • Mann & Co. Bakeshop, a new bakery in Surrey, opened in December.

    dailyhive.com

  • Planetary Burger, a plant-based restaurant in Vancouver, has closed.

    dailyhive.com

  • Biercraft on Cambie, a Belgian-style pub in Vancouver, has permanently closed.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government announced in December that the Highway 91/17 and Deltaport Way Upgrade Project in Delta is near completion. The $260M jointly funded project aims to improve traffic flow and commute times south of the Fraser River.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has opened a new 52 unit supportive housing project for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Vernon. The project was completed in partnership with the Turning Points Collaborative Society and the City of Vernon.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $1.6M to support two active transportation projects in Mission and Chilliwack. Work includes a new two-way bike lane and improved way finding on existing trail ways.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $1.7M to support nine active transportation projects and eight other transportation planning and design projects on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada and the District of Sechelt are providing $914,288 to upgrade wastewater treatment in Sechelt. The project aims to increase the capacity to treat wastewater by developing a new lift station and decommissioning the current station in use.

    canada.ca

  • The BC Arts Council is providing over $2.7M in funding to more than 250 BC-based artists and arts organizations. Funding includes scholarships, project assistance for performing artists and professional organizations, and arts-based community development.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing over $550,000 to the Surrey Board of Trade, to support occupational skills training and work experience for about 30 eligible individuals interested in becoming cyber systems security specialists in the Lower Mainland.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The governments of Canada and B.C. are providing $7.5M in joint funding over the next three years to the B.C. Indigenous Cannabis Business Fund, which aims to support First Nations communities and Indigenous businesses that want to start or grow a business in the cannabis industry.

    canada.ca

  • Artemis Gold, a Canadian mining company, announced plans to begin construction on its Blackwater Gold project this spring. The planned open-pit gold mine is located in central British Columbia, approximately 160 km southwest of Prince George.

    .biv.com

  • Capital Iron, a general store located in Victoria, permanently closed in December.

    timescolonist.com

  • The UBC Centre for Advanced Wood Processing and UBC School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture located in Vancouver are providing a 3-day hands-on workshop in February for individuals interested in designing mass-timber projects.

    cawp.ubc.ca

  • The City of Abbotsford will construct a new 3.5-hectare park in west Abbotsford near the Aldergrove border. The project is currently in the design stage and aims to include amenities such as picnic tables, a playground, an off-leash dog area, a small sport court, and trails/paths.

    abbynews.com

  • The B.C. government implemented a 2.8% minimum wage increase for agricultural piece rates, to support farm workers and fruit pickers.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2022-12-12 to 2022-12-16

  • Fast Air, a Canadian business aviation company, launched its charter services at the Abbotsford International Airport this month and also began construction on a new aviation facility at the airport. The company flies to several destinations in the US and Canada.

    theprogress.com

  • Half Baked Cookie Company plans to permanently close its bakery located in Vancouver this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • Interior Health and the RCMP plan to hire more staff to expand their the Integrated Crisis Response Teams in Kelowna and Kamloops, which aim to support people in distress and connect them to help and healthcare.

    interiorhealth.ca

  • The Columbia Basin Trust is providing $675,000 in funding to support 91 non-profit groups in the Kootenays to purchase equipment for the improvement of operations and delivery of vital services.

    ourtrust.org

  • The College of New Caledonia and Selkirk College are launching a joint Pharmacy Technician Diploma program at their two campuses, in Prince George and Castlegar. The 15-month program begins in July 2023, and will provide flexible and blended learning for students located in northern BC.

    .cnc.bc.ca

  • The Museum of Anthropology, located at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, plans to temporarily close until late 2023 beginning January 15, due to extensive building upgrades and renovation.

    .moa.ubc.ca

  • Porter Airlines, a Canadian-based regional airline, plans to introduce a new direct route between Vancouver and Toronto. The service is expected to operate multiple times daily starting on February 7.

    flyporter.com

  • HTEC, a BC-based hydrogen technology company, plans to construct a 15-tonne per day clean hydrogen plant in North Vancouver. The proposed project aims to capture, purify and process the by-product hydrogen to manufacture low-carbon transportation fuels by 2025.

    htec.ca

  • The Metro Vancouver Transit Police plan to launch a new Community Safety Officer program in 2023, which seeks to provide additional uniformed visibility and address low risk incidents on transit systems in Vancouver.

    transitpolice.ca

  • The Vancouver International Airport Authority is seeking to hire multiple guest experience representatives, to support travellers and assist with airport operations.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government plans to provide eight new complex-care housing spaces in Maple Ridge, to deliver services to people in the region facing overlapping mental health, substance use, trauma or brain injuries.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Denny’s, a US-based chain restaurant, plans to permanently close its location in Vancouver this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $5.5M in funding to support 23 projects throughout the Thompson-Okanagan region which aim to revitalize public spaces and enhance tourism experiences.

    canada.ca

  • The Federal government is providing $2.25M in funding to the Métis Nations British Columbia, which aims to implement a suicide prevention program and provide information and resources to improve mental health.

    canada.ca

  • The British Columbia Institute of Technology, located in Burnaby, received $2.5M in joint-funding from several BC-based forestry companies for a new Trades and Technology Complex, to support over 20 programs. The $220M project is expected to create up to 1,175 direct jobs.

    bcit.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $2M in funding to support ten projects throughout the East Kootenays which aim to revitalize public spaces and enhance tourism experiences.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $10M in funding to support projects under the British Columbia Indigenous Clean Energy Initiative, which facilitates the development of clean energy projects in First Nations communities throughout the province.

    newswire.ca

  • The Walyaqil Tiny Shelter Village construction project in Port Alberni began this month. The jointly-funded project aims to provide 30 homes for people experiencing homelessness in the community and is expected to be completed in early 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government plans to provide 22 new complex-care housing spaces in Chilliwack, to deliver services to people in the region facing overlapping mental health, substance use, trauma or brain injuries.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing over $660,000 to Big Rig Driving School in Surrey, to support occupational training and work experience for about 30 eligible individuals interested in becoming professional truck drivers in the Lower Mainland.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The City of Surrey has awarded a contract worth over $10M to B&B Heavy Civil Construction Ltd., to widen 80 Avenue from Scott Road to 128 Street. The project is expected to begin in January with completion in Spring 2024.

    surreynowleader.com

  • The Township of Langley is planning to hire 44 firefighters over the next four years.

    langleyadvancetimes.com
• Week of 2022-12-05 to 2022-12-09

  • Canfor Corporation, a BC-based forest products company, plans to close its Houston based sawmill as part of its province-wide curtailments. The closure is expected to last for three weeks beginning December 19.

    interior-news.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $2.5M to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, to support the expansion of its employment program for blind and partially sighted people, including employment for youth and Indigenous Peoples.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Rio Tinto, a global metals and mining company, has completed its Kemano T2 hydropower project, which will provide energy for the company’s aluminium smelter in Kitimat and support neighbouring communities.

    riotinto.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $30M through the Strategic Innovation Fund to Sanctuary Cognitive Systems Corporation, a Vancouver-based AI and robotics company. The funding aims to support a $120.8M project and is expected to employ over 160 people and 120 co-op students.

    canada.ca

  • The Dolar Shop, a restaurant chain offering Chinese cuisine, plans to open a new location in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Parkland Group, an Alberta-based energy company, has received over $6.8M in joint funding from the provincial and federal governments, to support the installation of 76 EV fast chargers at retail fuel locations in British Columbia and Alberta by 2024.

    canada.ca

  • The LP Foundation, a non-profit division of Louisiana-Pacific, has partnered with Vancouver Island University in Nanaimo, to provide $30,000 over the next three years to support the Indigenous Peoples in Trades Training, and Women in Trades Training programs.

    prnewswire.com

  • The B.C. government plans to expand its mental-health and substance-use services for young people, by creating 33 new substance-use programs and hiring more than 130 new specialized health-care workers.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Deviant Fibres, a cannabis retailer located in Terrace, has received approval from the City of Terrance to begin selling cannabis products.

    terracestandard.com

  • Planet Fitness, a US-based fitness chain, opened a new 24/7 gym facility in November in Coquitlam's Westwood Mall Shopping Centre.

    tricitynews.com

  • The Government of Canada and the B.C. government are providing $9.9M in joint funding for a new wastewater treatment plant to protect the health of Cultus Lake and improve water quality in the Fraser Valley Regional District .

    canada.ca

  • Lululemon, a Canadian athletic apparel retailer, opened a new location in November at the Abbotsford Highstreet Shopping Centre.

    abbynews.com

  • Hemingway’s Books and Records, a bookstore located in Abbotsford, announced plans to permanently close in January 2023.

    abbynews.com

  • Red Robin, a US-based restaurant chain, announced plans to permanently close its Burnaby location at the end of December.

    dailyhive.com

  • Air Canada has introduced a new direct route this December, from Vancouver to Bangkok, Thailand. The service is expected to operate seasonally until March 2023 with flights departing four times weekly.

    aircanada.com

  • The Town of Qualicum Beach is seeking to redevelop its community skate park. The project is currently under consideration by the local council. The project is expected to cost up to $1.6M.

    pqbnews.com

  • The B.C. government is providing over $350,000 to Okanagan College in Vernon, to support occupational training and work experience for eight eligible Indigenous people and youth interested in becoming professional logging truck drivers in the region.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Vancouver Coastal Health has opened a new complex-care housing service near Sechelt, to support approximately 25 people in the region facing overlapping mental health, substance use, and trauma or brain injuries.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Foundry Cariboo Chilcotin, a new mental-health and substance-use services centre located in Williams Lake, opened this month and aims to provided youth and families with mental-health and substance-use counselling, medical services, peer support and social services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is launching the Regional Quantum Initiative in British Columbia, which aims to provide $14M over six years to eligible BC businesses and organizations to advance and commercialize their quantum technology products and solutions for domestic and global markets.

    newswire.ca

  • The governments of Canada and B.C. are providing $600,000 in joint funding to the Kwadacha and Heiltsuk Nations for the creation and expansion of local organic waste processing services. The project aims reduce greenhouse gas emissions, support local jobs and create Class A compost to boost local food production.

    canada.ca

  • Canfor Corporation, a BC-based forest products company, has announced a temporary reduction in production due to weak market conditions. Production will be reduced through curtailments at all solid wood facilities in B.C. and Alberta.

    canfor.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.9M in funding over three years to the Indigenous Forest Bioeconomy Program, which aims to support the growth of an Indigenous-led forest bioeconomy and develop innovative low-carbon forest-based products.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Selkirk College’s Trail campus is seeking students interested in its two-year Practical Nursing Diploma Program which begins in January 2023.

    nelsonstar.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $2.1M in funding to the Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique, for the purchase of a property for école La Grande-ourse in Smithers.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2022-11-28 to 2022-12-02

  • The City of Terrace is seeking to approve a $1.6M capital project proposal for the reconstruction of road, sewer and water infrastructure on Graham Avenue.

    terracestandard.com

  • Daybreak Farms, an egg producer located in Terrace, has begun a $10M construction project on a new barn that will house an estimated 37,000 chickens. The new barn will increase capacity to supply eggs across the North, including Haida Gwaii, Prince George, and other remote communities.

    terracestandard.com

  • B.C. Ferries is seeking shipyards to build up to four new hybrid diesel-electric Island-class ferries to help alleviate pressure on busy inter-island routes. The operator is aiming to begin sailing the new ships from 2024 to 2028.

    timescolonist.com

  • Bocci, a Vancouver-based firm specializing in the design and fabrication of lighting installations, announced plans to develop a new seven-storey office headquarters and manufacturing hub in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Daigyo Café, a Japanese dessert and cafe chain, plans to open a new location in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Hynes’ Irish Bar + Kitchen plans to open its new pub in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Strathcona Regional District has begun a wildfire fuel treatment project on Cortes Island. The $70K project aims to clear four hectares of flammable brush near the island’s recycling centre.

    campbellrivermirror.com

  • The Government of Canada opened a new PacifiCan office in Campbell River in November. The federal economic development agency aims to facilitate innovation, jobs and growth in B.C.

    Minister Sajjan announces new PacifiCan service on Vancouver Island and the Coast, and an investment of $5.2 million in the local economy - Canada.ca

  • The Strathcona Regional District has begun construction on a new fibre optic network for the Village of Gold River. The project is expected to be completed next year.

    campbellrivermirror.com

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing up to $24.7M in combined funding to support the development of high-speed Internet infrastructure to support more than 5,000 households in rural communities on Vancouver Island.

    Governments of Canada and British Columbia invest up to $24.7 million to bring high-speed Internet to more than 5,000 households (newswire.ca) (available in French only)

  • The City of Quesnel approved the development of a 6-storey residential building with 56 units located in the city centre.

    quesnelobserver.com

  • The Comox Valley Regional District has allocated $75K to support the renovation of the Connect Warming Centre, an emergency homeless shelter located in Courtenay. The project includes new fire safety/security installation, interior access modifications, and supplies to support 33 beds.

    comoxvalleyrecord.com

  • Sun Peaks, a ski resort located north of Kamloops, opened for the winter season in November.

    kamloopsthisweek.com

  • Rivian, a US-based electric vehicle automaker, opened a new service centre in Richmond. The company has over 150 employees in Metro Vancouver.

    driving.ca

  • Petite Bao, a new burger restaurant in Vancouver, opened this month. The restaurant is approximately 1,000 sq. ft. and has seating for 16.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of Canada will open a new Service Canada office in Prince George this April, which will also include 10-day passport services.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The Government of Canada is permanently extending EI sickness benefits from 15 weeks to 26 weeks for individuals who qualify and establish a new claim on or after December 18, 2022.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $92,500 for two active transportation projects in Southwestern B.C. One on the Sunshine Coast and another in the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District. The projects aim to evaluate current infrastructure and plan new transportation infrastructure to better connect communities.

    newswire.ca

  • REN Energy, a BC-based energy company, has received approval to begin construction on its new renewable natural gas facility in Fruitvale. The project is expected to begin in Spring 2023.

    bioenergy-news.com

  • The B.C. government is providing over $4.9M in funding to Simon Fraser University to support the development of a new medical school at its Surrey campus. The university plans to begin its first student intake by September 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Forest Enhancement Society of BC is providing $25M in funding to support 12 new wildfire risk reduction projects, which aim to improve forest resiliency and contribute to safer communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2022-11-21 to 2022-11-25

  • The Government of Canada is providing nearly $49M in funding to Canada's Building Trades Unions for a project which aims to generate financial incentives and support to small and medium-sized enterprises in British Columbia, and other provinces.

    newswire.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing over $2M through the Connecting British Columbia program, to support improved cellular connectivity and faster internet with the construction of a new cellular tower for the Takla Lake community near Prince George.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $10M to Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd. to lead a large-scale tree-planting project in British Columbia, which aims to plant 9.3M trees.

    newswire.ca

  • Whistler Blackcomb, the largest ski resort in North America located in Whistler, opened for the winter season this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cisco, a US-based IT company, and the British Columbia Institute of Technology have partnered to expand the institute’s Industrial Network Cybersecurity Lab, located in Burnaby, which aims to provide skills training in the field of cybersecurity.

    datamation.com

  • The Government of Canada is opening three new Pacific Economic Development Canada offices across Northern British Columbia. Offices will be located in Prince Rupert, Prince George and Fort St. John.

    haidagwaiiobserver.com

  • The new Xchange Business Park, a 140-acre industrial development project in Abbotsford, has received approval to begin construction. The project is expected to generate an estimated 1,000 direct jobs in the city.

    westerninvestor.com

  • Grieg Seafood BC, a Norwegian-based salmon farming company, announced plans to decommission its open-net operations on the Sunshine Coast in the Sechelt Inlet due to restructuring. The decision is not expected to result in employee layoffs.

    seawestnews.com

  • The Federal government is providing $1.2B in funding as part of the Ocean Protection Plan, which focuses on supporting initiatives that aim to enhance protection of B.C. coastal waters, including better marine oil and fuel spill prevention and response.

    timescolonist.com

  • MeeT, a vegan chain restaurant, plans to open a new location in Victoria this December.

    dailyhive.com

  • Apple, a US-based technology company, is hiring staff in Vancouver. Positions range from retail sales and iCloud specialists to Senior Software Engineers.

    dailyhive.com

  • Coast Capital Savings, a BC-based credit union, announced plans to layoff employees due to the need for restructuring. As many as 4% of its workforce is expected to be impacted.

    dailyhive.com

  • Petpls, a new cat café in Richmond, plans to open this December and is seeking staff, including waiters and waitresses, a baker and a barista.

    richmond-news.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $75M to support the development of a second berth at Trigon Pacific Terminals at the Port of Prince Rupert. The $163.1M expansion project is expected to be completed by early 2027.

    cbc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.04M in funding to the University of British Columbia's Okanagan campus in Kelowna, to support initiatives that aim to create new bioplastics and reduce landfill waste.

    yahoo.com

  • VinFast, a Vietnamese electric vehicle maker, announced plans to open a new showroom at the Park Royal Shopping Centre in West Vancouver.

    dawsoncreekmirror.ca

  • Solda’s Family Restaurant, located in Port Alberni, plans to permanently close on December 4.

    albernivalleynews.com
• Week of 2022-11-14 to 2022-11-16

  • Highway 8 between Merritt and Spences Bridge officially reopened to the public this month following repairs due to damage caused by last November's major flooding event. The highway will restore connectivity to residents, Indigenous communities and the local industries.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing over $33M in funding to create the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program, which aims to support local governments, First Nations and other organizations. The program will focus on economic diversification, resilience, clean-growth opportunities and infrastructure development.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The City of Prince Rupert and two Ts’msyem First Nations have formed a working group to consider the development of a wind-powered hydrogen production plant in Prince Rupert.

    theturtleislandnews.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $4M to install four hydrogen refuelling stations in B.C., and over $2.2M to build three natural gas refuelling stations in Delta, Kelowna and Abbotsford. Funding for these projects is being provided by the Clean Fuels Fund.

    newswire.ca

  • Cypress Mountain Resort, located in West Vancouver, opened its ski hill for the winter season.

    squamishchief.com

  • Sanjo Sushi opened its new Japanese restaurant in New Westminster in October.

    newwestrecord.ca

  • Porsche opened a new 75,000 sq.ft. vehicle dealership at the Richmond Auto Mall this month. The location includes a new and pre-used vehicle showroom, guest amenities, delivery area and 15 service bays.

    richmond-news.com

  • Ryoshi Market plans to open its new Japanese grocery store in Richmond this fall.

    richmond-news.com

  • Marugame Udon, a chain of restaurants offering Japanese cuisine, plans open its first Canadian location in downtown Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Global Ports Holding Plc., the world’s largest independent cruise port operator, will begin overseeing terminal operations at the Northland Cruise Terminal in Prince Rupert in 2023. The new ten-year agreement with the Prince Rupert Port Authority aims to improve cruise tourism in the region.

    terracestandard.com

  • The B.C. government is providing a $500,000 grant to support school food programs and school supplies and education costs at Coast Mountains School District 82. The program covers schools in Terrace, Kitimat, Stewart and New Hazelton.

    terracestandard.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $7.1M in funding to the Métis Nation British Columbia to support over 1000 Métis students in occupational skills training programs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Health and Technology District construction project in Surrey is entering a new phase this month with work beginning on City Centre 4, which consists of 23 storeys and more than 350,000 square feet of office space available for purchase or lease. The building is expected to be complete in 2025.

    .biv.com

  • Canadian Women in Timber, a BC-based forestry education and awareness organization, announced plans to dissolve its operations after 30 years this month.

    treefrogcreative.ca

  • The Whistler Mature Action Community, a senior’s community organization located in Whistler, launched the Making Connections program, a new pilot program which aims to connect seniors and reduce stigma surrounding dementia.

    piquenewsmagazine.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $10.1M in funding to support a wildfire fuel treatment program for 12 high-risk forested areas in Whistler, to reduce the risk of wildfires and protect local communities in the area.

    canada.ca

  • Construction has begun on the widening of Highway 1 through Langley, which includes the replacement of the Glover Road crossing. The $345 million project is expected to be completed in summer 2024.

    citynews.ca

  • To Live for Bakery, a new bakery and café, has opened in Vancouver this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • Vancouver Island Ferry Company plans to begin offering a new high-speed 350-passenger ferry service from downtown Vancouver to Nanaimo. The service is expected to begin operating in summer 2023.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Port Coquitlam has begun the reconstruction of Veterans Park. The renovation project is expected to be completed March 2023, and aims to provide additional capacity and infrastructure improvements.

    tricitynews.com

  • Nav Canada, which provides navigation system services at the Victoria International Airport, will begin construction on a new six-storey air-traffic-control tower at the airport this spring. The project is expected to be completed by 2026.

    timescolonist.com
• Week of 2022-11-07 to 2022-11-11

  • The Village of Pemberton has received about $400,000 in combined public funding from all three levels of government, to support the development of electric vehicle fast chargers in the Village’s downtown core. The chargers are expected to be installed by July 2023.

    newswire.ca

  • Apple, a US-based technology company, will open a new store in downtown Vancouver this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • TransLink has began the reconstruction of Phibbs Exchange in North Vancouver. The rebuilding project is expected to be completed in 2024 and aims to provide additional capacity and improved safety, security, and active transportation connections for over 16,000 passengers daily.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $39M in funding to the Canadian Council for Aviation & Aerospace, to support its Industry Led Training for the Aviation and Aerospace Sector project. The funding is expected to benefit over 900 new and current aerospace workers in Ontario, Manitoba, and British Columbia.

    newswire.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.8M in funding for improved internet services for ten Vancouver Island and Gulf Island communities. The projects are supported by CityWest and Telus, two BC-based telecommunications companies.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The University of British Columbia and Wet’suwet’en First Nation have partnered to build a pilot plant to manufacture biodegradable packing foam from wood waste. The project is currently in the planning stages.

    theglobeandmail.com

  • Pizza Hut plans to open a new location in Abbotsford.

    abbynews.com

  • All Nations Cannabis, a new a Indigenous-owned cannabis retail store located on Skway First Nation territory, opened this month at Shxwhá:y Village.

    hopestandard.com

  • Buena Vista Lodge, a mental health facility located in White Rock, will permanently close in June 2023 due to lack of funding.

    surreynowleader.com

  • Ricardo’s, an ice cream parlour chain, plans to open a new location in White Rock this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • Secwépemc Child and Family Services, a child protection agency for Indigenous families and children located on Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc territory, opened its new 30,000-square-foot facility on October 27.

    kamloopsthisweek.com

  • BC Housing and the Out of the Cold shelter organization have opened a 24-bed homeless winter shelter at the former Stuart Wood elementary school in Kamloops.

    kamloopsthisweek.com

  • The Exploration Place, a museum located in Prince George, officially reopened this month following closure due to COVID-19 and a major renovation project which included improvements to exhibit spaces and enhanced visitor experiences.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • CityWest, a Prince Rupert-based telecommunications company, announced plans to partner with the North Coast Regional District, to provide improved telecommunication services for several communities in the northwest B.C.

    haidagwaiiobserver.com

  • The Canadian Coast Guard is building 13 helicopter pads on Haida Gwaii to enhance safety and access for maintenance staff working on navigational aids, such as buoys, lights, fog signals and global positioning system stations.

    haidagwaiiobserver.com

  • The B.C. government has provided over $4M in funding to Stillwater Consulting Ltd., based in Cranbrook. The company will provide employability and occupational skills training for 120 eligible people through its Wildfire and Integrated Natural Resources program in Nanaimo, Langley, Cranbrook, Kamloops and Prince George.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $2.6M in combined funding for two research labs at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby. Funding will go towards new high-tech equipment and upgrades for big data and clean technology research, and to hire new staff.

    newswire.ca

  • The B.C. government plans to hire 10 security officers each at the Mills Memorial Hospital in Terrace, and at Prince Rupert Regional Hospital, as a measure to increase safety for employees and patients.

    terracestandard.com

  • The new LifeLabs Ironwood Patient Service Centre opened this month in Richmond. The centre is an appointment-based location offering diagnostic testing services with a focus on patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

    richmond-news.com

  • Toast to Coast Brunch Bar, a new brunch restaurant in Richmond, opened this month.

    richmond-news.com

  • KC Recycling, a battery and electronics recycler based in Trail, is partnering with a US-based lead battery manufacturer, to recycle plastic waste from batteries into a new raw material resource.

    nelsonstar.com

  • Enbridge, a Calgary-based oil and gas company, is seeking to spend over $5.5B to expand its T-North and T-South natural gas pipelines in British Columbia.

    .biv.com

  • Star Cinema, located in Sidney, officially re-opened this month following a 3-year renovation project. The movie theatre includes three screens with a combined 305-seat capacity.

    timescolonist.com

  • Uride, an app-based ride hailing service, is set to begin operations in Nanaimo this November.

    timescolonist.com

  • Snowy Village, a Korean dessert restaurant located in Coquitlam, permanently closed this month.

    tricitynews.com

  • A new Urgent and Primary Care Centre officially opened in Port Moody this month and expects to staff over 20 healthcare professionals. The facility includes seven exam rooms and four consultation and assessment rooms

    tricitynews.com

  • Dapper Labs, a Vancouver-based blockchain company specializing in making video games, laid off 22% of its workforce or approximately 130 employees due to restructuring and economic concerns.

    yahoo.com

  • WorkSafeBC is hiring for over 25 permanent full-time case manager positions across the province. The deadline to apply is December 16

    dailyhive.com

  • Do Chay Yaletown, a Vietnamese restaurant in downtown Vancouver, permanently closed this month.

    dailyhive.com

  • Selkirk College has begun construction on two new on-campus student housing buildings at its Castlegar and Nelson campuses. The project is expected to be completed by January 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $27.5M in funding for the Forestry Employment Program project. Since 2019, the program has supported over 315 projects and created over 840 jobs in the forestry sector.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is implementing a permanent cap on fees charged by food-delivery companies. Under the new Food Delivery Service Fee Act, delivery companies can charge restaurants no more than 20% of the dollar value of an order.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Air Canada is hiring staff at Vancouver International Airport. Positions include tarmac operations, customer sales and flight attendants.

    narcity.com
• Week of 2022-10-31 to 2022-11-04

  • Various companies around Metro Vancouver are hiring for over 112 positions across multiple sectors this November. Positions include customer service and sales, financial services, real estate, human resources, and information technology.

    dailyhive.com

  • First College, a Kelowna-based institution, is seeking new students interested in its two-year Registered Massage Therapy diploma program. The deadline to apply is November 24.

    kelownanow.com

  • Hootsuite, a Vancouver-based social media management company, announced plans to layoff 5% of its staff due to poor economic and market conditions.

    dailyhive.com

  • Banana Leaf, a chain of restaurants offering Malaysian cuisine, plans to open a new location this month in South Surrey.

    dailyhive.com

  • Provincial health officials announced plans to implement a new payment model for family physicians, to help recruit and retain more family doctors in B.C.

    cbc.ca

  • Fiji Airlines plans to introduce a direct route from Vancouver to Nadi, Fiji. The service is expected to operate twice-weekly starting on November 25.

    dailyhive.com

  • Rutland Senior Secondary School in Kelowna is offering a forestry program for Grade 11 and 12 students across the Central Okanagan School District interested in pursuing a career in the forestry sector.

    kelownacapnews.com

  • The town of Oliver has received a $2.3M grant from the provincial and federal governments, to support a $3.1M rehabilitation project at the Oliver Arena. Construction is expected to begin in summer 2024.

    timeschronicle.ca

  • The Zesty Lemon Clothing Co., a new clothing store in New Westminster, opened in October.

    newwestrecord.ca

  • The new east-west Marshall Road Connector between Abbotsford and Langley officially opened in October. The corridor is expected to reduce travel times and increase economic activity.

    abbynews.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $555,000 in funding through the National Housing Strategy’s Housing Co-Investment Fund, to support renovations and upgrades at Elliot House, a transitional housing facility for men in Abbotsford.

    abbynews.com

  • Western Forest Products announced plans to curtail operations at its Port Alberni sawmill for a least 6 months due to market conditions and a lack of lumber supply. Over 90 employees at the Alberni Pacific Division Sawmill are affected.

    cheknews.ca

  • The new Teck Emergency Department at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops has begun construction. The new facility aims to expand patient care and feature new upgrades and equipment. The construction project is expected to be completed in 2026.

    ashcroftcachecreekjournal.com

  • Skeena Sawmills in Terrace is curtailing production at irregular intervals through to the end of the 2022 due to the high cost of logging and log shortages. The curtailment is expected to affect up to 138 employees.

    terracestandard.com

  • Interior Health added 337 new positions to its Health Career Access Program, which aims to provide individuals with paid education and skills training as health care assistants.

    e-know.ca

  • Ooh La La Shawarma Lounge, a new restaurant offering Middle Eastern cuisine, opened in October at the Westbrook Center in Surrey.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cypress Mountain, a ski resort located in West Vancouver, is seeking new employees for over 30 positions ahead of the winter season.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Entre Nous Femme Housing Society, a Vancouver-based housing organization, is seeking to redevelop its social housing complex for women at 1656 Adanac Street, to create a new six-storey building with a total of 97 social housing units.

    dailyhive.com

  • Value Village Boutique opened a new thrift store location on November 11 in Vancouver's South Granville neighbourhood.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia are providing $1.41M and $4.57M in funding respectively, to support the development of a 35-unit apartment building in Fernie.

    yahoo.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $1.1M in funding though the Jobs and Growth fund to Accelovant Technologies Corporation, a North Vancouver based semiconductor manufacturer, to expand production of key components used in the semiconductor industry.

    newswire.ca

  • Forty-nine health-service workers in the qathet Regional District are now employed by Vancouver Coastal Health, having been rehired through BC’s Bill 47. The Bill aims to bring previously contracted-out health-care service workers back into the public system.

    prpeak.com
• Week of 2022-10-24 to 2022-10-28

  • The new Delta Hotels by Marriot location, part of the Cascades Casino complex in Delta, plans to open in late 2022, and is seeking to hire over 50 people.

    delta-optimist.com

  • The new Canfor Leisure Pool, a nearly $40M recreational facility located in Prince George, officially opens to the public on November 14.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The Nechako-Kitimaat Development Fund Society is providing $72,000 in funding to support four new community-building projects in the Nechako region, including environmental and economic assessments.

    northernsentinel.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $5.3M in combined funding to Deadwood Innovations and the Nak'azdli Development Corporation and Tolko Industries Ltd. to support new wood manufacturing innovation.

    newswire.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $5M to support the Heiltsuk First Nation develop the Heiltsuk Marine Emergency Response Team. The pilot-project aims enhance marine safety on the Central Coast of British Columbia.

    yahoo.com

  • The B.C. government is implementing temporary measures to increase on-call and overtime pay for paramedics in rural and remote communities. On-call pay increase to $12 per hour from $2 for eligible workers.

    theglobeandmail.com

  • The new Namgis First Nation Driving School will soon be offering driver training services for residents in remote Indigenous communities on northern Vancouver Island.

    cbc.ca

  • The B.C. government has created a new advisory council to support forestry workers and oversee forestry programs and initiatives that aim to build economic resiliency in rural communities.

    woodbusiness.ca

  • No. 1 Collision Group has opened a new 30,000 sq. ft. luxury vehicle repair centre in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Zuba, a chain of restaurants offering Japanese cuisine, plans to open a new 100-seat concept restaurant in downtown Vancouver in early 2023.

    dailyhive.com

  • Blacksmith Bakery has opened its new artisan bakery and café located in Langley.

    dailyhive.com

  • Ibex Café + Kitchen opened its new 1,740 sq. ft. café located in Coquitlam’s Burke Mountain Village.

    dailyhive.com

  • Pane e Formaggio opened its new Italian cafe and bakery located in downtown Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Canada Jetlines, a new low-cost airline, plans to introduce a direct route from Vancouver to Toronto. The service is expected to operate twice-weekly starting December 2022.

    .biv.com

  • The Seven Sisters mental-health facility in Terrace has begun redevelopment. The new facility will add additional beds and spaces for patients. The construction project is expected to be completed in late fall 2023.

    reminetwork.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $10M in funding for Science World in Vancouver through the Tourism Relief Fund, to support infrastructure improvements and gallery renovations, including enhanced accessibility features.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government plans to hire about 320 protection services officers and 14 violence prevention leads, to support a safer environment for staff and patients in provincial health care facilities across the province.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Canadian Tire has opened a new location in Chilliwack. The new 170,000 sq. ft. store, the largest in B.C., replaced another smaller location in the community.

    hopestandard.com

  • WestJet plans to re-introduce a direct route from Terrace to Calgary. The service is expected to operate four-times-weekly starting December 1.

    haidagwaiiobserver.com

  • Four-Rivers Co-op is seeking to hire gas station employees after purchasing 10 Husky-owned gas stations and 6 additional fuelling contracts for Husky dealer-owned franchises in various northern B.C communities.

    haidagwaiiobserver.com

  • The Gorman Bros. Lumber Ltd. sawmill in West Kelowna plans to layoff 11 employees due to timber supply challenges..

    castanet.net

  • Imagine Cannabis has opened a new retail location in Coquitlam.

    tricitynews.com

  • A new Hulu and ABC Signature TV series has begun filming in B.C, with its production office in Richmond. Filming is scheduled from October 12 to March 3, 2023.

    richmond-news.com

  • The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George announced plans to increase bursary funding offered to School District 57, UNBC and College of New Caledonia students.

    princegeorgecitizen.com
• Week of 2022-10-17 to 2022-10-21

  • The Government of Canada announced plans to forgive up to 50% of the COVID Indigenous Business Initiative loans, to support the recovery of Indigenous small and medium sized enterprises.

    newswire.ca

  • The B.C. government is expanding access to the small business tax rate, to support the recovery and growth of small and medium-sized businesses.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $20M to support the Taku River Tlingit First Nation led clean energy project for communities in the Northwest of the province and the Yukon.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is contributing $50M to support the development of the new Vancouver Art Gallery. The project is expected to generate an estimated 3,000 construction jobs and support 1,000 permanent jobs in the toursim sector.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Cascadia Seaweed has received $4.3M in funding from Sustainable Development Technology Canada, to support the development of a 100-hectare seaweed farm and agrifeed processing facility in northern B.C., near Prince Rupert.

    thefishsite.com

  • Jollibee, a global fast-food chain, opened a new location in downtown Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Chutneys Indian Grill opened a new restaurant location in Abbotsford.

    dailyhive.com

  • Flair Airlines plans to introduce a direct route from Abbotsford to Waterloo, Ontario. The service is expected to operate three times a week starting on May 9, 2023.

    dailyhive.com

  • Waffle House Restaurant, located in New Westminster, is closing due to re-zoning.

    dailyhive.com

  • Darwynn, plans to open a new 113,000 sq. ft. distribution centre this November in Surrey. The technology-driven distribution company, aims to hire around 100 full-time workers.

    .biv.com

  • Pourquois Pas, a new bakery and café located in Coquitlam, plans to open later this year.

    tricitynews.com

  • Capital Iron, a general store located in Victoria and Langford, will close both locations in December due to challenges arising from COVID-19.

    timescolonist.com

  • Thai Express plans to open a new location at the Abbotsford Highstreet Shopping Centre.

    abbynews.com

  • The Union, a restaurant located in Vancouver’s Chinatown, permanently closed in October.

    dailyhive.com

  • Canfor Pulp Products Inc. extended a maintenance shutdown until October 24 at its Intercontinental pulp mill in Prince George, due to a lack of fiber.

    westerninvestor.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing almost $1.2M in funding for 11 projects to support businesses in the tourism industry and enhance visitor experiences across British Columbia.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2022-10-10 to 2022-10-14

  • Butterica, located in New Westminster, opened its new Indian cuisine restaurant this month.

    newwestrecord.ca

  • Chronic Tacos, a Mexican cuisine chain restaurant located in New Westminster, will permanently close at the end of October.

    newwestrecord.ca

  • The Salt Spring Men’s Shed, part of a global community organization that advocates for social interaction and craftwork, opened its workshop on Salt Spring Island this month.

    gulfislandsdriftwood.com

  • The B.C. government is beginning permanent repairs to flood damaged sections of Highway 1 between Hope and Spences Bridge. The project is expected to be completed in 2024.

    hopestandard.com

  • Conifex Timber announced plans on October 11 to curtail operations for two weeks at its sawmill located in Mackenzie.

    lesprom.com

  • The University of British Columbia has begun construction on a new 101,000 square-foot recreation centre at its Vancouver campus. The project is expected to be completed in late 2024.

    reminetwork.com

  • Yao Yen Kitchen & Café, located in East Vancouver, opened to customers this month and offers dine-in and take-out options.

    dailyhive.com

  • Donuteria, based in New Westminster, is seeking to open two new locations in Vancouver and Coquitlam.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Mills Memorial Hospital construction project in Terrace is entering a new phase this month, with a workforce increasing from approximately 130 people to more than 200. The project is expected to be completed early 2025.

    terracestandard.com

  • Eco Tower Print, located in Duncan, recently opened its new aeroponics store, which offers advanced plant growing systems to customers.

    cowichanvalleycitizen.com

  • TransLink aims to hire more than 500 new workers by 2028, including 300 this fall, to support the Surry-Langley and Broadway Subway projects.

    tricitynews.com

  • The Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools’ board has approved a pilot project for before and after school care for school-aged children, set to begin fall 2023. The project is currently in the planning stage.

    nanaimobulletin.com

  • The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot program, which provides a path to permanent residency for skilled foreign workers in the Vernon-North Okanagan area, is expanding to include Salmon Arm, Sicamous and other Shuswap communities.

    vernonmorningstar.com

  • Spin, an e-mobility service provider headquartered in San Francisco, announced plans to lay off 10% of its workforce and terminate its operations in Kelowna, B.C.

    techcrunch.com

  • The B.C. government provided over $1.2M to the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations for a new Centre of Excellence in First Nations Economic Development, to support communities throughout the province. The new initiative will employ six people in its first year.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government signed a new climate agreement with the U.S. States of Washington, Oregon and California, to advance cross-border climate infrastructure investment and respond to climate-related challenges.

    burnabynow.com

  • Charlie’s Mexican Restaurant and Catering, located in Port Moody, permanently closed last month.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cariboo Pulp and Paper, a mill located in Quesnel, announced plans to curtail operations for 16 days beginning on October 29, due to challenges in timber supply and access. Around 160 employees are affected.

    quesnelobserver.com

  • The B.C. government announced new minimum-age restrictions for young workers in various sectors in the province. The new amendments will take effect on January 1.

    infomedia.gc.ca
• Week of 2022-10-03 to 2022-10-07

  • Various companies around Vancouver are hiring for over 242 positions across multiple sectors this October. Positions include retail sales, digital marketing, business management, and information technology.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is increasing mental health and addiction support services across correctional centres through the hiring of additional support staff, to aid inmate transitions after leaving prison.

    cbc.ca

  • Innovate BC has awarded $2.3M in funding to eight research and development projects aimed at accelerating the commercialization of biotech, cleantech, mining, agriculture, and forestry in the province.

    yahoo.com

  • 133 hospitality and food-service workers are now employed by Fraser Health, having been rehired through BC’s Bill 47. The Bill aims to bring previously contracted-out health-care service workers back into the public system.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $11.1M in funding for two projects at the University of British Columbia, to support research advancements in mRNA vaccines and the biotechnology field in B.C.

    newswire.ca

  • Teck Resources is providing $5M to the British Columbia Institute of Technology, located in Burnaby, to support campus redevelopment and new teaching and learning innovations as well as to expand the use of antimicrobial copper across BCIT’s campuses.

    teck.com

  • Cascades Casino Delta, a new casino and hotel in Delta, officially opened on September 29.

    delta-optimist.com

  • Kelowna International Airport announced plans to partner with Sutton Place Hotels for the development of a new hotel next to the terminal building. Construction is estimated to begin in 2023 for completion in 2026.

    storeys.com

  • Artemis Gold is seeking funding to develop its Blackwater Gold project, a planned open-pit gold mine located in central British Columbia, approximately 160 km southwest of Prince George.

    canadianinvestor.com

  • Willingdon Lands, a 40 acre Indigenous-owned project in Burnaby, plans to develop 5,200 new housing units and also incorporate about 450,000 square feet of film and TV production studio space with over 3,050 full-time jobs.

    .biv.com

  • Air Canada plans to introduce a direct route from Vancouver to Houston. The service is expected to operate daily starting on December 16, 2022.

    dailyhive.com

  • School District 40, which operates schools in New Westminster, is planning to build a new 600-student elementary school in Simcoe Park. The project is currently in the conceptual stage.

    newwestrecord.ca

  • LNG Canada is boosting construction at its liquefied natural gas terminal in Kitimat, with its workforce expected to peak at 7,500 people next year.

    terracestandard.com

  • The Ksan Society in Terrace began reducing daytime hours for one of its homeless shelters since Sept 30th due to staff shortages. The society is seeking to fill a number of vacant positions.

    terracestandard.com

  • The Progressive Housing Society has opened its five winter shelters for those experiencing homelessness in Port Moody, Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam to offer nightly spaces during the fall and winter months.

    tricitynews.com
• Week of 2022-09-26 to 2022-09-30

  • BC Emergency Health Services is expanding ambulance resources in Nakusp by adding eight new full-time paramedic positions.

    yahoo.com

  • Uride announced it will begin offering its ridesharing services in Prince George this October.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • SOLID Outreach Society received $80,000 from the B.C. government to support ongoing health education and support services for harm reduction associated with drug use in Victoria.

    timescolonist.com

  • The City of Delta is preparing for the construction of the new $1.75M North Delta Track Field House. The project is expected to be completed in spring 2023.

    delta-optimist.com

  • Polaris Realty is planning a rehabilitation project that will see Vancouver’s Harbour Centre partially converted into a data centre for cloud and connectivity services.

    .biv.com

  • Fashion retailer, Artizia, aims to hire more than 2000 roles across its distribution centre, concierge, and retail teams in B.C.

    dailyhive.com

  • Virtuous Pie, a restaurant offering plant based pizza, will be closing its Wesbrook Village location at the University of British Columbia.

    dailyhive.com

  • Capilano University, located in North Vancouver, has begun work on a new $18.6M centre for childhood studies that will have new educational spaces as well as 74 additional child care spaces.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Kelowna Gospel Mission is seeking to fill 22 positions to support the opening of its new emergency shelter this month.

    castanet.net

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.4M in funding to Atli Chip LP, located in Beaver Cove, through the Indigenous Forestry Initiative program, to support ongoing Indigenous-led economic development in the forestry sector.

    yahoo.com

  • The B.C. government has provided $900,000 in funding to the Justice Institute of British Columbia, located in Maple Ridge, for a new fire engine to enhance student firefighter training.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2022-09-19 to 2022-09-23

  • The federal government is providing over $5.5M to support small businesses in the province to prepare for the economic effects of climate change through CFBC. The funding is expected to help 900 businesses and maintain 4,500 jobs.

    vernonmorningstar.com

  • The B.C. Construction Association’s new $3.6M Building Builders program is now accepting applications. There are 300 positions available to people who are under-employed, out of work, unskilled, or unregistered apprentices.

    timescolonist.com

  • Hydra Energy began construction on a hydrogen refuelling station in Prince George this month. The station will serve trucks that have been converted to run on both hydrogen and diesel, and is expected to be completed in early 2024.

    castanet.net

  • Coming Home Coffee House in New Westminister permanently closed last week.

    newwestrecord.ca

  • The City of Nelson issued 177 new housing permits this year, compared to 46 at this time in 2021. The estimated value is almost $43M. Several other large construction projects are also underway.

    nelsonstar.com

  • The new Gorge Road Urgent and Primary Care Centre in Victoria officially opened this month It is the seventh operational centre on the Island.

    timescolonist.com

  • The British Columbia government is providing over $25M in carbon tax revenue to support 26 new projects that aim to reduce climate pollution and create job opportunities for people in the clean economy.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and Abbotsford Mission Water Sewer Commission are building a new $84.4M well and water-treatment system in the City of Abbotsford.

    theprogress.com

  • Fresh BC Talent Quest is offering a two-day workshop this October in Penticton for young performers to learn the basics of stage shows, audience interaction, and vocal skills.

    pentictonherald.ca

  • Save-On-Foods opened a new location at Coquitlam’s Sunwood Square Mall at the beginning of the month.

    dailyhive.com

  • The British Columbia government provided over $30M through the BC Knowledge Development Fund to support 120 post-secondary research projects at 8 universities in the province.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Canfor Corporation began a two-week production curtailment on September 26th at most production facilities in the province. After the two-week period the company will run a reduced operating schedule through the rest of 2022.

    canfor.com
• Week of 2022-09-12 to 2022-09-16

  • Tap & Barrel restaurant and bar will open a new south Surrey location on September 27, and will offer nearly 500 seats for indoor dining and year-round outdoor dining.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Very Good Butcher, a BC-based vegan food company, has decided to terminate plans for a Vancouver flagship store location in an effort to improve production efficiencies and reduce overhead.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Ocean Legacy Foundation has received a grant from the Government of Canada and approval from the Regional District of Mount Waddington to set up a marine waste sorting site at the Seven Mile Landfill and Recycling Centre in Port McNeill.

    northislandeagle.com

  • The University of Northern British Columbia, located in Prince George, in association with Mitacs, announced a new Indigenous student research initiative which includes 10 six-month internships and 12 Indigenous student awards.

    unbc.ca

  • Coastal GasLink is seeking to increase its workforce by up to 1,200 workers at a camp south of Houston, to finish its 670 km long natural gas pipeline from northeastern B.C. to the LNG Canada liquefied natural gas plant in Kitimat.

    houston-today.com

  • Cascades Casino Delta, a new casino and hotel in Delta, will officially open on September 29, creating over 600 jobs.

    dailyhive.com

  • Business aviation company, Fast Air, plans to open their new executive hangar complex later this fall, offering corporate jet services at the Abbotsford International Airport.

    abbynews.com

  • The Columbia Basin Trust has successfully added 125 kilometers of high-speed fibre optic cable to its broadband network in the Slocan Valley to just north of Nakusp, serving residents and businesses in the area.

    trailtimes.ca

  • Milk Bar, a bakery chain, plans to open a new store location in downtown Vancouver this fall.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Town of Oliver has received around $600,000 in funding from the federal government to support the development of a multi-purpose outdoor plaza.

    timeschronicle.ca
• Week of 2022-09-05 to 2022-09-09

  • The Capital Regional District will provide a new natural gas energy plant to Hartland Landfill in Victoria. Waga Energy will build the facility by 2024, replacing the old facility, and operate it for the next 25 years for the regional district.

    ctvnews.ca

  • The provincial government has approved up to $22.8M, with The Central Okanagan School District providing $500,000, to add 12 classrooms to École Dr. Knox Middle school in Kelowna. Construction will begin early in 2023 and finish Fall 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $10M in infrastructure and facility funding to upgrade the Pacific National Exhibition and support cultural, sporting and family events in Vancouver. Funding is also expected to maintain over 4,000 jobs for the annual Summer Fair.

    newswire.ca

  • The provincial government is spending up to $5.7M for a gym at Upper Halfway School. The Peace River North School District is providing $29,000 more to the project. Construction will be completed in Fall 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Okanagan College, located in Kelowna, has begun a new 30-week program that trains Indigenous women as carpenters for in-demand trades’ jobs. The Okanagan Training and Development Council will sponsor students with funds from the B.C. Government.

    cbc.ca

  • The provincial government’s CleanBC Building Innovation Fund is providing $5M towards seven low-carbon, energy-efficient building practices and technology projects. CBBIF provides funds to manufactures and innovators to develop such technologies.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The provincial government is providing over $575,000 to the Squamish Nation through the Community and Employer Partnerships project to train and certify 24 eligible people in its Indigenous building maintenance worker training program.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The provincial government has brought health-service workers back under the public system through Bill 47. Workers are being repatriated from the private to the public system, with 526 food-service workers returning under Vancouver Coastal Health.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Quesnel's G.R. Baker Memorial Hospital emergency department and intensive care unit upgrades will be completed at the end of Fall 2022 for use in February 2023. The upgrades were originally planned to be completed and open by Fall 2022.

    quesnelobserver.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $50,000 for the Kootenay Lake Historical Society,located in Kaslo, to renovate the SS Moyie, the oldest intact passenger sternwheeler in the world and a National Historic Site of Canada.

    newswire.ca

  • The B.C. Government is providing $87M to build 266 new student housing beds and a new dining hall at the Vancouver Island University’s Nanaimo campus.

    westerlynews.ca

  • The governments of Canada and British Columbia are providing nearly $1.9M to support high-speed internet access projects for 663 rural households on Keats Island and in New Brighton, British Columbia.

    yahoo.com