Founded by the Province, Governed by Coastal Communities
Island Coastal Economic Trust is a regional economic development organization honoured to be serving Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, and the islands and inlets from the Salish Sea to Cape Caution.
Established in 2006 by the Province of British Columbia under the North Island-Coast Development Initiative Trust Act, the Trust was created to support economic diversification, resilience, and sustainable prosperity in coastal communities.
Our work is built on strong relationships and local leadership. We collaborate with First Nations, local and regional governments, non-profit organizations, industry associations, educational institutions, and community partners to advance projects and initiatives that strengthen the region’s economy and quality of life.
Synergy Foundation Circular Economy Ecosystem Project. Image by NAAS Foods.
Working Together for Regional Prosperity
Since 2006, Island Coastal Economic Trust has invested more than $68 million in community-led economic development initiatives across British Columbia’s coastal region. Through our locally driven and accountable funding programs, communities have leveraged those investments into more than $406.5 million in project funding.
Together with our partners, we help create lasting economic opportunities, support emerging and traditional industries, strengthen community infrastructure, and foster the innovation needed for coastal communities to thrive in a changing world.
invested since 2006
leveraged in project funding
Ladysmith, Heart of the Hub. Image by Island Coastal Economic Trust.
Building the Future of B.C.'s Coast
Today, we continue to invest in projects, partnerships, and people that build stronger, more resilient coastal economies. Guided by our vision and strategic priorities, we are working alongside communities to create lasting prosperity and wellbeing across British Columbia’s coast.
Our Vision
Island and coastal communities are thriving with a resilient economy that strengthens the wellbeing of all people and the environment.
Our Mission
To strategically invest in inclusive economic development, diversification, and innovation in partnership with communities across Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, and islands and inlets from the Salish Sea to Cape Caution.
Our Values
Trust and Reciprocity
We foster high-trust, reciprocal relationships across our region.
Compassion and Collaboration
We achieve more together by embracing empathy and curiosity.
Honesty and Integrity
We conduct ourselves with uncompromising honesty and integrity.
Learning and Growing
We are always learning and embracing challenges with a growth mindset.
Transparency and Accountability
We are responsible for our actions and openly communicate our decisions.
See the Full Picture of Our Impact
Discover how our investments are creating measurable change across coastal communities.