Acquisition Strengthens Tiičma Enterprises’ Long-term Financial Sustainability
Tiičma Enterprises secured its permanent headquarters by transitioning from leasing to ownership in Campbell River. The strategic acquisition will provide greater economic security for the business and Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k:tles7et’h’ First Nations.
Legislative Chief Benjamin Gillette, Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’ / Che:kles7et’h’ First Nations, cuts the ribbon during the building acquisition open house. Photo courtesy of Tiičma Enterprises
Overview
Tiičma Enterprises, the economic development corporation of the Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k:tles7et’h’ First Nations, manages business operations in the Nation’s territories from its Campbell River headquarters. They oversee industries such as forestry, fisheries, hospitality/tourism, and property management, employing 94 people.
Through this investment, they purchased the office building where they currently operate, establishing a permanent headquarters for governance, business operations, and community services.
Island Coastal Economic Trust invested with Tiičma Enterprises through the Capital and Innovation program, with a focus on entrepreneurs and local businesses. The Trust has previously partnered with Tiičma Enterprises, including their strategic acquisition of a year-round floating resort for their Walter’s Cove Resort operations and an aquaculture logistics facility in Fair Harbour.
Strengthening Community Wellbeing
By transitioning from leasing to ownership, Tiičma Enterprises stabilizes its long-term operating costs and gains greater economic security for the Nation.
Quote’s about the project
“This remarkable milestone represents a moment of pride and achievement for Tiičma and the Ka:yu:’k’t’h’ / Che:k’tles7et’h’ First Nations. It emphasizes our commitment to progress, culture, and community. We are deeply honoured by the blessing of the We Wai Kai and We Wai Kum Nations. Their acknowledgment reflects our spirit of unity and collaboration that strengthens the relationships among our communities.” Cynthia Blackstone, Chair of KCFN Holdings and Chief Administrative Officer for the Nations
“We’ve been honoured by Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’ / Che:k’tles7et’h’ First Nations to partner on their strategic investment in the new Tiičma Enterprises corporate headquarters in Campbell River. At a time when many resource-based companies are scaling back, this project signals a forward-looking commitment to sustainable economic development and long-term employment for professionals in the community. This investment is rooted in Indigenous leadership and community-driven growth — a model of resilience and regional prosperity that will deliver lasting impact for Campbell River and northern Vancouver Island’s economy.” Brodie Guy, CEO, Island Coastal Economic Trust
Media Contact
Brodie Guy
CEO
Island Coastal Economic Trust
Brodie@islandcoastaltrust.ca
250-871-7797
Gary Wilson
Chief Executive and Director of Economic Development
Tiičma Enterprises
garyw@tiicma.com
(250) 850-2540
Project Details
Project Impact
The Trust invests in projects using a Wellbeing Impact Framework that looks beyond traditional economic metrics. This approach evaluates how each investment strengthens economic prosperity, cultural vitality, climate resilience, and social empowerment. By focusing on outcomes that matter to people and place, the Trust works to spur new investments that create meaningful, lasting benefits across Vancouver Island and the coast.
Economic Prosperity
- This project secures a permanent asset for Tiičma Enterprises, ensuring that rent payments are converted into equity and long-term financial stability. It also provides venue opportunities from commercial tenants and creates space for a business incubator to support Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k:tles7et’h’entrepreneurs with mentorship, training, and shared office infrastructure.
Cultural Vitality
- By ensuring that Tiičma Enterprises and Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k:tles7et’h’First Nations have a stable space for governance and community engagement in Campbell River, where many of its members live, the building also supports resilient cultural celebration and preservation.
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