Strategic initiative will collaborate with Nanaimo’s non-profit sector to develop a roadmap that increases economic impact and community support.
Nanaimo became the first Canadian city to adopt a theory known as “doughnut economics,” which calls for a balance between growth and quality of life. The non-profit sector plays a vital role in this sustainable development model that seeks to create a prosperous, socially just, and environmentally sustainable community. Through this new project, the City of Nanaimo believes it can enhance the local non-profit sector’s sustainability and effectiveness by quantifying its scope and co-creating a sector development roadmap.
This project will encompass a thorough analysis of the current not-for-profit sector, identify gaps, and develop strategies to strengthen the sector. The outcomes of this project include:
Island Coastal Economic Trust is investing with the City of Nanaimo through the Investment Readiness program to create positive impact focused on Innovation and Technology.
By producing a comprehensive report and roadmap with the local non-profit sector, the City of Nanaimo is enhancing the sector’s sustainability to strengthen community wellbeing in measurable ways.
Economic Prosperity: The study includes financial and operational analysis of the not-for-profit sector, recognizing its vital role in the local economy and will provide recommendations on how to collectively enhance its impact.
Social Empowerment: Strengthening the non-profit sector’s capacity increases its opportunity to serve the community, empowering underrepresented and vulnerable groups. The study will highlight and quantify the critical social services, social cohesion, and civic engagement provided by the existing non-profit sector. Through its findings and recommendations, the study will also support the growth of these organizations, leading to more jobs and improved outcomes across the community.
Climate Resiliency: The City of Nanaimo adopted significant climate resilience goals within its 25-year vision. Through this study, they will recognize organizations doing vital conservation work within the community, while also encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices across the sector.
Cultural Vitality: The initiative emphasizes and recognizes the cultural contributions of non-profit organizations and their role in enriching community life and cultural heritage.
“The City of Nanaimo is committed to supporting our vibrant not-for-profit sector. This project will provide essential insights into the sector’s contributions and help us develop strategies to enhance its impact. Understanding the economic, social, and environmental roles of the not-for-profits in our community is crucial for their continued growth and sustainability.” Amrit Manhas, Economic Development Officer, City of Nanaimo
“We all want ‘better’ lives for ourselves and our fellow citizens. This will help guide thoughtful, effective, and successful approaches that will make ‘better’ real for all of us. Well-meaning approaches without co-ordination will not begin to achieve our collective ambitions to build stronger communities. I am so pleased to see this imaginative initiative move forward which will utilize our best instincts and hopes.” – Leonard Krog, Mayor, City of Nanaimo.
“People in Nanaimo want economic growth to support the entire community, and the not-for-profit sector has special strengths here. That’s why our government funded non-profits $90M to support their work post-COVID, and we fund the Trust, too. The Trust’s funding for non-profits active in community economic development helps us build an economy that works for everyone.” – Hon Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo
“The City of Nanaimo is a leader in prioritizing equitable economics, emphasizing the wellbeing of its residents and environment alongside business growth. With our investment, we believe the City will build the foundation to strengthen its non-profit sector as a vital step towards achieving its priority to better serve all community members.” – Aaron Stone, Chair, Island Coastal Economic Trust
Jeff Bartlett
Communications and Impact Manager
Island Coastal Economic Trust
jeff@islandcoastaltrust.ca
250-871-7797
Amrit Manhas
Economic Development Officer
City of Nanaimo
amrit.manhas@nanaimo.ca
250-755-4465
Island Coastal Economic Trust approved funding for this project in July 2024 through the Investment Readiness program.
We work in reciprocal relationships with coastal communities across the ancestral territories of the Kwak̓wala, Nuučaan̓uɫ, Éy7á7juuthem, Ligwilda'xw, Pəntl'áč, She shashishalhem, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh, Hul’q’umi’num’, diitiidʔaatx̣, SENĆOŦEN, Lekwungen, and T’Sou-ke speaking peoples.
