The results of the initial filtering led to 56 opportunities being identified for consideration. Opportunities were then ranked according to four criteria and an average total score was determined.
The Village of Tahsis experienced important population and economic declines following the closure of two sawmills in 2003. Despite the challenges that resulted from the closures, sport fishing and tourism have redefined Tahsis as a tourist destination during the summer months. The community wishes to capitalize on this existing market by developing an economic development strategy which builds upon its existing physical and natural assets and businesses and identifies new economic opportunities.
The project included a comprehensive analysis of demographics and current economic drivers, including tourism. Community workshops were held to engage stakeholders and identify strategic opportunities for growth and diversification. The community has fully embraced this proactive approach to advancing Tahsis’ economic wellbeing.
This project was completed in March 2014, resulting in an Economic Development Vision Statement that is based on the economic drivers of the community and region as well as community values and desires. The Vision is supported by a 5 year plan with 23 actionable economic development strategies.
This project is also serving as an important tool to increase collaboration with other communities, First Nations and other regional partners. To date new relationships and joint projects have been initiated as a result of this work.
Island Coastal Economic Trust approved funding for this project in 2015 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.