Rural advisors for Tahsis and Mowachaht Muchalaht First Nation focus on eco-tourism

“There are very few First Nation-led tourism businesses in the territory,” says Gauthier, “so we focused on developing partnerships with existing businesses. We want to help build their capacity. By creating packages, we can make it easier for visitors to experience this beautiful region.”
Nootka Region
Image courtesy of Mowachaht Muchalaht First Nation/Explore Nootka

Creating a sense of place and food security in ’Yalis

You learn skills, you learn patience – things don’t grow quick, it takes time. You’re building up self-esteem, confidence, and getting them to have a good feeling of what it’s like to care for and feed your community.

How a shared kitchen is growing success for Comox Valley farmers and families

For more than 20 years, LUSH Valley has run healthy food programs and advocated for increased food security across the Comox Valley. In 2023, Lush Valley built a commercial kitchen in Courtenay’s Tin Town neighbourhood through an investment with Island Coastal Economic Trust.
In 2023, LUSH Valley distributed 11,000 Good Food Boxes across the Comox Valley.

About Island Coastal Economic Trust

We strategically invest in inclusive economic development, diversification, and innovation in partnership with communities across Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, and island and inlets from the Salish Sea to Cape Caution.

Learn about how we empower communities and our regional impact in our latest Impact Report. 

$60 million

invested in communities

$333 million

total investment impact

2,910

permanent jobs created