COEDC Newsletter

Sep. 21

Written By COEDC RDCO

Central Okanagan Economic News(letter)

View in Browser

Economic Development News(letter)

September 21st, 2023

A conversation with WFN Chief Louie

Join Kelowna Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, October 5th as Chief Robert Louie of Westbank First Nation provides an update on the state of the economy and future direction of WFN. Chief Louie will provide insight into the economic impact of Indigenous businesses and how we can continue our journey of Truth & Reconciliation. Aside from reflecting on the past and future he'll also provide an update on the impact of the wildfires on WFN.

Attendees will be able to gather insights from the presentation and be given the opportunity to engage with Chief Louie via Slido.

TOTA Hospitality Professional Program

Applications are now open for the Hospitality Professional Program (HPP), a free virtual program delivered by Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) and Okanagan

College.

This part-time training program will prepare participants for a variety of positions, including supervisory positions within the hospitality sector in the Thompson Okanagan region.

Participants will come together in a virtual classroom, facilitated by a diverse roster of experienced hospitality instructors.

This is an excellent opportunity for seasonal employees to gain skills and advanced knowledge in preparation for full-time employment in the summer season.

Thursday, September 21 at 7 PM (PST)

Application Deadline: Friday, September 29, 2023

Learn More & Apply

Applications for an Okanagan Flavoured Pitch & Plate Event are Now Open!

The Pitch & Plate event provides B.C. food and beverage brands with a direct opportunity to access the institutional food service market channel, specifically post-secondary institutions and healthcare facilities, while also giving B.C. institutions the opportunity to pioneer new and innovative local products.

This market channel typically takes years to navigate and create relationships in, however Pitch & Plate creates that opportunity for connection in one afternoon!

On November 23, 2023 Good to Grow is set to deliver an online event to highlight products from B.C.’s Okanagan region ready to sell to post-secondary or healthcare institutions. Buyers from across B.C. are invited to attend.

Deadline to Apply: Monday, October 9, 2023

Learn More & Apply

Government Extends Deadline for CEBA Loan Repayment

On September 14, 2023, it was announced the deadline for Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) loan repayments has been extended by one year. A small extension and refinancing options have been created for those seeking the partial loan forgiveness.

The network of BC Chambers has been advocating for an extension.

If you have any questions about CEBA, we encourage you to contact your financial institution as they are closest to the terms.

Read the Full Release

Become a Mentor and make a difference in the life and business of a woman business owner!

WeBC has a lineup of women business owners who are waiting to be matched with a Mentor in their One-to-One Mentoring Program, and they need your help to connect with new Mentors to meet this demand!

While women and men in all industries are welcome to apply to become a Mentor, they have a few women on our waiting list who are looking for a Mentor with this expertise:

Financial Sector
Operations
HR
Healthcare
Strategic Planning

If you have over five years of experience owning your own business, the availability to commit to 6 two-hour sessions over six months, and a love for supporting other women, WeBC would love to hear from you.

Learn More & Apply

Business Continuity Resources

Being prepared for emergencies is crucial for the safety and well-being of ourselves, our loved ones, and our businesses.

We understand the importance of being proactive and ready for any unexpected events. That's why we encourage you to check out our Business Continuity Resources page, where you'll find helpful tips and resources to help you prepare for emergencies that could impact your business.

Let's work together to be proactive and stay informed.

Learn More

Events Calendar