Labour Market News

Want to find out more about local or provincial labour market history? The labour market news archive may be a good place to start.

In this section, you can browse archived news titles, whose links are no longer functional, for up to one year from the current date. The archived news can help you understand the labour market trends in geographic areas and industries that are of interest to you.

• Week of 2024-05-20 to 2024-05-24

  • The B.C. government is accepting applications for ChildCare BC New Spaces Fund, to support child care spaces throughout the province. The two streams include major capital grants over $500,000 and minor capital grants under $500,000.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of British Columbia’s BC Growing Communities Fund has provided over $1M to the City of Chilliwack for five amenity projects. These funds went towards the construction of recreational improvements to several parks.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Malahat Battery Technologies Corp, a joint venture between the Malahat Nation and Energy Plug Technologies Corp, is working to build a $100M battery plant on reserve land. Construction is expected to begin at the end of June and complete by October 2025. The joint venture will create up to 200 jobs for the region.

    www.msn.com

  • The Government of British Columbia is providing more than $2M over two years to a pilot project to integrate childcare options into schools. The schools taking part in the project are in Chilliwack, Nanaimo-Ladysmith, and Nechako Lakes. This initiative will create an estimated 180 licensed childcare spaces.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of British Columbia has provided the Comox Valley Regional District with a $500K grant to build a multi-use path to Royston Elementary. Construction will be completed by March 31, 2025 to comply with the terms of the grant.

    cheknews.ca

  • A new control tower is being constructed at Victoria International Airport. The tower will use green power and is built to energy and environmental design standards. Construction of the tower is expected to complete in 2027.

    ctvnews.ca

  • High-speed internet has been connected to 390 households in Sheridan Lake. The Government of British Columbia contributed $1.3M towards this project through the Northern Development Initiative Trust. This upgrade will help create opportunities for members of the community.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The municipalities of Victoria and Saanich have partnered with Landlord BC and BC Hydro to offer incentives for owners of rental buildings to improve their energy efficiency. Under the Rental Apartment Retrofit Accelerator Program, owners can apply for tax exemptions to make the upgrades which may cover up to 100 per cent of the costs.

    cheknews.ca

  • The Governments of Canada and British Columbia have jointly opened the Fernie Skate Park. The governments provided a combined $1.28M for the project through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The skate park will become a hub for Fernie’s youth programs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • JYSK has opened a new 27,000 sq. ft. store in Kelowna.

    kelownanow.com

  • The BC Manufacturing Job Fund has provided about $472K to two Cariboo companies to help create long-term, well-paying jobs. TsiDelDel Development Corporation will use the funds to purchase equipment for the creation of a sort yard for biomass and to create up to 16 jobs. Grosso Precast Limited will use the funds to plan for a capital project to double its production capacity.

    mycariboonow.com

  • The Governments of Canada and British Columbia are partnering with CityWest and the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako to provide over $9M to connect communities in northern B.C. to high-speed internet. The communities of Fort St. James, Williams Prairie Meadow 1A, Cluculz Lake area and Burns Lake areas will get new infrastructure from this funding.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Ted Baker, a men's clothing retailer that also operates stores under the Brooks Brothers and Lucky Brands in Canada, is starting store-closing liquidation sales as it works through insolvency proceedings. Stores slated for closure in Canada have not been identified.

    cbc.ca

  • RaceRocks 3D, an Indigenous-owned aerospace and defence training company, is launching its Indigenous internship and graduate program in Victoria on June 3. The program will provide participants with the necessary skills to work in the aerospace and defence industries.

    saanichnews.com

  • Capilano University has signed a 5-year contract with the Government of British Columbia to provide language and settlement services through the BC Newcomer Services program. These supports will be available to those who are new to living and working in Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton, Lillooet, Sechelt, Gibsons and Powell River.

    capilanou.ca

  • TELUS is spending $17B to expand and improve its network infrastructure and business operations across British Columbia over the next five years. Improvements will include enhancements to its 5G network, expanded coverage to remote Canadians and increased energy efficiency of its operations.

    businessexaminer.ca

  • The Governments of Canada and British Columbia have announced nearly $254M in rebates to convert home heating and cooling systems to energy efficient heat pumps.

    tricitynews.com

  • Spexi Geospatial, a Vancouver-based software and imagery network, has been awarded an over $1M contract by the Government of Canada to capture drone imagery for use in emergency preparedness projects. These images will be used to improve responses to wildfires and other disasters.

    morningstar.com

  • Over the summer, the Government of British Columbia will be spending $53M repaving and resurfacing 260 km of northern highways. Significant projects are taking place in the areas of Smithers, Terrace, Chetwynd, Lasalle Lake, Pinetree Lake and North Stikine Hill.

    www.biv.com

  • According to Western Forest Products first-quarter earnings report, the company is working to offer more value-added products to its customers. The company announced that it has advanced permitting for two continuous dry kilns, one at its Duke Point sawmill in Nanaimo and one in Chemainus, B.C., with both expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

    woodworkingnetwork.com

  • Shizenya on Broadway is closing its restaurant in Vancouver in May. The restaurant has been open for almost a decade. Shizenya's downtown Vancouver location will remain open.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of New Westminster is hiring for several jobs including food service worker, office assistant, and finance clerk.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cioppino's Mediterranean Grill is closing its restaurant in Vancouver in December. The restaurant has been open for 25 years.

    dailyhive.com

  • Simon Fraser University has eliminated 85 positions, including instructors, administrative support, and custodial staff, at its three B.C. campuses (Vancouver, Burnaby, and Surrey). The university stated the restructuring is due to a decline of international students and other financial challenges.

    cbc.ca

  • The B.C. government has provided $7.6M towards phase 2 of Thunderbird Manor, providing 35 affordable homes to Indigenous people in Vernon.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government purchased the Sunrise Gardens in Vernon for $3.1M, preserving 26 affordable rental homes. The purchase provides rental protection, keeping rents at 45% less than the market rental rate.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing 60 new temporary homes to support people who are experiencing homelessness in Kelowna. The homes include 24/7 staffing, meals, life-skills training, medical care and connections to community services. People will move into the Trailside Transitional Housing starting mid-May 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Macu Tea, a fruit tea shop, is planning to open two more shops in Metro Vancouver. The new locations are Burnaby and Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $8.2M in funding to support 189 community projects, including programs regarding safety and crime prevention. 79 projects will focus on domestic violence prevention and addressing gender-based violence.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2024-05-13 to 2024-05-17

  • Northern Development Initiative Trust has approved $1.2m in funding for projects throughout Northern B.C. The Glen Vowell Band will receive $130,632 to scale up modular hydroponic farming operations to double its capacity for fresh produce, increasing food security for the community.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • The second season of the HBO drama series The Last of Us has begun filming in downtown Nanaimo. The first season was filmed in Alberta, where it produced about $140M in economic activity. The show is believed to be one of the biggest television shows ever filmed in Canada.

    www.msn.com

  • The Government of British Columbia has announced it will not be approving the opening of any new jade mines in the northwest of the province, citing concerns about environmental damage. The government has set a five-year wind-down period for all existing operations.

    cbc.ca

  • The Government of British Columbia is providing $8M through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund to help Tolko Industries expand its Heffley Creek operation. These expansions will include the construction of a new Heffley Creek Engineered Wood Division facility. The funds will help maintain the 250 staff at the site and is also expected to create 20 new jobs.

    tolko.com

  • Paul Le Café, has opened a grab-and-go café in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Vernon has started work on of the Greater Vernon Cultural Centre. The $41.9M centre was first approved in 2018 and had been pending approvals and funding.

    castanet.net

  • A part-time walk-in clinic has opened at the CareConnect I.D.A Pharmacy in Vernon. The walk-in clinic is available between Monday to Thursday from 9:00am to 1:00pm and is the only walk-in clinic in the city.

    castanet.net

  • Connector Brewing, a fully plant-based brewery, has opened in West Kelowna.

    castanet.net

  • Bread Culture is opening a bakery in Vancouver in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Arbutus Club is hiring for various positions in Vancouver. Positions include physiotherapist, hockey director, cook, building operators, recreational instructors, and janitors.

    dailyhive.com

  • Impostori Trattoria is closing its Italian restaurant in Vancouver in June.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $2.25M to Okanagan Skaha School District to build additional child care spaces in Penticton. The funding supports 34 child care spaces at the Leapin Lizard`s Daycare Centre.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial government are providing a combined $254.7M to support families on home heating and cooling costs. The expanded program provides eligible applicants with rebates up to $24,000 for the installation of heat pumps for low-and middle-income households.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is working on amendments to limit rent increases between tenancies at single-room occupancy (SRO) buildings in the Vancouver Downtown Eastside. If the amendments are passed, it will protect as many as 1,000 people from losing their homes.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing Vision Zero grants to improve road safety in 56 communities, including 22 projects in First Nations communities. Some of the projects will receive up to $20,000.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal, provincial, and municipal governments are providing $13M to strengthen flood protection infrastructure in Richmond. The projects include raising dikes, improving culverts and a new above-ground utility building. The upgrades will protect over 29,000 residents, 50 businesses and 8 square km of agricultural land from flooding.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government opened a new Urgent and Primary Care Centre (UPCC) in Langley. The current temporary location will be moving to a permanent location with expanded hours of operation and staffing in one year after the construction of the new facility is completed.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada completed multiple road infrastructure projects in 2023. The government funded $3.14M to repave road and bike lanes for the City of Chilliwack.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Northern Development Initiative Trust has approved $1.2m in funding for projects throughout Northern B.C. The District of Vanderhoof will receive $141,585 to upgrade the Vanderhoof Arena's heating/cooling system, increasing energy efficiency.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • Northern Development Initiative Trust has approved $1.2m in funding for projects throughout Northern B.C. The City of Quenel will receive $200,000 towards a new apartment block providing 57 new, self-contained residential dwelling units for rent. The building includes 42 single bedroom and 15 two-bedroom apartments.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • Northern Development Initiative Trust has approved $1.2m in funding for projects throughout Northern B.C. The Prince Rupert Golf Club will receive $200,000 to revitalize and restore damage to the course and increase accessibility and equitable play.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • Northern Development Initiative Trust has approved $1.2m in funding for projects throughout Northern B.C. The District of Chetwynd will receive $256,610 to install a new 400m running track at Rotary Park.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • Northern Development Initiative Trust has approved $1.2m in funding for projects throughout Northern BC. Prince George wil receive $300,000 to relocate and enhance its Visitor Information Center, develop an open-air market, and construct a year-round outdoor skating facility.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca
• Week of 2024-05-06 to 2024-05-10

  • Burnaby-based Interfor Corporation has announced plans to reduce its lumber production by 175M board feet between May and September 2024. These temporary curtailments will impact all operating regions of the company. Interfor cites persistently weak market conditions for the curtailments.

    interfor.com

  • Black Sheep Coffee Bar has closed its café in Kelowna as of the end of April.

    castanet.net

  • Starting June 5, 2024, American Airlines is adding a new daily direct flight between Vancouver, B.C. and Charlotte, North Carolina, USA.

    dailyhive.com

  • The District of Squamish is hiring for several positions, including Plumbing Inspector, Engineering Technician Coordinator, Detachment Clerk, Utilities Clerk and Environmental Specialist.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cantaritos Mexican Grill has opened a restaurant in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Pacific National Exhibition is recruiting for artists and live performers for their annual Fright Night event in October. Auditions are from May 14 to 21.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Bank of Montreal (BMO) branch in Enderby permanently closed in April 2024. A BMO automated machine opened in Askew's Foods in Enderby. For full-bank service, the closest BMO is in Salmon Arm.

    castanet.net

  • Myst Asian Bistro, a Taiwanese restaurant, has opened a second location in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Haidilao Hot Pot has opened a 8,600 sq. ft. restaurant in Burnaby in May. This is the third and the biggest location in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $1M to the Tkemlups’ Chief Louis Crossing commercial project. The development includes a new gas station, a restaurant and other amenities.

    castanet.net

  • The B.C. government is hiring for Senior investigators for short-term rentals, after new government regulations on short term rentals became effective on May 1, 2024. The positions are available in Burnaby, Kelowna, and Victoria.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is hiring for Senior investigators for short-term rentals, after new government regulations on short term rentals became effective on May 1, 2024. The positions are available in Burnaby, Kelowna, and Victoria.

    dailyhive.com

  • Jamjar Canteen has closed it's restaurant in North Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • A Vancouver Buy-Low Foods at Kingsgate Mall is transitioning to a Save-On-Foods in May.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $15M to protect the primary water source for Lake Country and the Greater Vernon area from the risk of wildfire. The multi-year fire mitigation project includes the removal of flammable wood material and removal of fallen or dead debris.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $155.7M to recruit and retain specialized workers in health care. The funding includes $73.1M towards health and clinical workers in rural areas, $60M towards professional development and mental health and wellness services for workers and $15M for peer support and mentorship.

    cbc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1M to upgrade infrastructure in the University Endowment Lands, near Vancouver. The project includes 4,500m of green space and 490m of walking path.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is hiring for Senior investigators for short-term rentals, after new government regulations on short term rentals became effective on May 1, 2024. The positions are available in Burnaby, Kelowna, and Victoria.

    dailyhive.com

  • Sunny Side Up has closed its restaurant in Vancouver after opening for five months. The restaurant is planning on a relocation in the future.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Port Alberni and the Western Vancouver Island Industrial Heritage Society have partnered for a one-year agreement to operate a passenger train service along the waterfront. The train will run between APD Sawmill and Dry Creek with tickets costing around $6/rider. The city will contribute $113,935 for the Society's capital budget and $60,000 to its operating budget.

    albernivalleynews.com

  • A new, 103-room, 6-storey Marriott hotel has had its rezoning application approved in Langford. The hotel is estimated to create between 30-40 jobs.

    goldstreamgazette.com

  • BC Transit will be purchasing 66 new electric buses and installing 134 electric bus charging points over the next two years. The charging ports will be installed in Chilliwack, Kamloops, Kelowna, the Regional District of Nanaimo, Nelson, Powell River, Sunshine Coast, Victoria, and Whistler. The funding comes from a joint federal and provincial package of $395.5m announced in July 2023.

    prpeak.com

  • Employment at BC Hydro's Site C dam rose to 2,801 people in March, up from 2,721 in February. However, overall employment at Site C is expected to decrease as major milestones are completed.

    energeticcity.ca

  • Trail Council has awarded a $1.52m contract to West Kootenay Mechanical to upgrade the underfloor heating, ammonia plant, and dehumidifier in the Kids Rink. The project is expected to be completed by July 2024.

    trailtimes.ca

  • Thompson Rivers University Williams Lake is now offering an early childhood education program to address the lack of childcare spaces in the region. The full time, condensed diploma program will have 25 seats available and begins in September with practicums included.

    wltribune.com

  • The City of Fort St. John has awarded a $590,916.90 contract to Northern Legendary Construction Ltd. of Charlie Lake to install lighting fixtures along the Hospital Trail. 60% of the budget will come from the BC Active Transportation Grant with the remainder coming from city budgets.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The Kitsumkalum First Nation has purchased Skeena Sawmills and the Skeena Bioenergy pellet plant for over $14M in Terrace, British Columbia. The facilities have been in receivership since summer 2023. There are no projected opening dates for either facility yet.

    terracestandard.com

  • Canfor Corporation, a Vancouver-based forest product company, announced a loss of $86M in Q1 2024. According to the release, sustained pressure on global lumber markets, especially for Southern Yellow Pine, impacted the company’s results in the US South. The company also struggled with accessing economically viable fibre in British Columbia, impacting results in Western Canada.

    canfor.com
• Week of 2024-04-29 to 2024-05-03

  • The Government of B.C., the Capital Region District, and the City of Victoria have jointly provided $8.7m in funding to construct and install 576 Level 2 and 20 direct-current fast-charging ports for electric vehicles, spread out across 80 locations. The City of Victoria will manage 424 of the Level 2 ports, as well as the 20 direct-current fast-charging ports.

    vicnews.com

  • Soe Café, a new café and bar, has opened in Penticton. The café will include coffee and baked goods in the day, and transition to a wine bar at night.

    castanet.net

  • The Penticton Library and Museum will be closed from May 31 to July 3 to allow for electrical building upgrades.

    castanet.net

  • Neverland Tea Cottage in Naramata Village is remaining closed for the 2024 summer season following their usual winter break, due to challenges in retaining seasonal employees. The restaurant's sister location in Vancouver, the Neverland Tea Salon, remains open.

    castanet.net

  • The Peri Peri Shack, a barbecue chicken restaurant, is opening a new restaurant in New Westminster, in addition to their current locations in Burnaby and Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Oakberry, a Brazilian acai brand, is opening three restaurants in Metro Vancouver, including one in Vancouver, West Vancouver and Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Tofino-Long Beach Airport has received $271,700 from the BC Air Access Program to pay for a backup generator. The funding, which comes from the provincial government, is part of an $11M funding wave for 24 airports.

    westerlynews.ca

  • The Pie Hole, a pie speciality shop, reopened for business in Vancouver in April.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Canada Summer Jobs program is offering over 70,000 jobs for eligible youth and young adults in the not-for-profit, public, and private sectors. Available jobs are listed on the federal Job Bank website, and recruitment for the positions will take place up until July 22.

    dailyhive.com

  • Construction has begun on a new $135M alumina conveyor at Rio Tinto's Kitimat plant. The conveyor is expected to be operational by June 2025 and will transport 800,000 tonnes of raw alumina over its 50 year lifespan.

    mybulkleylakesnow.com

  • The Government of British Columbia is providing over $2M to 23 capital projects by non-profit organizations throughout the Lower Mainland and southwestern B.C. One of the projects includes $250,000 to improve accessibility and upgrade equipment at the Vancouver Maritime Museum. Another project includes $250,000 towards a larger training and storage facility for the Chilliwack Search and Rescue.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Ulchatko Energy Corporation, the energy management corporation of Ulchatko First Nation, has signed a 20 year purchase agreement with B.C. Hydro to sell energy created from their planned solar farm. The $30m project will receive $16m in provincial and federal funding and will reduce the community's reliance on diesel by approximately 3,300 tonnes of GHG emissions per year. Construction is slated to begin by August and be operational by October 2025.

    cbc.ca

  • The Government of British Columbia is providing $1.5M towards 15 capital projects by non-profit organizations throughout the Interior of the province. One of the projects includes $250,000 towards the North Okanagan Hospice Society to renovate nursing and staff service areas, upgrade security systems and offer more consultation rooms.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The provincial government is offering a new Nurses Student Tuition Grant for students at the Thompson Rivers University Williams Lake Campus. The grant will provide a $2000 credit per full year of full time studies in recognized Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing, or Practical Nursing programs. Indigenous students will receive an additional $5000 per year. Eligible students must have been enrolled in a recognized program between September 2023 and August 2026.

    mycariboonow.com

  • The Government of B.C. is providing $5M towards ten manufacturing projects on Vancouver Island. Ron Anderson & Sons Ltd., a Chemainus-based wood-product manufacturer, will receive $2M to diversify its products and create 35 full-time jobs. Aquila Cedar Products Ltd., a Parksville-based wood products manufacturer, is receiving $879K to buy new equipment and to retrofit its manufacturing site.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • According to a Global Consulting Alliance forest sector outlook, Canadian lumber output was down more than 20% for most of 2023 and even lower in British Columbia. The report also notes that through to November 2023, Canadian softwood lumber exports were down 12.35B board feet compared to the previous year, mostly due to declining output in British Columbia.

    castanet.net

  • Teal Jones Group, a B.C.-based forestry company, has filed for creditor protection to the B.C. Supreme Court. The company has significant operations across B.C. as well as several operations in the United States. As part of the restructuring plan, the company is proposing to sell one of its American mills as well as some forest land in Haida Gwaii.

    globalnews.ca

  • According to a recent report from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, the amount of wood pellets exported from British Columbia has doubled in the past 10 years. Most of these pellets are shipped to Japan to be used as a replacement fuel after the country shut down their nuclear reactors over a decade ago .

    www.biv.com
• Week of 2024-04-22 to 2024-04-26

  • Chicha San Chen, a Taiwanese-themed bubble tea shop, is opening in Vancouver in the summer.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of B.C. is providing close to $2.7M to municipalities and First Nations across the province to improve their emergency operations centres.

    energeticcity.ca

  • Located in Keremeos, B.C., Grist Mill and Gardens is looking to hire 10 students for the summer. The company is able to hire more students this year due to the funding they received from the Canada Summer Jobs and Young Canada Works programs.

    pentictonwesternnews.com

  • The Government of B.C. is providing $25M to Vitalus Nutrition to expand its milk production plant in Abbotsford. Construction is scheduled to begin this summer, and once complete, the facility’s processing capacity will be increased by 50% and support more than 3,000 indirect jobs. In addition, 100 new jobs will be created on site.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Harrop-Procter Community Cooperative has received $215K from the BC Manufacturing Job Fund for its community mill. The funds will be used to upgrade equipment at the mill and will create three new jobs.

    nelsonstar.com

  • The Government of British Columbia is committing $55.5M to plant 50 million trees in 2024. Natural Resources Canada is also contributing $19.5M to the efforts as part of the Forest Ministry’s reforestation program. More than 10 billion trees have been planted since the program began in 1930.

    campbellrivermirror.com

  • To address the challenges children and youth are experiencing in Princeton and Merritt, the B.C. government is expanding its Integrated Child and Youth (ICY) services. Mental-health, wellness and addictions services will be provided by counsellors, youth substance-use and mental-health clinicians, and Elders.

    castanet.net

  • BC Transit is introducing a pilot program, OnDemand Transit, in Kelowna’s Crawford neighborhood. Riders can use a smartphone app or call in to schedule a time for pick-up. The new on-demand service is expected to be more environmentally friendly, and if successful, will be expanded to other parts of the province.

    castanet.net

  • Fresh St. Market, a specialty grocery store, is set to open in North Vancouver this fall.

    dailyhive.com

  • Little Pisces, a dessert shop, is opening in Burnaby this spring.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Kelowna is reviewing a new six-storey rental housing development. The development includes 62 residential units and parking spaces for up to 69 vehicles.

    castanet.net

  • The B.C. government is providing $50,000 to support youth in New Westminster with services and supports from harm or trauma. The Safe Community Situation Tables work with organizations to keep communities safe and healthy.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Effective May 1, 2024, new regulations for short-term rentals come into effect. Due to housing shortages, the B.C. government is trying to limit housing from being rented through platforms like Airbnb when they could be used for long-term homes instead.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • A new childcare centre recently opened in Kamloops. The Twin Rivers Learning Centre is located at the former site of Happyvale Elementary school and offers 72 spaces for children up to age five.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing up to $300M for TransLink's 2024 Investment Plan to purchase new buses in Metro Vancouver. TransLink will also use the remaining funding from last year to increase services, such as extended hours for more than 60 routes and improve the availability of late-evening HandyDART services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government announced plans to build a new elementary school in Burnaby’s Brentwood neighbourhood. If approved, the new 800-student school will cost around $65M and open by September 2028.

    burnabynow.com

  • The Nechako-Kitamaat Development Fund Society Board has approved $153,721 in grants for six community projects. The funding will support upgrades at the Eagle Creek Fairgrounds, kayak rentals in Burns Lake, fuel storage systems, and seniors housing upgrades.

    burnslakelakesdistrictnews.com
• Week of 2024-04-15 to 2024-04-19

  • Tap & Barrel, has opened a 17,000 sq. ft. restaurant in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Goldie’s Donuts & Bakery has opened a bakery in West Vancouver. The Korean bakery features brioche donuts fermented for 24 hours.

    dailyhive.com

  • Ayoub’s Dried Fruits & Nuts is opening a new store in Surrey. This is the seventh location in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Taco Bell, a fast-food chain, is opening in downtown Vancouver. Taco Bell plans to open 200 restaurants in Canada over the next eight years.

    dailyhive.com

  • Ba Le Deli and Bakery, a Vietnamese café, is opening in Vancouver. The company started in 1987 and is opening the fourth location in B.C and third location in Metro Vancouver. The restaurant is hiring for a variety of full-time and part-time positions.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of British Columbia is expanding treatment for people living with addictions with the opening of 61 recovery beds in communities across the Interior, including Kelowna, Penticton, Lumby/Sorrento, and Vernon. All of the recovery beds will be administered by the Canadian Mental Health Association, and will be operated by organizations that are licensed or registered with the Province.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The provincial government is launching the Hospital at Home (HaH) program in several hospitals in Vancouver. As part of the program, eligible patients at Vancouver General Hospital, UBC Hospital, St. Paul’s Hospital and Mount Saint Joseph Hospital can choose to receive acute care in their own home rather than the hospital.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of British Columbia is providing $716,000 to expand the Progressive Intercultural Society's adult day program in Surrey. The program is designed to support South Asian seniors living at home with their caregivers to interact socially with peers, participate in stimulating activities, and receive assistance with daily activities. The expansion increases the program's capacity from 138 to 300 spaces per week.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The provincial government is opening 73 temporary spaces for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Chilliwack. Work is almost complete on 30 new shelter beds at Chilliwack Wellness Centre, which will be operated by Lookout Housing and Health Society, while 43 new modular housing units are expected to be avialable this fall.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • South Fraser Station Partners is building 8 stations for the Surrey-Langley SkyTrain stations. The extension adds 16km of track from King George Station in Surrey to downtown Langley. The $4.01B construction is expected to complete in late 2028.

    cbc.ca

  • Tap & Barrel, has opened a 17,000 sq. ft. restaurant in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Goldie’s Donuts & Bakery has opened a bakery in West Vancouver. The Korean bakery features brioche donuts fermented for 24 hours.

    dailyhive.com

  • Ayoub’s Dried Fruits & Nuts is opening a new store in Surrey. This is the seventh location in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Taco Bell, a fast-food chain, is opening in downtown Vancouver. Taco Bell plans to open 200 restaurants in Canada over the next eight years.

    dailyhive.com

  • Ba Le Deli and Bakery, a Vietnamese café, is opening in Vancouver. The company started in 1987 and is opening the fourth location in B.C and third location in Metro Vancouver. The restaurant is hiring for a variety of full-time and part-time positons.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of British Columbia has introduced new measures to streamline the process of recovering wildfire-damaged wood and regenerating damaged forests. The new measures will introduce pricing guidelines and offer more salvage opportunity agreements for forestry operations and First Nations.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Pacific Coastal Airlines is increasing the accessibility of the island and interiror, by offering inaugural flights between Comox and Kelowna. The service will run six days a week from Sunday to Friday, beginning June 25.

    prpeak.com

  • The Morrison Café + Kitchen is opening a restaurant in White Rock.

    dailyhive.com

  • Pacific Coastal Airlines is increasing the accessibility of the island and interiror, by offering inaugural flights between Comox and Kelowna. The service will run six days a week from Sunday to Friday, beginning June 25.

    prpeak.com

  • Peace River Regional District has awarded a 5-year, $2.6 million contract to Aquatech Canadian Water Services Ltd. to operate five potable water treatment and bulk loading stations in Rose Prairie, Feye Spring, Buick Creek, Boundary Lake, and Prespatou. Work is scheduled to begin on October 19th, 2024.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The municipality of North Cowichan has received $19,000 from the Government of British Columbia`s Active Transportation Grants to develop mixed pedestrian and cyclist paths along Sherman Road.

    cowichanvalleycitizen.com

  • The Metis Nation of B.C. is working with the City of Campbell River to acquire four properties on Dogwood Street to make space for the creation of 40 affordable housing units and a daycare facility. MNBC has committed to purchasing the properties, which currently sit empty, at fair market value.

    campbellrivermirror.com

  • Western Forest Products is indefinitely curtailing production at its Alberni Pacific Division facility, which had been curtailed since November 2022. The company says it will offer voluntary severance for the 60 remaining employees.

    albernivalleynews.com

  • The Government of British Columbia has announced a business plan for a new, $289 million cancer center at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. The new centre will offer an oncology network clinic, which will provide a range of cancer treatments and supportive care. Construction is expected to begin in 2025 and begin offering treatment by 2028.

    nanaimobulletin.com

  • The Government of British Columbia has updated the BC Building Code to expand the use of mass timber. Under the revised code, mass timber will be allowed in taller buildings as well as schools, libraries, and shopping centres. The provincial government hopes that these changes will support opportunities to develop housing projects faster and with less of a carbon footprint.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Morrison Café + Kitchen is opening a restaurant in White Rock.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of British Columbia is providing support to the forestry sector through the $180M BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund. The fund has committed $70.3M to 50 forest-sector transition and diversification projects, creating and sustaining more than 2,500 jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Kelowna Steel Fabricators is closing in April, after 51 years in business. The company has cited poor market conditions as reason for the closure, which will affect approximately a dozen employees.

    castanet.net

  • Penticton's farmer markets are returning for the season, and will take place every Saturday beginning May 18 until October 26.

    castanet.net
• Week of 2024-04-08 to 2024-04-12

  • The Government of British Columbia is providing $770,000 to open 24 new childcare spaces, and upgrade a kitchen and playground at West Coast Christian Fellowship in Vancouver.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The provincial government is continuing to provide the Everyone Rides Grade 4-5 program to provide safe-cycling education and awareness for children. The program's expansion to Chilliwack, Abbotsford, Powell River, and Campbell River, is expected to provide 15,000 students in 40 municipalities with bicycle safety training.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is expanding eligibility for the Strengthening Abilities and Journeys of Empowerment (SAJE) program, which provides financial, housing, educational, medical and cultural supports to people who are or were formerly in kinship care. The expanded eligibility is expected to provide support to 9,000 youth and young adults.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of British Columbia is providing $310,000 to over 60 organizations which promote inclusivity, anti-racism education and awareness, and cross-cultural engagement. Priority may be given to projects or organizations from racialized and marginalized communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The provincial government is providing $175M to rebuild Mission Senior Secondary school, increasing student capacity for a total of 1500 seats for students. The school is expected to be operation in time for the 2029 school year.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • BC-based General Fusion is partnering with the Canadian Nuclear Laboratories to advance the design of Lawson Machine 26, a pilot plant to provide electricity from clean nuclear fusion energy to the grid by the early to mid-2030s.

    generalfusion.com

  • According to the BC Northern Real Estate Board, real estate sales in Fort St. John are down in the first quarter of 2024. As of April 2024, sales have totalled $40.6M compared to 46.6M last year. Meanwhile, the number of properties listed for sale has increased, achieving 464 from 435 at the same time last year.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The Government of British Columbia has announced a new transit-oriented development is coming to the Uptown area of Saanich. The development will include hundreds of new homes, community amenities, retail and commercial spaces and a transit hub.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The board of governors of Vancouver Island University have announced the cancellation of four of the university’s academic programs. Two of the cancelled programs were its Geographic Information Systems (GIS) programs. These cuts come as the University is forecasted to have a $150K budget deficit for the coming year. Cuts to the university’s music programs are also being considered.

    www.biv.com

  • According to De Havilland Canada, the company’s North Saanich operation is expanding to support the company’s commitment to build parts for the DHC-515 firefighting aircraft. In recent months, the company has doubled its local employees to about 300.

    timescolonist.com

  • The Government of British Columbia is providing $1.2M for renovation work to repurpose the Elks Hall in Williams Lake to a 40-space year-round shelter for people experiencing homelessness. The provincial government is also providing $2M towards the annual operating fund through the Permanent Housing Plan. Occupancy of the shelter is expected to being in fall 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • North Pacific Kelp Wild Foods Inc., a food processing company located on Haida Gwaii, is applying freeze drying technologies to their sustainable seafood and agri-food products. These process upgrades are thanks in part to an over $20K Northern Industries Innovation Fund grant.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • Construction has begun on 35 new homes for Indigenous peoples in Port Alberni. The four-story wood-frame building at 4210 Cedarwood Street will feature affordable homes and is part of a $19 billion provincial investment In housing. The building will be owned and operated by Citaapi Mahtii Housing Society.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • BC Hydro has launched a request for new power generation across the province in order to meet historic electricity demand, which is projected to rise 15% by 2030. The request aims to facilitate the addition of 3,000 gigawatt hours or 5% of total generating capacity to its current supply. Development and construction resulting from the call will create an estimated $2.3-3.6 billion in private capital spending and between 800-1,500 jobs annually.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Cuboh, a Victoria-based restaurant solution system, has been acquired by Los Angeles based ChowNow for an undisclosed sum. The company’s services will be combined into ChowNow’s network, which provides an online restaurant ordering and marketing platform for their restaurant partners.

    techcouver.com

  • Tsq?éscen? First Nation has partnered with Alberta-based Sustainable Food Security to build two large greenhouses and establiush a food forest on the site of a former commercial farm. The greenhouses will provide 2000 square feet of growing space to boost food security by ensuring year-round food access to healthy, high-nutrition food.

    wltribune.com

  • The Central Coast Regional District will receive $2.3 million from B.C. to operate and eventually close the Thorsen Creek Waste and Recycling Centre, address any associated outstanding costs from the centre and optimize airspace for residents. The funding will relieve financial pressure on the local communities who operate the facility.

    coastmountainnews.com

  • Lake Babine Nation's Forestry Limited Partnership (LBN Forestry) has reached an agreement with West Fraser to merge local tenure volumes into a single First Nations Woodland Licence under the ownership of Lake Babine Nation. The agreement will align forestry practices with the Nation's stewardship priorities and foster economic growth for the community.

    ominecaexpress.com

  • The Cowichan area will receive more than $3 million from B.C.'s Community Emergency Preparedness Fund. The Town of Ladysmith will receive $2.75 million to decommission and repair the Hollan Creek weirs, the Cowichan Valley Regional District will receive $267,080 for risk-reduction policies and processes, and Cowichan Tribes will get $150,000 for mobile flood-control equipment. The funding will provide better protection during flooding and other extreme weather emergencies.

    cowichanvalleycitizen.com

  • Beachcombers Education Society has been awarded more than $2 million from ChildCareBC's New Spaces Fund to expand the Little Oysters Child Care. The funding will allow it to triple capacity, adding 36 new spots for childcare and 16 new spots for group multi-age care. The funding will also enable the expansion of the facility with work planned for full completion by September 2025.

    comoxvalleyrecord.com

  • Four projects in the Comox Valley have received a total of $1.7 million for active transportation infrastructure projects, with two in Courtenay, one in Comox, and one in the Comox Valley Regional District. The funding will support sidewalk, roadway, and multi-use pathway construction and upgrades to encourage safe and active transportation.

    comoxvalleyrecord.com

  • Chipotle Mexican Grill, a fast-food chain, is planning to open a new restaurant in Surrey.

    dailyhive.com

  • The 100 Mile District General Hospital temporary closed the emergency department between April 6 to 7. The closure was due to shortage a of nurses.

    castanetkamloops.net

  • A new Dynacare medical lab has opened in Vernon. The new facility has replaced the Valley Lab, and provides testing services including blood and urine collection and prenatal tests.

    castanet.net

  • Bylands Nursery has opened a new garden centre in Kelowna in April. The centre has flowers, plants, and gardening supplies.

    castanet.net

  • Chung Chun, a Korean hot-dog chain, is opening a restaurant in New Westminster in April.

    dailyhive.com

  • ChooWee Beverage and Cake Boutique, a dessert shop, is opening in Richmond in April.

    dailyhive.com

  • Triple O's, a fast-food chain, is opening in the Vancouver International Airport in Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops is developing a wildfire training program which will allow students to earn credit towards a degree while studying areas of wildfire science, community impacts of wildfires, and community adaptation, mitigation and prevention. Program development will begin this year, with delivery expected to begin in 2025.

    cbc.ca

  • Bike Co., a bike shop, has closed its shop in Whistler after 30 years in business.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Kelowna is providing $21M to upgrade Glenmore Recreation Park with a turf field, fitness area and other recreation improvements. Construction is expected to begin in the fall.

    castanet.net

  • Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) is recruiting for a Physical damage adjuster in B.C. The job requires conducting investigations, evaluations, negotiations, and settlements of automobile and third-party claims.

    dailyhive.com

  • Friends of Haven Thrift Shop is closing its store in Nanaimo due to a decline in business and customer safety concerns in response to a rise of violence and crime in the neighbourhood. The store has been open for over 19 years.

    globalnews.ca
• Week of 2024-04-01 to 2024-04-05

  • The Fred Randall Pool in Burnaby is temporarily closing for three weeks for annual maintenance in April 2024.

    burnabynow.com

  • The Government of B.C. is providing $11M through the BC Air Access Program to support 26 upgrades at two dozen airports throughout the province. This initiative will support regional airports in wildfire suppression, enhanced air-ambulance and emergency-response services, and tourism and economic-development.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The District of Vanderhoof is providing $43K to repair the Aquatic Centre's service stairs. The facility will repair the upper concrete landing and construct a new frost-protected footing and foundation. The project is scheduled to be completed before September 2024.

    ominecaexpress.com

  • The City of Kamloops is building a 36-space childcare centre for children of municipal employees. The facility has begun construction and is scheduled to open August 1, 2024.

    castanet.net

  • Sing Sing, a beer bar and restaurant, is opening a second location on Commercial Drive in Vancouver as part of a company-wide restructuring.

    vancouverisawesome.com

  • Gallery Vertigo is re-opening in North Okanagan after a brief closure. A grand opening will be held on April 11, 2024.

    castanet.net

  • The Government of B.C. partnered with two organizations to open a total of 56 new childcare spaces in Nanaimo. The province provided $1.5M to BGC Central Vancouver Island to create 40 spaces and $500K to the Nanaimo Innovation Academy Foundation to create 16 more.

    nanaimobulletin.com

  • Heirloom, a vegetarian restaurant in Vancouver, has recently closed after 12 years of operation.

    vancouverisawesome.com

  • Parkland Corp.'s Burnaby refinery, which produces approximately 25 per cent of Greater Vancouver's gasoline and 30 per cent of the jet fuel for the Vancouver International Airportt, has returned to normal operations after an unplanned shutdown in January 2024 due to extreme cold weather and maintenance.

    ctvnews.ca

  • Caspian Castle Food, a Persian cuisine eatery, is opening in downtown Vancouver.

    vancouverisawesome.com

  • The Oak Bay Police Board is looking to hire a new deputy chief. Applications will close by midnight April 18, 2024.

    timescolonist.com

  • Moon Café in East Vancouver has recently closed and The Madras Diaries, an Indian grill kitchen, will be opening in its place.

    vancouverisawesome.com

  • Dynacare Laboratory and Health Services Centre is opening in Vernon to offer labratory tests and other healthcare services . Meanwhile, The Valley Medical Laboratories will be closing on April 5th. The team will open the Dynacare centre on April 8th.

    vernonmorningstar.com

  • A second urgent and primary care centre (UPCC) is opening in Richmond. The centre will provide care for people with non-emergency concerns needing same-day care. Shellbridge Family Practice, a new family practice clinic, will also provide primary care services within the UPCC, connecting patients to primary care providers.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • First Steps Early Pregnancy Triage Clinic in Kamloops is expanding access to prenatal and postpartum care services. The facility is looking to employ a registered nurse, nurse practitioner, and medical office assistant.

    interiorhealth.ca

  • Ramen One has recently opened along West Broadway in Vancouver.

    vancouverisawesome.com

  • Prophecy, a new cocktail bar, is opening in downtown Vancouver in spring 2024.

    vancouverisawesome.com

  • The Brew Estate, India’s largest hospitality brand and microbrewery, is opening in Surrey. The restaurant will operate as a café during the day and a bar at night.

    dailyhive.com

  • Carl's Jr. has recently closed in Vancouver and Pho Quynh Express, a Vietnamese and Cambodian restaurant, will be opening a fourth location in its place.

    dailyhive.com

  • Pho Georgia, a restaurant serving Vietnamese and Cambodian cuisine, is opening in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Novella, a coffee and brunch spot in Vancouver, will be closing on April 7, 2024.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Maple Ridge is hosting a free workshop for local business owners and operators. The workshop is part of the BC Buy Local initiative and seeks to widen business connections throughout the community and provide tools to support local businesses.

    mapleridge.ca

  • Armstrong Regional Co-op has recently opened a third location in Kelowna.

    castanet.net

  • Food Republic, Vancouver’s first digital food hall, has recently closed. The impacted restaurants using the space include Rad Salad, OneSpot, Wow Bao, and Pacific Poke.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Victoria Pickleball Centre in Langford will be opening in early spring 2024. The facility will set up a cafe and pro shop, with lessons and leagues to come later.

    cheknews.ca

  • Metro Vancouver real estate activity is significantly down in both quantity and dollar volumes so far in 2024. Forecasts show that both will likely recover in the second or third quarter of the year. According to experts, scarcity of high-quality assets and a more consolidated buyer pool has led to the slow start of the year.

    www.biv.com

  • EA Sports is hiring for several positions in Vancouver, and is primarily recruiting individuals for work on the NHL, FC, and UFC franchises. The company is also hiring for some general video game-related tech jobs. The available positions include character and concept artists, software engineers, and producers.

    dailyhive.com

  • Grand View Szechuan Restaurant has announced that it is closing after 31 years in the community. The building will be taken over by Tasty Planet Indian Restaurant.

    dailyhive.com

  • Several hotels in Vancouver are hiring staff across a variety of roles which include food service, front desk agent, security, engineer, night auditor, and housekeeper. The hotels that are recruiting include Fairmont Pacific Rim, Rosewood Hotel Georgia, Shangri-La, Sutton Place and the Marriott.

    dailyhive.com

  • Shein, an online fashion retailer, is opening a 5,600 sq. ft. pop-up store in downtown Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Vancouver Island University is considering the cancellation of their Geographic Information Systems (GIS) program due to a projected financial deficit in the upcomig school year. The school's advanced diploma and master's in GIS are the third-largest program of its kind in Canada, and play a critical role in natural resource development, urban planning, emergency response and climate change.

    timescolonist.com

  • A total of 26 new affordable rental homes have been completed at Síyá? Place in Nicola Valley. The provincial government provided $5.9M for the project, while the Canada Mortage Housing Corporation provided $2.1M. The Upper Nicola Band Housing Society will operate the homes, and band members will begin moving into their new homes in April 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The provincial government is providing $1.4M to the BC Society of Transition Houses to expand and enhance the delivery of Violence is Preventable (VIP) programming to schools throughout the province. The new funding will get more counsellors into schools and enable the VIP program to reach more than 7,000 students and staff.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is working to improve dementia care with a new long-term care home in Kitimat. The home will provide 12 single-occupancy rooms for seniors with dementia. Construction is expected to begin in fall 2024 and complete in 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of British Columbia is expanding language services with a new online multi-language information hub to increase support for newcomers to settle into their new communities, practice their English and find work. The Province has more than quadrupled funding for newcomer services from $6 million to $25.6 million per year.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $4.58M to Sun Peaks Mountain Resort Municipality for the Sun Peaks Water Supply Line Project. The 4km pipeline will provide surface water to the municipal water treatment plant.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.8M to the Township of Spallumcheen for water infrastructure upgrades. The project is expected to increase the water supply and protect the community against water shortages and summer drought conditions.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The provincial government provided $10.7M towards Jennie Gaglardi Place, a new, affordable rental housing complex in Langley. The five-storey building provides 98 affordable rental homes, and will accept the first tenants in April 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is repairing the infrastructure at Coquihalla Canyon Park in Hope, which was damaged by severe weather. Construction is expected to begin in summer 2024 and complete in 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $640,000 to support and supplement site operation at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site in Stevenson.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2024-03-25 to 2024-03-29

  • The federal, provincial, and municipal governments are providing $13.3M to upgrade the wastewater infrastructure at Comox Valley. The project includes mechanical and electrical upgrades to pump stations and replacement of the sewer pipeline.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing 867 new affordable rental homes on Vancouver Island. The eight projects include homes in Nanaimo, Port Alberni, Saanich, and Victoria.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing 580 new affordable rental homes in the Interior and northern B.C. The 15 projects include homes in the Okanagan, Haida Gwaii and Vanderhoof.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing 580 new affordable rental homes in the Interior and northern B.C. The 15 projects include homes in the Okanagan, Haida Gwaii and Vanderhoof.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Start Here Penticton held a job fair on March 20, with over 50 employers hiring for hospitality, businesses, and governments. Employers hiring included City of Penticton, RCMP, WorkBC, Marriott, and The Penticton Indian Band.

    castanet.net

  • A&W, a fast-food chain, is opening Canada's first walk-up window in Victoria. The 1,400 sq. ft. location will offer late-night options.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Vernon has approved $1.4M towards the Official Community Plan and Transportation Action Plan.

    castanet.net

  • Crumbl Cookies is opening a cookie shop in Port Coquitlam soon.

    dailyhive.com

  • Nero Waffles is opening a third dessert shop in Vancouver in summer 2024.

    dailyhive.com

  • Chef Hung Taiwanese Beef Noodle has closed one of its Vancouver restaurants.

    dailyhive.com

  • 7-inch Waffle House is closing its dessert shop in Vancouver in March.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Prince Rupert Regional Hospital is facing a series of overnight closures due to staff shortages. The hospital relies on out-of-town doctors to help keep the emergency open. The B.C. government provides $30,000 in bonuses for nurses to stay in northern communities for over two years.

    cbc.ca

  • The B.C. government provided over $875,000 to Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to collaborate on supporting sustainable jobs, business opportunities and reducing pollution. YVR aims to operate with net-zero emissions by 2030.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $850,000 to pH7 Technologies for a pilot project to reduce emissions and water usage while extracting critical minerals. The method aims to sustainably process 5,000 kg of raw materials into 2,500 kg of extracted platinum group metals per year.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal, provincial, and municipal governments provided over $7M to the construction of a six-storey building in Chilliwack. The building includes 66 units and provides adults and seniors with low to moderate incomes with affordable housing.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial government has completed a new North Surrey Truck Parking Facility on Highway 17, providing commercial long-haul drivers a rest stop area. The facility includes parking for 106 commercial trucks, including washrooms with showers, sani-dump for drivers and 24-hour security.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $30M to add 500 public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the province. The program provides people and businesses the transition to low-carbon transportation.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments, and local partners are providing $98M to 14 drinking water and wastewater projects in B.C. Projects include new water treatment plants with ultraviolet disinfection systems, and new water supply lines and reservoirs.

    canada.ca

  • The federal, provincial, and municipal governments are providing $7.5M for a wastewater treatment plant in Smithers.

    princegeorgecitizen.com
• Week of 2024-03-18 to 2024-03-22

  • The Trail City Council recently awarded a $3M infrastructure contract to Marwest Industries. The project includes various site improvements, replacing utility services, and replacing and realigning the retaining wall. Work will begin in spring 2024 and in August 2024.

    trailtimes.ca

  • The Royal Jubilee Hospital has established a new Young Adult Mental Health Unit. The unit will provide specialized and age-appropriate care for youth experiencing acute mental health challenges.

    islandhealth.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $14M to seven Vancouver-based businesses and organizations. The funding will support the businesses in developing and marketing new technologies.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of B.C. is providing $354M over three years to improve home health services for seniors. The government is hiring 900 more health-care workers including nurses, social workers, home support workers, and physiotherapists and occupational therapists.

    timescolonist.com

  • The Canada Games Aquatic Centre in Kamloops has recently reopened after closing for a year due to ongoing repairs.

    castanetkamloops.net

  • The Canadian Food Innovation Network is providing $500K to six food-tech projects across Canada, one of which is based in B.C. The funding will support the B.C. tech startup in advancing automation and robotics within the food manufacturing sector.

    techcouver.com

  • Stong's Market has recently opened a new location in Squamish.

    squamishchief.com

  • St. Louis Bar & Grill in Port Coquitlam has recently closed.

    tricitynews.com

  • A new 37-space daycare facility is being constructed as part of a $2.9M renovation project in Port Moody. The construction will be completed by the end of August 2024.

    tricitynews.com

  • The We Wai Kai Nation recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new administration building on the Quinsam Reserve. Construction has begun and tenants are expected to move into the $27M commercial building in fall 2025 or early 2026.

    campbellrivermirror.com

  • B.C. farmers are receiving $70M from the provincial government to replant vineyards, farms, and orchards that were damaged due to extreme weather conditions. The government is also developing planting guidelines to ensure replanted varieties are more resilient.

    globalnews.ca

  • Northern Health has confirmed that an unspecified number of Prince Rupert physicians are leaving or retiring soon. The health authority advised that three new physicians will be coming before the end of 2024 in addition to ongoing recruitment efforts to fill vacancies.

    cbc.ca

  • The Government of B.C. has awarded the Phase I contract to redevelop the Belleville ferry terminal in Victoria to Willow Spring Construction Ltd. The province has set aside $303.9 million for the two-phase contract alongside a $41.6 million federal contribution. EllisDon Corporation, KL Belleville Terminal Partners, and Pomerleau Inc. have been shortlisted to complete the Phase II work.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The City of Abbotsford is providing $1.8M to five organizations through the federal Reaching Home program. The projects will take place in 2024 and 2025, supporting housing and services for vulnerable people.

    abbynews.com

  • On March 20, the Emergency department at the Prince Rupert Regional Hospital closed for the third night in a row. People requiring emergency health services have to travel two hours to Terrace. Northern Health stated that the closures were because of issues regarding physician coverage.

    globalnews.ca

  • The Government of B.C. has allocated a $291.9M budget to support multiple school maintenance projects throughout the province. The initiative will focus on upgrading school facilities, making them more energy efficient and climate resilient.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The Government of B.C. is providing $80M to assist farmers with drought preparations. The funds will be distributed through the agricultural water infrastructure program and will support farmers in managing, collecting, and storing water.

    vancouversun.com

  • The Brat Haus and Carnitas Don Jose recently opened in Vancouver's Gastown. The joint shop will offer both tacos and hot dogs.

    vancouverisawesome.com

  • SUCCESS and B.C. Emergency Health Services are hosting a "meet-the-employer" workshop in Richmond. The session will discuss career opportunities, prerequisites, and skill requirements within the emergency health field.

    richmond-news.com

  • The CowDog Brew Company has recently opened in East Vancouver.

    vancouverisawesome.com

  • The City of Victoria is providing $55K to support two arts organizations. The funding will help with wages, rent, and to establish a more publicly accessible community.

    timescolonist.com

  • The City of Langford underwent a reorganization and will be hiring eight new staff within the coming months. The city has also reclassified three existing positions and updated reporting structures.

    timescolonist.com

  • Bliss Bakery in Downtown Kelowna is closing.

    castanet.net

  • The Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District is setting up a new public transit system servicing Tofino, Ucluelet, and nearby First Nation communities. Bus services will begin in April 2024, providing seven round trips on weekdays and four round trips on weekends.

    timescolonist.com

  • The Arbor, a vegetarian restaurant located in Vancouver, is closing permanently.

    scoutmagazine.ca

  • The provincial and federal government are providing $35.5M to upgrade and widen the Highway 1-Colquitz River bridges in Victoria. Construction will begin in summer 2024 and conclude in fall 2024.

    www2.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal government is providing over $4.5M to the University of Northern British Columbia. The funding will support more than a dozen research projects addressing significant societal challenges such as ecosystem impacts and income inequality.

    unbc.ca

  • Island Health’s after-hours urgent-care clinic in Courtenay is extending its opening hours. The clinic has added more staff and will be operating 34 additional hours of clinic time per week.

    islandhealth.ca

  • Santo Taco is opening in Downtown Vancouver. The taco shop is operated by the same team as Mr Churro, which will be closing in April 2024.

    vancouverisawesome.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.6M to support two Delta-based businesses through the Business Scale-up and Productivity program. The funding will support the companies in expanding recycled plastic production and developing energy monitoring technology.

    canada.ca

  • Desert City Games, a gaming shop focused on tabletop and card games, has recently opened in Kamloops.

    okanaganedge.net

  • The Low Entropy Foundation is opening a second thrift store. The new store, located in Port Coquitlam, will hold its grand opening in April 2024.

    tricitynews.com

  • Dollar Dollar Superstore in Penticton is closing in April 2024.

    castanet.net
• Week of 2024-03-11 to 2024-03-15

  • The Government of B.C. has placed a temporary ban on mining and mineral exploration activities on Banks Island and a part of Vancouver Island as it works out amendments for the Mineral Tenure Act to protect First Nations rights. The decision comes after a B.C. Supreme Court decision ordering changes to the Act. The Association of Mining Exploration and McMillan LLP law firm are raising concerns over uncertainty surrounding the indefinite moratorium on existing activities.

    www.biv.com

  • The Government of B.C. is planning to build a new critical care tower with 200 beds at Surrey Memorial Hospital, with costs estimated in the range of $1.3 billion. Planning is underway, and funds have already been set aside as part of the provincial 10-year plan.

    www.biv.com

  • The City of Nanaimo has issued a development permit for a five storey, 31 micro-unit building in downtown. The building is being developed as a car-free rental.

    timescolonist.com

  • Salvation Army will close its store at 525 Johnson Street in Victoria, citing increased costs. The permanent closure of the store at 525 Johnson St., set for March 23, will not affect other programs run out of the building, including its 150-bed Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre, the organization said.

    timescolonist.com

  • The City of Trail has awarded a $360,000 contract to OPUS Consulting Group to replace the core computer and storage equipment for the city.

    trailtimes.ca

  • The City of Prince George has opened the spring intake for the myPG Community Grants, which provide between $2,500-$8,000 to non-profit organizations. The funds will support projects increasing community pride, health and wellness, social connections, arts and culutre, and equity and inclusion.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The Government of B.C. is working to pass Bill 8 to authorize the transfer of $60 million in funds to the new Gwaii Trust Society, which provides grants and financial support for local projects. The new funding will enable economic projects in Haida Gwaii which will create jobs for up to 5,000 people.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Telix Pharmaceuticals Ltd., an Australian company, has agreed to acquire ARTMS Inc., a Burnaby-based radioisotope company that spun off of TRIUMF. The deal is valued at roughly CAD$110 million, and Telix will acquire ARTMS' production facilities and clean rooms.

    yahoo.com

  • The Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society has received over $1.5 million for 120 newcomer women apprentices to receive training and secure employment in Red Seal trades. The funding comes as part of the federal Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy’s Women in the Skilled Trades Initiative.

    canada.ca

  • The Aboriginal Community Career Employment Services Society (ACCESS), located in Vancouver has received $21 million from Canada's Skills and Partnerships Fund. The money will go towards helping Indigenous peoples overcome barriers, build up skills in Red Seal trades, and seek meaningful employment opportunities.

    todayinbc.com

  • The Government of B.C. and the Government of Canada are collaborating to offer $300,000 this summer for veterinary student practice placements. The pilot program offers up to $6,000 per student working with livestock and food animals and who have completed their first year of studies in the relevant field.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The City of Prince Rupert has received $77 million from the federal Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund to replace aging water and sewage infrastructure and end boil water advisories. The overall project will cost around $200 million. The funding supplements the $65 million from the province of B.C. announced last year.

    thenorthernview.com

  • The Abbotsford Flea Market has permanently closed after 50 years in operation, citing continued impacts from COVID-19 including a loss of vendors and decreased traffic.

    abbynews.com

  • Kalesnikoff Lumber Co. is planning to construct a third mass timber facility in the Nelson-Castlegar corridor. The facility is planned to be complete by the end of 2024 and will create around 90 jobs. An exact location has not yet been announced.

    castlegarnews.com

  • The Point, a restaurant located on the University of British Columbia campus in Vancouver, is closing in April.

    dailyhive.com

  • BC Ferries is hiring for a variety of positions in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. Positions include ticket attendants, customer service attendants, and terminal services attendants.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing funding for HealthIM, a digital public-safety system for police officers in Port Moody. The tool is specifically designed to be used in responses to mental health and addiction crisis situations. HealthIM allows a responding officer to better understand the reason for a persons behaviour.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • BC Ferries is hiring for a variety of positions in the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island. Positions include ticket attendants, customer service attendants, and terminal services attendants.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2024-03-04 to 2024-03-08

  • Mary's on Davie, a diner and lounge, will be closing its restaurant in March. The restaurant was founded in 1979 as Hamburger Mary's, before it changed its name in 2018.

    dailyhive.com

  • B.C. Wildfire Service staff willl have access to mental health training programs administered by the B.C. Municipal Safety Association and First Responder Health. The programs will include training about how to manage daily stress and anxiety.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Body Shop Canada Ltd. is closing three stores in B.C., including White Rock, Vernon and Victoria. The Body Shop Canada Ltd. owes more than $3.3M to creditors and is closing 33 stores in Canada. The number of employees affected are not announced yet.

    cbc.ca

  • The Government of B.C. in partnership with the BC Nurses' Union have determined minimum nurse-to-patient ratios. The announcement is supported by $237 million to help retain current nurses and recruit new nurses. This model is the first of its kind in Canada.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada and the Government of B.C. have committed over $37 million in combined funding to support 14 projects constructing high speed internet infrastructure across the province. Recipients include the Nisga'a Lisims Government, Telus, Ktunaxa Nation (FlexiNET), CityWest Cable and Telephone Corp., and Kaslo infoNET Society. The projects will bring high speed internet to over 7,500 households, of which 1,320 are Indigenous.

    canada.ca

  • Ucluelet's BC Ambulance team is expanding with a potential new station coming to town. The community is looking to hire a 0.75 full-time employee equivalent and will acquire more housing to support crew members.

    westerlynews.ca

  • Wilson's Group of Companies has announced the return of the Tofino-Victoria bus route. The route, which has been cancelled in the past due to lack of ridership and increased cost, is set throughout the week.

    westerlynews.ca

  • KF Aerospace Kelowna, CAE, and StandardAero will supply parts to Boeing as part of a new $4.6 billion contract from the Canadian Armed Forces. The deal will see 14 P-8 Poseidon aircraft constructed for Canada and three for Germany. Boeing expects to spend some $2.5 billion in Western Canada with $920 million in B.C.

    www.biv.com

  • Swatch, a watchmaker, is opening a store in Vancouver. Swatch is taking over a former restaurant space that had been vacant since 2017, one of the longest commercial retail space vacancies on Robson Street in downtown Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Pizza Maru has a opened a pizza shop in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government and Douglas College are providing $292.5M to build student housing at Douglas College in New Westminster. The student residence is a 20-storey building and will include 368 student beds. Construction is expected to be complete by summer 2027.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Effective March 4, 2024, the B.C. government will follow new federal requirements and issue attestation letters to post-secondary institutions to allow international applicants to study in B.C. The province is expecting 50,000 study permits for 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Okanagan wineries have been severely affected by environmental impacts of January's servere cold and the summer wildfires in 2023. The federal government is providing $177M over three years to support wineries in Canada.

    castanet.net

  • Kerr Properties is proposing to build a six-storey apartment with 120-units. The plan also includes 134 parking spots and short-term bicycle spaces.

    castanet.net

  • The Body Shop Canada Ltd. is closing three stores in B.C., including White Rock, Vernon and Victoria. The Body Shop Canada Ltd. owes more than $3.3M to creditors and is closing 33 stores in Canada. The number of employees affected are not announced yet.

    cbc.ca

  • The Body Shop Canada Ltd. is closing three stores in B.C., including White Rock, Vernon and Victoria. The Body Shop Canada Ltd. owes more than $3.3M to creditors and is closing 33 stores in Canada. The number of employees affected are not announced yet.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2024-02-26 to 2024-03-01

  • The Town of Ladysmith has awarded a $1 million contract to Ecora Engineering and Resource Group to impliment upgrades to the Holland Lake Dam and plan for climate resiliency. The firm will also conduct an overdue dam safety review.

    nanaimobulletin.com

  • JX LNG, the Alberta-based subsidiary of Changchun Jixing New Energy Ltd., has proposed a new liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant that would send LNG in special ISO containers to Prince Rupert by rail for export to Asia. The proposal is now undergoing environmental assessment by B.C. and would not require a new pipeline, only an upgrade to the existing Enbridge Westcoast Pipeline.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The B.C. government has committed $250 million for the Northwest BC Resource Benefits Alliance, a coalition of 18 communities and three regional districts that aims to secure government funding for future resource developments in the region. The funding will be distributed over the next five years for planning and constructing essential infrastructure projects that would support new industrial development and workers.

    burnslakelakesdistrictnews.com

  • The Town of Qualicum Beach has awarded a $48,800 contract to Kimbo Design to redesign the town's website, improving user experience, streamlining content management, and enhacing information delivery and customer service.

    pqbnews.com

  • Malahat Nation and Energy Plug Corp. have partnered to build Canada's largest and first Indigenous-owned battery plant. The plant is expected to be completed in 2025 and create more than 100 jobs. Battery products will cater to both commercial and residential needs, and the strategic location in a Free Trade Zone will help the plant connect with Asia, the United States, and Latin America.

    cowichanvalleycitizen.com

  • We Wai Kai Council and Mosaic Forest Management have reached a two-year agreement to collaboratively plan and harvest timber in We Wai Kai territory. Harvesting services will be provided by Way Kay, a First Nation-owned company employing 14 We Wai Kai band members.

    campbellrivermirror.com

  • Western Forest Products has opened a new drying kiln at their Ladysmith sawmill on Vancouver Island which will increase capacity for value added products for mass timber use. The kiln has an annual capacity of around 70 million board feet and will produce higher value specialty products. The company plans to spend another $35 million for new drying kilns in other plants.

    westernforest.com

  • Western Forest Products has completed the $12M expansion for continuous drying of lumber for Saltair Sawmill in Ladysmith. Saltair Sawmill is the largest single-line sawmill on Vancouver Island.

    westernforest.com

  • Paradigm Building Solutions, a wood manufacturing company, expanded and acquired additional property in the Louis Creek Industrial Park in Barriere. The expansion supports 35 new jobs.

    quesnelobserver.com

  • Red Bull, a beverage company, is hiring for various positions in Vancouver. Positions including managers, warehouse workers, and sales associates.

    dailyhive.com

  • IKEA, a furniture company, held a job fair in Coquitlam in February. IKEA is recruiting for various positions including product recovery co-worker, carts co-worker, and kids ballroom co-worker.

    dailyhive.com

  • Otreat Brunch + Bistro has opened a restaurant in Langley.

    dailyhive.com

  • Bufala River District, an Italian-pizzeria, is opening a 3,300 sq. ft. restaurant in Vancouver in March.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Regional District of North Okanagan is providing $1M to the Greater Vernon Cultural Centre project. The next phase of the project includes pre-construction costs, geotechnical and environmental assessments.

    castanet.net

  • The City of Vernon is providing an additional $15M to the Active Living Centre, which costs $121M. The additional funding supports net-zero facility and accessibility. Construction is expected to start in summer and open by fall 2026.

    castanet.net

  • Effective June 1, 2024, the B.C. government is increasing the minimum wage to $17.40 per hour. The increase matches the 3.9% average rate of inflation in B.C. in 2023.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $2.5M in funding for Squamish-based Quantum Technology Corporation, for the development and increased production of green hydrogen technology. The funding is expected to support 20 new jobs in Squamish.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $12M for 15 projects in B.C. to support community-based projects addressing HIV and other sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections. Project locations include Prince George, Lower Mainland, Okanagan, and Vancouver Island.

    canada.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $3.49M over the next 3 years towards the Nature Trust of British Columbia project. The project is endorsed by UNESCO and protects coastal estuaries and ocean habitats to support salmon population for future generations.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2024-02-19 to 2024-02-23

  • Prince Rupert has issued a call for expressions of interest to repurpose a large industrial site on Watson Island. The site currently hosts a propane export terminal.

    westerninvestor.com

  • The Songhees Nation has received $20 million in funding from provincial and federal partners to build a 66-unit apartment building in Victoria. Units will be offered at below-market rate, with residents paying no more than 30% of their income. Construction is underway and the project is expected to be complete by early 2025.

    vicnews.com

  • Allied Universal, a security company subcontracted by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), has laid off 36 staff at Victoria International Airport after a complaint and probe of issues. The laid off staff included 27 screening officers and 9 managers.

    cbc.ca

  • Interfor Corporation has announced plans to reduce its lumber production in B.C. by 30 million board feet in the first quarter of 2024. The company cites the reduction is due to weak market conditions, low log inventory and weather changes impacting the log industry.

    woodbusiness.ca

  • Ascot Resources Ltd. has announced its Premier Gold mine near Stewart, B.C. is now 90% complete. It will be the first gold mine to open in B.C. in seven years, and has secured a $50 million deal to sell the metal to Sprott Resource Streaming and Royalty Corp.

    westerninvestor.com

  • Predator Ridge Resort held a hiring fair on February 24 in Vernon. The resort is hiring over 30 positions including front desk attendants, custodians, reservations attendants, pool maintenance workers, bartenders, hosts, cooks, foremans and operators.

    castanet.net

  • Cineplex is recruiting for several positions in Vancouver including food and beverage workers, and general managers.

    dailyhive.com

  • Allora! Pasta + Wine is closing its restaurant in White Rock in February.

    dailyhive.com

  • Lee's Donuts is opening a shop in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Tea Industries, B.C.'s first robot bubble tea shop is opening in Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of B.C. has provided funding through the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund to T'Souke Nation ($492,910), Pacheedaht First Nation ($149,961), and Malahat First Nation ($149,646). The funding supports innovative clean energy development, heat pump installation, and community engagement.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The City of Victoria, the City of Campbell River and the Town of Comox have received $33.5 million from the Government of Canada's Housing Accelerator Fund to build 900 homes within three years. In Campbell River, this funding will go towards the construction of 282 homes.

    vicnews.com

  • Vegas Donuts, a Vegas-inspired donut shop is opening in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Best Fortune, specializing in Chinese cuisine, has opened a restaurant in Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • The RCMP is recruiting for dispatchers in Kelowna. Part of the recruitment includes an opportunity to meet and talk with current dispatchers on February 28 and March 12.

    castanet.net

  • Patrick Kerr Holdings, a Langley developer, has requested rezoning and a development permit for the Mills Road Towns project in Kelowna. The project is an eight three-storey building and 55 townhomes.

    castanet.net

  • The Government of Canada is providing $2B to the Government of B.C. for BC Builds, an initiative that supports affordable housing. The funding supports 20 initial BC Builds sites and 10,000 homes in the next five years.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1.75M to the Fire Chiefs' Association of BC to support the creation of regional training hubs in Pemberton, Kootenays, Port McNeill, Powell River, and Vanderhoof. The training hubs will support firefighters with skills to keep communities safe.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of B.C. is providing $1.75M to the Fire Chiefs' Association of BC to support the creation of regional training hubs in Pemberton, Kootenays, Port McNeill, Powell River, and Vanderhoof. The training hubs will support firefighters with skills to keep communities safe.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of B.C. is providing $1.75M to the Fire Chiefs' Association of BC to support the creation of regional training hubs in Pemberton, Kootenays, Port McNeill, Powell River, and Vanderhoof. The training hubs will support firefighters with skills to keep communities safe.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of B.C. is providing $1.75M to the Fire Chiefs' Association of BC to support the creation of regional training hubs in Pemberton, Kootenays, Port McNeill, Powell River, and Vanderhoof. The training hubs will support firefighters with skills to keep communities safe.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of B.C. has provided funding through the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund to Uchucklesaht Tribe ($499,140) and Ahousaht First Nation ($50,000). The funding supports innovative clean energy development and community energy plans.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of B.C. is providing $500,000 to support community organizations that experienced or are at risk of hate-crimes. Funding provides up to $10,000 to help support repairs to facilities or increased security measures.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2024-02-12 to 2024-02-16

  • Owl Bus, a Lillooet-based bus company, ceased operations between Whistler and Kamloops on February 1. The service filled a need for intercity travel beyond Whistler on Highway 99, as BC Transit networks currently terminate at Pemberton.

    castanet.net

  • The Government of B.C. has launched the BC Builds initiative, committing $2 billion in low-cost financing and $950 for the overall program delivering more homes for middle-income people. The initiative supports projects on public and non-profit owned land, and while detailed estimates of units created through BC Builds are not available, 20 projects providing up to 4,000 units have been identified.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Verity Construction has broken ground on a 15-year, $1.2-billion project bringing 2,850 new homes and a beachfront business walk to Colwood, a city west of Victoria. With population jumping by 12.5% since 2016, several housing developments are currently underway in Colwood.

    timescolonist.com

  • The BC Winter Games have cancelled ski and snowboard mountain events after a lack of snowfall on Troll Mountain led to multiple sports organizations pulling out of the event. The majority of the games will be held in Quesnel, bringing participants from across the province.

    castanet.net

  • Humble Bean Coffee Company is opening in the West Kootenay Regional Airport, filling a restaurant space that has been vacant since the pandemic began. The airport has no other food or beverage services, and the new café will be open 9am to 1pm seven days a week.

    castlegarnews.com

  • B.C. based Vista Radio has acquired 21 radio stations across interior B.C. as part of BCE (Bell Media)'s divestment from the sector. Vista Radio has committed to not laying off the 80 staff currently working at the outlets. The sale is pending approval from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission, and may take up to one year.

    ctvnews.ca

  • Equity Metals has reported finding new mineral veins at its flagship silver mine (Silver Queen) south of Smithers. The exploration results will enable the mine to operate for longer and open new mines. Equity Metals has also used the opportunity to attract additional private investment.

    houston-today.com
• Week of 2024-02-05 to 2024-02-09

  • Glacier Media has sold the Prince George Citizen newspaper to former city councillor Cameron Stolz. The sale came amid closures of newspapers around the province.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • Atlantic Power has given notice that their Williams Lake power plant could shut down by mid-January 2025 unless the lack of available fibre is addressed. Approximately 28 direct and 100 indirect employees are at risk.

    wltribune.com

  • Artemis Gold's Blackwater Gold mine may offer new employment opportunities 165 km southwest of Prince George. Construction is well underway with 550 workers involved, and continual operations will require 300 full time workers. The mine is expected to have a 22-year lifetime and anticipates operations beginning summer 2024.

    .biv.com

  • B.C.'s Cryopeak LNG Solutions has merged with Alberta's Ferus Natural Gas Fuels to create a new liquified natural gas production and distribution company, Cryopeak Energy Solutions. As part of the merger, the company has also acquired an LNG plant in Dawson Creek owned by Campus Energy Partners.

    offshore-technology.com

  • The Government of B.C. has partnered with the Western Forestry Contractors' Association to provide a two-year pilot project training forestry workers on wildfire safety and mitigation. $900,000 in funding has been provided through the Canada-BC Workforce Development Agreement. This project will also include career materials for job seekers, small and medium sized employers, and a sector job board.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Burns Lake Food Market has opened on the corner of Third Avenue and Highway 16, a prominent location in the town of Burns Lake.

    burnslakelakesdistrictnews.com

  • The Tahltan Nation, located in northwestern B.C. has received $600,000 from the TD Ready Commitment program to train heavy equipment operators. The funding will allow people to receive support in attaining their drivers license and operator certificates, offering mentorship and practical on-the-job training.

    interior-news.com

  • A new contract with Waste Connections will integrate garbage collection for the entire South Okanagan, improving efficiency and sustainability. New equipment, including single compartment trucks will enable future transitions to food waste collection, which requires a new facility.

    pentictonwesternnews.com

  • Westjet has cancelled service between Penticton and Edmonton, leaving only its daily service between Penticton and Calgary. The news comes after Air Canada pulled out of Penticton Airport in January citing pilot shortages. A reason for the cancellation was not provided.

    pentictonwesternnews.com

  • Wine growers around B.C. have reported that the January cold snap has devastated vineyards. While replanting programs are underway, it will take three years to produce new crops and there may be layoffs in wineries in the meantime.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • Tolko Industries Ltd. has announced the temporary layoff of 60 employees at the Lakeview Lumber mill in Williams Lake, B.C. The move reduces the mill’s two shifts down to one 50-hour shift per week, with 80 million board feet of lumber removed from annual production.

    mynechakovalleynow.com

  • A 48-day strike by 70 PWTransit workers in the Comox Valley and Campbell River has ended after a tentative agreement was reached. Bus drivers, mechanics, cleaners, support staff, and others will return to work.

    cbc.ca

  • A 72-hour strike by Coast Mountain Bus Company (operating in the lower mainland) transit supervisors was averted after a deal was reached through mediation. Details of the agreement have not been made public.

    cbc.ca

  • Grouse Mountain, Mount Seymour, and Cypress Mountain have closed due to inclement warm and rainy weather preventing the necessary snow levels from forming.

    .biv.com

  • Strike action at Rogers Sugar's Vancouver refinery has ended after workers voted 94% in favour of a five-year agreement. The key issue was focused on proposed 12-hour shifts. Details of the agreement have not been made public.

    cbc.ca

  • The City of Kamloops has approved zoning changes surrounding Kamloops Airport to enable a large range of development. New sub zones created include retail and visitor-focused business areas in front of the airport, commercial and light industry zones, and airside commercial zones.

    castanet.net
• Week of 2024-01-29 to 2024-02-02

  • Three companies in B.C. will receive up to $500,000 in funding from the Canadian Food Innovation Network to test their innovations in pilot projects. The recipients are Vancouver-based CanDry Technologies, Maia Farms in North Vancouver, and UBC's Renaissance Bioscience.

    bcbusiness.ca

  • Ho Yuen Cafe Vancouver, serving Hong Kong cuisine, has opened a restaurant in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Sushi Masuda, a Japanese restaurant specializing in omakase, is opening in Vancouver in February.

    dailyhive.com

  • Upscale fashion retailer Club Monaco has closed their flagship Vancouver store on Robson Street after more than 20 years.

    dailyhive.com

  • Surrey-based EXO Construction has been awarded the contract from Sooke school district to construct prefabricated classroom spaces for students. The district received $24 million in provincial funding to address the over 40% growth in student population over the last 15 years.

    timescolonist.com

  • PWTransit Canada and Unifor Local 114 have reached a tentative agreement after a one month strike and job action by bus drivers and mechanics. The dispute centered around pay rates compared to counterparts in Cowichan Valley, Whistler, and the Fraser Valley.

    cheknews.ca

  • The Columbia Basin Trust has awarded nearly $1.8 million to 10 communities to increase wildfire resilience. These projects include hiring part-time or full-time FireSmart Coordinators, forest fuel management, and ecosystem restoration.

    thenelsondaily.com

  • Nelson Police Department has requested funding to hire 4 full time officers over the next three years to meet operational requirements.

    thenelsondaily.com

  • The Regional District of Central Kootenay has chosen Building Energy Soluitions Ltd. to complete a $300,000 study on greenhouse gas emissions reductions. This study will examine and identify a roadmap to reduce emisssions across the district, informing capital plans for 2025.

    arrowlakesnews.com

  • Cowichan Valley's only movie theatre will be reopened under new management after closing in December.

    cheknews.ca

  • Island Health, Selkirk College, and Vancouver Island University are creating a 15 month hybrid program training students to be pharmacy technicians. This program will help more students work locally with online instruction, meeting growing demand for pharmacy technicians. Applications are now open for classes beginning August 2024

    islandhealth.ca

  • The Snuneymuxw First Nation and the Government of Canada have signed an interim agreement to allocate 80.09 hectares of land for the reserve of the First Nation. Snuneymuxw Chief and Council plan to develop these lands into on-reserve housing, economic development, and sustainable forestry projects.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of B.C. is investing $32 million to advance nuclear medicine with a new facility for advanced medical isotopes. $21 million will be awarded to BC Cancer for the new facility while $11 million will be used by TRIUMF to advance research. Construction is expected to be complete by 2025 with licensing and operations ready by 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Port Alberni-based Coulson Aviation has begun offering no-cost Aircraft Maintenance Engineer - Structures (AME-S) training after receiving Approved Training Organization certification. The certification makes Coulson the first aviation company in Canada to provide this training in aircraft structures.

    coulsonaviationusa.com

  • Vancouver-based design firm Dialog has been awarded the contract to refresh Centennial Square in Victoria. City council has approved $750,000 for consulting and design fees and construction is tentatively planned for next year.

    timescolonist.com

  • The St. Andrews Lodge in Qualicum Beach received $211,000 from the Arts and Heritage Legacy Fund for seismic upgrades. This historical facility drives regional tourism and will be integrated into the surrounding seaside park.

    nanaimonewsnow.com

  • Four Points by Sheraton has completed adding 55 new rooms to their hotel near the Kelowna International Airport.

    castanet.net

  • Due to issues with the processing unit, Parkland Corp. has temporarily shut down its processing operations in Burnaby. Parkland expects normal operations to resume in 4 weeks.

    reuters.com

  • Paper Excellence, a B.C.-based pulp and paper manufacturer, is curtailing the paper operations at the Crofton pulp mill indefinitely. Around 75 employees from the Crofton mill will be affected. Paper Excellence attributes the curtailment to market dynamics, inflationary pressures on raw materials, energy cost opportunities, and a lack of local domestic fibre supply.

    paperexcellence.com

  • Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is hiring 50 roles in Richmond. Positions include baggage and gate scheduler, IT technician, airport operations dispatcher, and program specialist.

    dailyhive.com

  • Canucks Sports & Entertainment is hiring for over 20 positions for games and concerts at the Rogers Arena in Vancouver. Positions include VIP attendants, supervisors, ticket representatives, dispatch operators, event security, and retail sales associate.

    dailyhive.com

  • PriceSmart Foods, part of the Pattison Food Group, has opened a new supermarket in Burnaby.

    tricitynews.com

  • Meiga, an Asian supermarket, is opening in February in Port Moody. This is the first Asian supermarket in the city, and the second full-service grocery store in the city.

    tricitynews.com

  • Oyo Korean Noodles has opened a new restaurant in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government has adopted a new firefighter hiring and recruitment strategy. The hiring process has already over 1,000 applicants and 500 interviews completed. BC Wildfire Service is accepting applicants until the end of March 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is seeking new non-profit operators to operate two housing properties, Hutchinson Rooms, and The Hazelwood in Vancouver. The operational transition of the two buildings is expected by June 1, 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $250,000 to support locally manufactured wood products and suppliers. The funding, provided by the Ministry of Forests is meant to promote the province’s wood manufacturing sector in global markets.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The City of Kelowna has approved a new six-storey Sutton Place Hotel, restaurant, and 1,000 additional parking spots at the Kelowna International airport. The hotel will include 245 rooms. Construction of the hotel is expected to start in 2025.

    castanet.net

  • Olivier's Bakery, specializing in French baked goods, is opening a bakery in Vancouver in March.

    dailyhive.com

  • Secret Garden Korean Fusion Buffet & Grill, has opened a new buffet restaurant in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2024-01-22 to 2024-01-26

  • McLeod Lake Indian Band and Defense Metals of Vancouver have partnered to create a rare earth elements mine for neodymium and praseodium north of Prince George, the first of its kind in Canada. Defense Metals estimates that construction would create 400 jobs and operations would require 200 full-time employees. The companies are hoping to begin construction in 4-6 years at a cost of USD $300M.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The City of Kelowna has approved the creation of new Canco gas station. The station will include two electric vehicle charging stations, 11 vehicle stalls and three bike stalls.

    castanet.net

  • West Fraser Timber, a Vancouver-based company, is permanently curtailing the Fraser Lake sawmill as it is unable to access viable fibre in the region. The closure will affect 175 employees and reduce the company`s Canadian lumber capacity by 160 million board feet.

    cbc.ca

  • Victoria's Secret, a women's clothing store, has closed its 35,000 sq. ft. Vancouver flagship store in January.

    dailyhive.com

  • White Spot is closing its restaurant in West Vancouver in mid-March. The restaurant is closing after operating for 60 years.

    dailyhive.com

  • La Foret Bakery & Café, is planning to open a café in Coquitlam in spring 2024.

    dailyhive.com

  • Mr. Sushi, a Japanese restaurant, has opened in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Jollibee, a fast-food chain, is opening a store in Surrey in January. This will be the fourth location in B.C.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Central Okanagan Food Bank has raised over $446,000 from a fundraiser to support the community's food security.

    castanet.net

  • The B.C. government is providing $580,000 for 22 local projects to support cultural safety for Indigenous people during emergencies in B.C. The funding supports training and programs for emergency management staff, volunteers, and emergency responder partners.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Graduate research assistants at the University of Victoria are organizing to unionize through CUPE local 4163, which represents teaching, residence, and other staff at the university.

    cupe.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $41M to construct a new francophone school in Burnaby. The school includes 360 seats and a learning centre for childcare and community use.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $21.2M towards the new six-storey building, which provides 100 affordable rental homes in Surrey. The homes support low- and moderate-income families with housing, programs, and community services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $51M to B.C. municipalities, regional districts, and local governments to support the new legislation, which supports housing demand. The new legislation aims to create more housing, including transit-oriented developments, and small-scale and multi-unit housing in B.C.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is funding a tuition-free Early Childhood Educator program at the Sprott Shaw College in Penticton. The ECE program runs between February 26, 2024 to January 24, 2025 and includes a practicum placement.

    castanet.net

  • The Government of Canada is providing $12.4M to 34 organizations to support gender equality and diversity for women, men, and 2SLGBTQI+ communities in B.C. The funding will support inclusivity through addressing gender-based violence.

    canada.ca

  • Quebec-based Osisko Development Corp. is developing two gold mining sites in Wells, 181 km southeast of Prince George. Having cleared the environmental assessment stage, the company is working to obtain the final permits by June. Construction is estimated to take four years and employ over 500 workers, while mining operations will last twelve years and employ 500 employees.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The North Coast Regional District is providing grants for businesses to improve their commercial building facades and support economic development. These one-time grants will cover up to 50% of costs up to a maximum of $5000 per project or building. The funding comes through the Northern Development Initiative Trust's Business Facade Improvement program. Applications are due September 30, 2024.

    ncrdbc.com

  • BC Transit has awarded a five-year contract for the West Kootenay Transit System to PWTransit. All unionized employees with the existing operator NextGen Transit will be offered similar roles with PW Transit. PWTransit will begin service on April 1, 2024.

    bctransit.com

  • The Government of B.C. is contributing $8.6 million through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund to fund eight companies` capital projects in wood-product and fabricated-metal manufacturing. The funding will support diversification and growth with new production lines, equipment, and technology to sustain operations.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2024-01-15 to 2024-01-19

  • Transit workers under CUPE local 455 have started a job action with an overtime ban January 6. Discussions between the union and Coast Mountain Bus Company, a subsidiary of Translink, broke down earlier this week. The union includes 180 transit supervisors.

    cbc.ca

  • The B.C. government provided $70,000 to the 64th annual Vernon Winter Carnival. The 10-day carnival consists of 145 events between February 2 to 11.

    castanet.net

  • IKEA, a Swedish home goods retail chain, is hiring for various positions including part-time self-serve workers in Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Malahat First Nation is building a 100,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility for battery storage systems on the Saanich Inlet. The plant is expected to create 100 jobs at the facility and produce 10-gigawatt hours of storage capacity annually.

    timescolonist.com

  • In spring 2024, the B.C. government is conducting aerial-spray treatments in Langley and Tsawwassen to eradicate spongy moths and minimize the risks that they pose to forests, farms, orchards, and trees.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • In spring 2024, the B.C. government is conducting aerial-spray treatments in Cranbrook to eradicate spongy moths and minimize the risks that they pose to forests, farms, orchards, and trees.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • In spring 2024, the B.C. government is conducting aerial-spray treatments in Kamloops and West Kelowna to eradicate spongy moths and minimize the risks that they pose to forests, farms, orchards, and trees.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • In spring 2024, the B.C. government is conducting aerial-spray treatments on Vancouver Island and Salt Spring Island to eradicate spongy moths and minimize the risks that they pose to forests, farms, orchards, and trees.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is supporting Chilliwack-based Teralta Hydrogen Solutions in a proposed hydrogen project, creating sustainable jobs and supporting Prince George as a hub for hydrogen investment. The clean energy project supports sustainable jobs and reduces emissions by 40%.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $36B over 10 years to BC Hydro to support community and regional infrastructure projects that provide clean and affordable electricity. The new construction projects are expected to support 10,500 to 12,500 jobs annually.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing over $5M to support resilient forestry through emergency management and land stewardship in B.C. The funding supports strategy, planning, risk-assessment, and emergency preparedness.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • RCMP is hiring for various positions including Administrative Assistants in various locations in B.C.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is expanding five new Indigenous Justice Centres (IJCs) in Vancouver, Victoria, Nanaimo, Surrey, and Kelowna. In the last 12 months, lawyers, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and outreach workers have been hired to support the Indigenous community. The plan is to increase to 15 IJCs in B.C. by the end of 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $6.2M in funding to support 122 local projects and benefit more than 200 volunteer and composite fire departments. The funding supports additional equipment, training, and resources to keep the communities safe.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has transferred 212 hectares of land on Te'tuxwtun (Mount Benson East) near Nanaimo to the Snuneymuxw First Nation. The land transfer is a step in the reconciliation process that will create economic activity in forestry and protect the wildlife habitat and environment.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Toys 'R' Us, a toy store chain, closed its Coquitlam store in January.

    tricitynews.com
• Week of 2024-01-08 to 2024-01-12

  • The City of Kelowna is assessing a proposal to develop a former motel into a six-storey mixed-used condo complex with 71 units and commercial space.

    castanet.net

  • Meréon, a French cuisine establishment, is opening a restaurant in West Vancouver in early 2024.

    dailyhive.com

  • Merci Boulangerie, is opening a bakery in Vancouver in early 2024.

    dailyhive.com

  • % Arabica, a Japanese coffee chain, is opening a store in Whistler.

    dailyhive.com

  • Paris Baguette, a bakery chain, is opening a bakery in Vancouver. The chain has over 4,000 locations worldwide.

    dailyhive.com

  • Sweet 7, a beverage chain, has opened a new store in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Black Casket Café, a café with a spooky theme, has opened in Abbotsford.

    dailyhive.com

  • 47% of Northern BC contractors are expecting an increase of work opportunities this year, along with construction recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain issues and inflation. Over 80% of contractors are in demand for more workers and have open job vacancies.

    mynechakovalleynow.com

  • The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary is providing over $366,000 to Greater Trail groups to support non-profit organizations with community projects. Applications for grants are available until February 29, 2024.

    nelsonstar.com

  • The North East Native Advancing Society's YES- Youth and Elders Sharing program in Fort St. John helps elders connect with family and friends through social media, storytelling, and gardening. The program helps elders reduces risk of self-isolation effects.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • The Northern Rockies Seniors Society and Fort Nelson Family Development Society have expanded transportation services with two busses running 5 days a week to serve the community in Fort Nelson.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • Troika Management and Sussex Retirement Living are proposing a 175-apartment unit for seniors in Kelowna. The apartment provides accessibility to parks, amenities, golf, transit, and shopping for seniors. The proposal will be reviewed by the city later this year.

    castanet.net

  • The B.C. government is providing $2M to the Buy BC program to aid consumers to support local B.C. farms, producers, processors and businesses. The program is assisting businesses with marketing through the Buy BC logo on products, which helps consumers identify local B.C. products.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Effective January 29, 2024, the B.C. government is providing a self-screening program to help women detect cervical cancer sooner. B.C. will be the first jurisdiction in Canada to offer the new accessible self-screening.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Myra Falls Mine Ltd. placed their Myra Falls mine near Campbell River, B.C. on indefinite care and maintenance on December 18, 2023. The company cited increased operating costs and depressed metal prices as the reason for the closure. Approximately 276 employees were laid off.

    newswire.ca

  • The federal government is providing $4.45M to the Abbotsford Recreation Centre to improve energy efficiency and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. The project includes upgrading the HVAC system to improve air quality and accessibility in the facility.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is contributing $5M to provide a new 48-unit apartment building to seniors and people living with disabilities in Port Alberni. The project is supported by an annual operating fund of $300,000.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1.5M until 2027 to provide more than 30 safe access homes in Duncan to people experiencing homelessness. The Village is a temporary supportive housing site that provides accommodation, meals, health, and wellness supports.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-12-18 to 2024-01-05

  • The B.C. government is providing $425,000 to Franklin Forest Products Ltd. in Port Alberni to upgrade equipment to process old-growth logs with a broader range of log sizes and grades.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.4M to Nanaimo-based VMAC Global Technology Inc. to grow its operations by establishing a new 5,000 sq.ft. manufacturing facility.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $4M to purchase and renovate off-reserve housing in Masset to provide safe and affordable housing to First Nation elders, seniors and workers. Renvoations are expected to be complete in late 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Effective January 1, 2024, new rules to the Worker's Compensation Act will support workers who have suffered a work injury to return to their previous jobs or other suitable work. The employer is expected to accommodate the injured person to return-to-work.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $10.3M to the Town of Princeton to provide 80 childcare spaces and upgrade 42 existing spaces. Construction and renovation timeframes have not been announced.

    vernonmorningstar.com

  • TransLink, Metro Vancouver's regional public transit authority is adding a new express bus service for Surrey and Delta. The new R6 route is expected to provide faster service for commuters and allow 20% more people to use transit daily.

    cbc.ca

  • The B.C. government provided $47,600 to the Queensborough Community Centre in New Westminster to upgrade furnishings and equipment. The child care centre offers 24 licensed spaces for school-age children near an elementary school.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is constructing a new transitional and second-stage housing development with 47 safe spaces for women and children leaving violence in Nanaimo. Haven Society, will operate the building and provide programs to support residents. Construction is expected to complete by fall 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • BC Housing has selected non-profit operators for two temporary housing projects in Kelowna. The project is expected to provide 120 supportive homes for people experiencing homelessness. The homes are expected to be complete in Feburary and March 2024. The non-profit organizations will support services including 24/7 staffing, meals, and skills training.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Effective January 1, 2024, the B.C. government has increased the minimum rates by 6.9% for farmers on hand harvesting for specific farm crops. The increase is based on B.C.'s 2022 average annual inflation rate.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Mogador Restaurant, specializing in Mediterranean cuisine, has opened in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Meiga Supermarket, an Asian grocery store is opening in Port Moody in 2024.

    dailyhive.com

  • Real Fruit Bubble Tea, a beverage chain, has opened a shop in Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • Daruma Japanese Market has opened a 3,000 sq. ft. store in Tsawwassen Mills Mall. The store will be their largest location in B.C.

    dailyhive.com

  • Chick Asta Bar has opened a restaurant in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Hungry Zus, a Mediterranean cuisine restaurant, is opening a fast-food location in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Meréon, specializing in brunch, is opening a restaurant in West Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Louis Vuitton has opened Canada's largest boutique store in downtown Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $117,320 to BioFlame Briquettes in Chemainus to buy and commission a hammermill and briquette press that will increase fibre diversity and production at the facility. This process supports removing logging waste directly from the forest, reducing wildfire risk and decreasing risk of fibre uncertainty. The funding also supports four new jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $86M for 58 projects under the B.C. Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund. The funds protect salmon populations, restore ecosystems, and aim to provide sustainable and prosperous fisheries.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2023-12-11 to 2023-12-15

  • The federal and provincial governments and BC Transit are providing $91.3M to better connect four communities in B.C. including Kelowna, Langford, Victoria and Saanich. The funding supports three new enhanced transit exchanges in Kelowna and upgrades the centres in Victoria and Langford for a new training centre.

    canada.ca

  • Tolko Industries Ltd., a Vernon-based lumber company, will be temporarily curtailing the Lavington lumber mill from December 4 for an extended period due to a transformer malfunction. The mill production will impact approximately 115 employees and the outage is expected to last approximately one month. Shipping and log yard activities are not impacted.

    castanet.net

  • Paratha 2 Pasta, an Indian and Italian cuisine, is opening a second location in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Mister Artisan Ice Cream is planning on opening a new shop in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • BeaverTails has opened a brick-and-mortar shop in Whistler.

    dailyhive.com

  • Maxim’s Bakery, a Chinese bakery, is opening in Lansdowne mall in Richmond. Maxim's is hiring for a variety of full-time positions.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of New Westminster is hiring for several high-level jobs including Chief Librarian, Corporate Officer, Mechanic, Planning Technician, and Human Resources Business Partner.

    dailyhive.com

  • Activate Penticton, a non-profit organization, has opened the outdoor skating rink for the winter season.

    castanet.net

  • The federal, provincial, and local governments are providing $1.04M to provide five new buses to the BC Transit's Kelowna fleet.

    castanet.net

  • The B.C. government is proposing changes to the mass timber building code to deliver more homes near transit hubs and more sustainable housing options. The proposed changes allow taller mass timber buildings, up to 18 storeys for residential and office buildings, instead of the current 12-storey limit. The changes are expected to come into effect in spring 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • B.C. forest sector representatives are on a mission to Japan to showcase B.C. wood products from December 10 to 15. The group includes BC Ministry of Forests representatives, First Nation delegates, and forest-company representatives, promoting B.C. products as more sustainable and internationally competitive.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $1.2M to YMCA Metro Vancouver to deliver a program to support 40 people including immigrant women to learn new skills and become early childhood educators in the Lower Mainland and in Greater Victoria. The program provides participants with skills training and on-the-job work experience.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $1.2M to YMCA Metro Vancouver to deliver a program to support 40 people including immigrant women to learn new skills and become early childhood educators in the Lower Mainland and in Greater Victoria. The program provides participants with skills training and on-the-job work experience.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments and BC Transit are providing $91.3M to better connect four communities in B.C. including Kelowna, Langford, Victoria and Saanich. The funding supports three new enhanced transit exchanges in Kelowna and upgrades the centres in Victoria and Langford for a new training centre.

    canada.ca

  • The federal government, City of Vancouver and TransLink are providing $26.6M to extend the life of trolley overhead infrastructure by 30-60 years. The funding supports building, expansion, and upgrading of the transit network.

    canada.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $15M in skills training and employment for young adults. The program is expected to provide over 3,000 people ages 16 and 29 with new skills over the next two years.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing a new Youth emergency shelter in Maple Ridge to support youth in crisis or at risk of harm or homelessness. The shelter provides 24/7 overnight accommodation service, outreach, and day-programming resources for youth.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The District of Houston is setting aside $250K towards their project to create a fire break in the Buck Flats Road area. Funding for the firebreak comes from the sale of lumber from lands logged during construction.

    houston-today.com

  • TC Energy has announced that the Coastal Gaslink pipeline will begin its next phase in 2024. Work will focus across 140 km in the Peace region on cleanup, re-vegetation, reclamation and removal of workforce accommodation structures. The project has created 25,700 jobs and $3.95 billion in spending towards local businesses to date.

    energeticcity.ca

  • Quesnel City Council has approved the first reading to extend the Multi-Unit Housing Incentive Bylaw. The program aims to incentivize local developers to build multi-unit housing projects via tax exemptions on new improvements.

    mycariboonow.com

  • The North Peace Cultural Society, located in Fort St. John will receive a three year grant for $72K from the Vancouver Foundation and an $8K grant from the BC Touring Council as part of their COVID relief funding. Regular shows are being well attended by the community following the impact of COVID-19, and they plan to hold a provincial festival next June.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The Cowichan Performing Arts Centre and Cowichan Community Centre have completed renovations funded by the Canada Infrastructure Program. Improvements included adding accessible washrooms in the 3rd floor lobby and a new lounge area to increase walking space.

    cowichanvalleycitizen.com

  • Hudson Bay Mountain is has opened for the ski and snowboard season. The scheduled opening of Dec 2nd was delayed due to a lack of snow.

    mybulkleylakesnow.com
• Week of 2023-12-04 to 2023-12-08

  • Dovetail, featuring California cuisine, has opened a restaurant in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • La Saison de Patisserie has opened in Vancouver. The café specializes in matcha-flavoured baked goods and chocolates.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is amending lumber regulations to expand manufacturing requirements for the export of cedar and cypress lumber. The changes will come into effect on February 1, 2024, and will require mills in the Interior to fully manufacture cedar and cypress wood that has been harvested.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The City of Coquitlam and the City of Port Coquitlam are both hiring a variety of jobs including recreational instructor, utility operator, facilities worker, and horticulture technician.

    dailyhive.com

  • The federal government has provided $3M to the Kelowna Fire Department's new 911 dispatch system, which allows voice, text and video service. The system will be implemented by March 2025.

    castanet.net

  • The Cowichan Bay Improvement District has begun construction of a new fire hall. The project has a budget of $14.6M and is planned to be completed in 2025. The new hall will be designed to withstand significant seismic events, and will be sized to serve the area for a minimum of 50 years.

    cowichanvalleycitizen.com

  • The B.C. government is funding 19 new projects through the Forest Enhancement Society of BC, including a wildfire fuel break, low-value log transportation, and shipping fibre to a bioenergy facility. The new projects include Fort St. James, Merritt and Anaham.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • School District 57 in Prince Geroge is facing difficulties in retaining teachers and support staff. Despite actively recruiting, the school district has had over 65 resignations since June.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The Forest Enhancement Society of BC is providing $1.8M in funding to Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd. to create a wildfire fuel break in the communities of Anaham and Alexis creek. Similar past projects have employed people in remote communities, and helped sustain local secondary manufacturing plants and pulp mills.

    mycariboonow.com

  • Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation has received a $1M donation towards the expansion of their Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, which includes adding additional beds, creating family spaces, a patio for families to access fresh air, and dedicated twin spaces to enhance care provided to newborns.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The Coastal GasLink pipeline that stretches across Northern BC is mechanically complete ahead of schedule. Planning for the pipeline began a decade ago but the project had been delayed by protests.The pipeline cost increased to $14.5B from $6.2B according to a statement released by TC Energy earlier this year.

    thenorthernview.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $65,000 to Big White Ski Resort in Kelowna to provide a mountain bus service from December 16 until the end of the ski season.

    castanet.net

  • Urban Options Planning Corp. has submitted rezoning and development plans to create a 14-unit townhouse complex in Kelowna.

    castanet.net

  • The Government of Canada is providing $12M for 6 projects in B.C. including West Vancouver, Squamish, the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island. The fund will support projects to conserve and restore aquatic ecosystems.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $12M for 6 projects in B.C. including West Vancouver, Squamish, the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island. The fund will support projects to conserve and restore aquatic ecosystems.

    canada.ca

  • A new $90.6M wastewater treatment plant will be constructed in Kimberly with contributions from the federal, provinical and municipal governments.

    canada.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments and City of Abbotsford are providing $19M to support the Fraser River Bank Erosion Protection project. The project protects helps to reduce flooding and further erosion.

    canada.ca

  • Tim Hortons, a fast-food coffee chain, has opened a 24 hour store in Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $380,000 towards a two-year pilot project for the Chefs' Table Society of B.C to support the restaurant industry. The pilot project will develop action plans to improve workplace culture and attract, recruit, and retain skilled employees.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $6.49M to the fund three capital projects and three planning projects for wood-product manufacturers throughout B.C. The funding will improve efficiency, reduce waste and create forestry jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Provincial Government has provided North Island College with $68.5M towards the construction of student housing at their Comox Valley campus. The two student housing buildings will provide 217 beds for students, and are expected to be complete by summer 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • B.C. housing is providing $3.9M to support 60 temporary homes in Kelowna. The homes will be operated by a non-profit organization with support services including daily meals, 24/7 staffing, access to skills training and support navigating the housing system.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Unity Acquisitions Inc. will be acquiring Mastermind GP Inc. in January, resulting in a closure of 18 stores in Canada. The Prince George location in B.C. will be closing.

    edmontonjournal.com
• Week of 2023-11-27 to 2023-12-01

  • Fortescue will be building a new hydrogen plant in Prince George, creating over 100 permanent jobs. However, the plant will require 1,000 mega-watts of electricity to operate. The provincial government is negotiating with Fortescue on how to prevent residents having to pay more on their hydro bills.

    mybulkleylakesnow.com

  • Paper Excellence Canada recently announced the extension of the curtailment of its paper operations at the Catalyst Crofton facility to the end of February 2024. As a result, around 70 paper operations employees will not be back to work in December. The mill’s pulp production will continue to operate during the extended paper curtailment.

    timescolonist.com

  • The workers strike at Rogers’ sugar refinery in Vancouver is resulting in supply shortages and rising sugar costs across western Canada.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • University of Northern British Columbia will be offering courses in machine learning and Artificial Intelligence as part of their continuing studies program.

    mynechakovalleynow.com

  • Nelson’s police department is requesting city council to increase their budget to support two new officer positions in 2024. Currently the department has 21 officers; however, 15 are currently working. There are two vacant positions and the remaining staff are either in training, on administrative leave, or medical leave.

    nelsonstar.com

  • Finning, a Caterpillar sales and service company, is closing their Houston oulet store. All 22 employees have been offered the option to remain with the company in Houston as field technicians and doing parts deliveries.

    houston-today.com

  • Community Futures Peace Liard has requested the City of Fort St. John offer their support towards a funding application for the training of 16 Northern B.C. paramedics. The application is being submitted to the province’s Community Workforce Response Grant program.

    energeticcity.ca

  • Fort St. John council has agreed to support NorthRiver Midstream and a $350M natural gas pipeline project in the region. The project is anticipated to take 11 months and create at least 250 jobs.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The Canadian Security Intelligence Service is in the process of filling some positions, including a Regional Protective Services Officer in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Arc'teryx, a B.C.- based outdoor company, is opening a 3,500 sq. ft. store in Kelowna in summer 2024. The company is expected to hire several employees.

    castanet.net

  • South Okanagan General Hospital's emergency room temporary closed on November 28 and 29 due to ongoing staffing problems. Patients who needed care were directed to Penticton Regional Hospital.

    castanet.net

  • VanSuya, a Nigerian cuisine, recently opened in Surrey.

    dailyhive.com

  • Sonder Café has recently opened in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Hazukido, a Japanese bakery, will be soon opening a new café in Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • Zapoteca Mexican Grill, is opening a restaurant in Vancouver. This will be the second location in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Fraser Health region has created two new response teams to care for youth experiencing mental-health or substance-use crises. The teams support patients 12 hours per day, seven days a week and can also travel to hospitals upon request by clinical staff.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • According to the B.C. government’s recent Labour Market Outlook report, provincial employment is forecasted to grow at an average rate of 1.2% per year over the next 10 years. By 2033, the report indicates approximately 3.1 million people will be working throughout the province.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $5.5M to the First Nations Public Service Secretariat to support the training and employment opportunities of young people in the First Nations public sector.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is proposing a two-acre parcel in Port Moody be redeveloped into rental units, child care spaces, health-care services, educational opportunities and a retail space. The Province will be engaging with the community and local First Nations, while detailed design work may take more than a year to complete.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Through the new On-Farm Technology Adoption Program, the federal and provincial governments are providing $3M over two years to assist B.C. farmers. The funding aims to help with the effects of supply-chain issues, labour shortages, and higher costs due to inflation.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $14M to support B.C.’s tourism sector to develop local tourism attractions and draw more visitors to the province. In B.C., there are over 16,650 tourism businesses that employ over 84,000 people.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2023-11-20 to 2023-11-24

  • Th B.C. Government is granting $700,000 to the District of Kitimat to build a recreational dock at Minette Bay West Park. Due to delays in funding, construction is set to begin in late 2024 or early 2025.

    northernsentinel.com

  • TechBrew Robotics, a Salmon Arm-based company, has secured $17.5M towards the development and deployment of robotic solutions for mushroom harvesting. The company has also announced it will be changing its name to 4AG Robotics.

    cowichanvalleycitizen.com

  • Virtue Natural Bakery is planning to open a brick-and-mortar shop in Vancouver. The bakery has been operating at farmer's markets since 2017.

    dailyhive.com

  • Garcha Bros, a meat and poultry shop, recently opened in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Ricardo’s Ice Cream Shop is opening a second location in Vancouver in the spring of 2024. The shop offers over 80 ice cream flavours.

    dailyhive.com

  • Top Wok Dim Sum Express has opened an all-day dim sum restaurant in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • White Spot is closing its restaurant in Langley at the end of December after operating for 44 years. The restaurant is closing due to the new SkyTrain expansion.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. Government is providing $1.3 million toward four projects in the Fraser Valley region though the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund. The funding will help companies in the forestry and manufacturing sectors grow and create well-paying jobs in Abbotsford, Aldergrove and Agassiz.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada and TransLink are providing $31.1M to upgrade the Port Coquitlam Transit Centre and improve transportation options for commuters. The funding supports facility expansion as well as upgrades to the fleet of buses, such as new double decker and battery-electric buses.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada has announced Surrey as the location of a new PacifiCan headquarters. Opening in the fall of 2024, the new site will allow the agency to better support the Lower Mainland and communities south of the Fraser Valley.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing more than $260,000 to revitalize the City of Langley’s downtown core and Willoughby Community Park. The funding will create a new plaza in the park and provide picnic tables and outdoor sitting areas.

    canada.ca

  • Canfor has announced a six-month curtailment at its Polar sawmill in Bear Lake B.C., located approximately 70 km north of Prince George. While no start date for the curtailment has been announced, Canfor has confirmed that 190 workers will be affected.

    mybulkleylakesnow.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.1M to Burnaby-based Greenlight Innovation Corporation to develop and manufacture hydrogen fuel cells, electrolysers, and energy storage devices. The funding is expected to create 45 new jobs, improve inventory management, and generate increased revenues.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $5.6M for two Vancouver-based tech companies to improve construction site safety and provide more transit options. The funding is anticipated to generate 100 jobs.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2023-11-13 to 2023-11-17

  • The Governments of Canada and British Columbia have announced a $1.05B partnership with E-One Moli to build a lithium-ion battery cell manufacturing facility in Maple Ridge. The new facility will create 450 new jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • HBO's television series The Last of Us is set to return to production in Vancouver on January 7, 2024.

    globalnews.ca

  • Stuwix Resources Joint Venture (SRJV) and Valley Carrier, two Merritt-based companies, are exploring new ways to reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions. SRJV is moving towards full-length tree harvesting instead of the traditional cut-to-length forestry practice. Valley Carrier is looking make a better use of leftover forest materials, such as forest residuals.

    fesbc.ca

  • The Government of British Columbia is providing $7.5M to Punjab Milk Foods to establish a new dairy processing plant in Surrey. The new manufacturing centre is expected to be complete by early 2025 and will create at least 50 full-time jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of British Columbia is providing close to $55.8M in low-interest financing to Kiwanis Village West to build 150 affordable rental unit in West Vancouver. Construction is expected to be finished in 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Whole Child Childcare, a new childcare centre, recently opened in Chilliwack. Owned and operated by the Unique Get Together Society, the centre will accommodate 32 children with a focus on supporting kids with special needs and Indigenous children.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Vancouver-based Teck Resources has agreed to sell its steelmaking coal business, Elk Valley Resources, in a series of deals. Glencore, a Swiss company will acquire a 77% stake, while Japanese company Nippon Steel Corp. will purchase a 20% stake, and South Korean steelmaker POSCO will have a 3% stake. In total, the value of the deal is close to US$9 billion.

    cbc.ca

  • The Government of British Columbia has passed the International Credentials Recognition Act to streamline credential recognition for internationally trained professionals. Regulatory bodies will remove barriers in 29 professions to make the process simpler. Professionals such as engineers, social workers, veterinarians, and teachers will be able to fill critical labour shortages in the province.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The provincial government is hiring 271 new full-time paramedics in 60 remote communities. As part of these changes, the Government of British Columbia is also introducing new ambulance service models. The goal of these changes is to improve service for communities while improving conditions for paramedics. These models will be more flexible to deal with spikes in demand.

    globalnews.ca

  • According to the BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association, restaurants in the Okanagan region are struggling to stay open, mainly due to the wildfires this summer, supply challenges, inflation, and labour shortages.

    infotel.ca

  • The final season of Superman and Lois is scheduled to film from January 11 to April 22, 2024. No filming locations have been announced yet, but the series has filmed in Richmond, Surrey and Delta in the past.

    .biv.com

  • Starting in March 2024, Zipair will begin offering three weekly non-stop flights from Vancouver to Tokyo. In the meantime, Vancouver International Airport is working with Zipair to finalize the schedule for summer 2024.

    .biv.com

  • Victoria General Hospital and Royal Jubilee Hospital have each reopened an operating room after closing in September due to staffing shortages. Island Health has hired nine new registered nurses (RNs), while another 11 are in the hiring process. Currently, 20 out of 22 operating rooms are open full-time among the two hospitals.

    victoriabuzz.com

  • B.C. Infrastructure Benefits is currently hiring qualified trades people to work on construction of the new $1.45B Cowichan District Hospital. The number of employees on site is expected to grow to 300, with local and Indigenous workers being prioritized.

    cowichanvalleycitizen.com

  • Effective January 1, 2024, the B.C. government will increase wages for early childhood educators (ECEs) by $2/hour at participating licensed child care facilities. In addition, ECEs who have obtained a special needs certification and an infant toddler educator certification will be eligible to receive $3,000 per year.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • As of November 8, Kam Ding Seafood Restaurant has permanently closed in Coquitlam.

    dailyhive.com

  • Marugame Udon, a Japanese restaurant, is opening in Vancouver this winter.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cartems Donuts is closing its downtown Vancouver shop at the end of November.

    dailyhive.com

  • Round Pot, a new hot pot restaurant, has opened in Richmond.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-10-30 to 2023-11-03

  • Island Health patients and staff now have on-demand access to medically trained interpreters with a new audio and video remote interpreting service.

    New video interpretation service improves communication with patients | Island Health

  • Alaska Highway News and the Dawson Creek Mirror will be ceasing operations leaving a gap in news providers for Northeast BC. Glacier Media, the company that owns the papers, has cited decreasing revenue as the reason for the closures.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The Prince Rupert Port Authority has reported 81,000 ship passengers for 2023's visitor season, significantly higher than the yearly average of 15000 over the past decade.

    thenorthernview.com

  • The provincial government, in partnership with the BCPSA has announced $400K in funding to address a need for teachers in Northern BC. School District 91 in the Nechako Valley hired two new teachers as part of a teacher-recruitment drive.

    mynechakovalleynow.com

  • The Sinixt Confederacy has opened a new office in Nelson. The new location will focus on fish and wildlife issues in their territory.

    nelsonstar.com

  • A partnership between WeBC and the Northern Development Initiative Trust is offering a free suite of resource guides, mentorship, and access to financing as part of a complimentary education program to strengthen business skills for local business owners.

    mybulkleylakesnow.com

  • The provincial government issued a request for qualifications for the design and reconstruction of the Belleville Terminal, in Victoria, as part of a $300M redevelopment project. Additional funding has been announced for 31 new tourism infrastructure projects.

    timescolonist.com

  • The Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation announced up to $2K will be made available starting November for small businesses to recover the costs of vandalism.

    timescolonist.com

  • The City of New Westminster has agreed to a $30M insurance settlement for the loss of the pier and waterfront space in Westminster Pier Park. A workshop will be held to collaborate with First Nations that have an interest in partnering with the city on riverfront projects.

    ctvnews.ca

  • Simit Bakery, specializing in Turkish bagels, has opened its third bakery in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Garaku, a Japanese restaurant specializing in soup curry, is opening a 1,800 sq. ft. restaurant in Richmond soon.

    dailyhive.com

  • Nukid Cafe and Bakery has closed its Vancouver shop in October.

    dailyhive.com

  • Hannam Supermarket, a Korean supermarket, is opening a new express store in Vancouver downtown soon. The supermarket has other locations in Burnaby, Surrey, Langley, and Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Paper Planes Café, a new concept in partnership with the Pacific Autism Family Network (PAFN), has opened a new coffee shop at the Vancouver International Airport in Richmond. The staff will include a team of individuals of different abilities from the neurodiverse community. PAFN will deliver a 6-month training program to prepare the staff for restaurant and service industry, and support their job search.

    dailyhive.com

  • Gram Pancakes, a Japanese dessert café chain, has closed three cafes in Metro Vancouver including two in Burnaby and one in Richmond. The company cited the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on its cafes.

    nomsmagazine.com

  • The Good Wolf Cafe & Co. is closing its café in Port Coquitlam in October.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Port Coquitlam has revealed the final design to build one of B.C.'s largest training and recreational hubs for soccer. The 1,200-seat grandstand is funded by $9M from the B.C. government and the remainder from the municipal government and soccer organizations. Construction is expected to start in 2024 and complete by 2025.

    dailyhive.com

  • Clearview Demolition is winding down a three-year contract to demolish the Port Alice pulp mill on Vancouver Island. The Port Alice mill has been abandoned since 2015 and has been one of the largest demolition projects in B.C.

    constructconnect.com

  • The Government of British Columbia has facilitated a new agreement that will see the Tlowitsis, We Wai Kai, Wei Wai Kum and K’ómoks First Nations, acquire a 34% stake for $35.9M in a new limited partnership with Western Forest Products. The partnership will cover operations in tree farm license 39, on Vancouver Island. The partnership aims to advance reconciliation as well as provide increased economic opportunities to Indigenous peoples.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and the Tla’amin Nation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on a sustainable future for tisk?at. The MOU focusses on environmental stewardship, economic development and Tla’amin’s long-term goal of site repossession.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Effective November 1, the B.C. government, through the Pay Transparency Act, will require all publicly advertised jobs to include transparent wage or salary information. Large and medium-sized employers will also be required to publicly post reports on gender-pay gap.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has provided over $400,000 to recruit 50 new teachers in rural and remote communities in northern B.C., Vancouver Island and the Thompson-Okanagan region. The B.C. government is providing an additional $1.5M over three years for continued incentives to recruit teachers in remote communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has provided over $400,000 to recruit 50 new teachers in rural and remote communities in northern B.C., Vancouver Island and the Thompson-Okanagan region. The B.C. government is providing an additional $1.5M over three years for continued incentives to recruit teachers in remote communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Perfecto Café is opening a 1,200 sq. ft. café in Vancouver in Summer 2024. This will be the second Vancouver location.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government has provided over $400,000 to recruit 50 new teachers in rural and remote communities in northern B.C., Vancouver Island and the Thompson-Okanagan region. The B.C. government is providing an additional $1.5M over three years for continued incentives to recruit teachers in remote communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has provided over $400,000 to recruit 50 new teachers in rural and remote communities in northern B.C., Vancouver Island and the Thompson-Okanagan region. The B.C. government is providing an additional $1.5M over three years for continued incentives to recruit teachers in remote communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and the BC Parks Foundation is establishing a $300M Conservation Financing Mechanism, a new tool that will protect B.C.’s old growth forests and habitats. The fund will be managed by government committees, experts, and First Nations.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing 5,000 shelter spaces in 50 communities in B.C., including Kamloops, Kelowna, Prince George, Vancouver, Surrey, and Victoria. Of these shelters, 3,968 will be permanent shelters, while 512 are temporary and 520 are extreme weather-response shelters.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing 5,000 shelter spaces in 50 communities in B.C., including Kamloops, Kelowna, Prince George, Vancouver, Surrey, and Victoria. Of these shelters, 3,968 will be permanent shelters, while 512 are temporary and 520 are extreme weather-response shelters.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing 5,000 shelter spaces in 50 communities in B.C., including Kamloops, Kelowna, Prince George, Vancouver, Surrey, and Victoria. Of these shelters, 3,968 will be permanent shelters, while 512 are temporary and 520 are extreme weather-response shelters.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing 5,000 shelter spaces in 50 communities in B.C., including Kamloops, Kelowna, Prince George, Vancouver, Surrey, and Victoria. Of these shelters, 3,968 will be permanent shelters, while 512 are temporary and 520 are extreme weather-response shelters.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Sterling Centre Clinic, the last walk-in clinic in Vernon, is permanently closing on November 15. The closure is due to a shortage of staff.

    cbc.ca

  • The B.C. government is planning to amend the International Credentials Recognition Act by Summer 2024, which allows internationally educated professionals to work in B.C. faster. The legislation will remove redundant language testing and processing times for 29 professions, including engineers, social workers, early childhood educators, paramedics, teachers, and biologists.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal, provincial, and municipal governments are providing $24.3M to build a new water treatment plant in Williams Lake. As part of the project, 850 metres of new watermain will support clean drinking water for the community.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.9M for 11 projects in Sea to Sky communities to revitalize public spaces and enhance tourism experiences. Projects include building a community space in Squamish, developing a campground for the Whistler Olympic Park, and upgrading infrastructure in Pemberton and Whistler.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $3.6M to Lucent Bio, a regenerative agriculture manufacturer, to support 27 new jobs and increase its annual revenue to $30M by 2026. The government aims to support small-and medium-sized businesses through the Business Acceleration Pilot project.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2023-10-23 to 2023-10-27

  • Dragon Bowl, a Chinese restaurant, is opening its second restaurant in New Westminster soon.

    dailyhive.com

  • Daruma, a Japanese convenience store has opened a second location in Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • Jinya Ramen Bar is opening a restaurant in Vancouver this winter.

    dailyhive.com

  • Catalyst Paper, a subsidiary of Paper Excellence, is extending the curtailment of paper operations at its Catalyst Crofton facility until the end of November, which affects 70 employees. These operations have been curtailed since June 30.

    paperexcellence.com

  • The Prince Rupert Port Authority is investing $750M on the Ridley Island Export Logistics Project, an innovative large-scale logistics project that provides expanded capacity for exports and improves supply chains. Construction started in October and is expected to create over 200 construction jobs.

    rupertport.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $500,000 to value-added wood producers and manufacturing businesses in the Kootenays. The funding will support equipment purchases that boost productivity and capacity at the sawmill, protect 75 jobs and expand log processing.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal, provincial, and municipal governments are providing $1.9M for the Penticton Community Recreation Centre to support infrastructure upgrades including HVAC equipment and heat recovery. The project will reduce natural gas and water use and lower the facility's greenhouse gas emissions.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government, First Nations Health Authority and the Northwest Working Group are working to provide culturally safe addiction supports in Terrace for Indigenous people and the community. The group aims to provide resources, treatments and recovery services to people living with addiction.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • An international, multi-government agreement has been signed by nine governments, including the B.C. government, City of Abbotsford, First Nations and Washington state to address flooding in the Nooksack and Sumas watersheds. The collaboration will address flood risks and restore salmon habitat in the Fraser Valley.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and BC Hydro are working with First Nations and clean-energy companies to shape clean-power and renewable resources in B.C. in spring 2024. The consultation includes 24 First Nations, First Nations energy and Mining Council, First Nations Major Projects Coalition, and other organizations.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $14.2M to build 20 new affordable rental homes in Prince Rupert for the Gitxaa?a Nation. Construction is expected to complete in summer 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and the Nanaimo Regional Hospital District are providing $286M to build a new long-term care home with 300 beds in Nanaimo. Construction is expected to start in 2025 and complete in 2027.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $750,000 to upgrade the Lake Loop Trail in Coquitlam's Town Centre Park. The funding includes widening and paving the pathway, updating lighting and landscaping and making the trail safer and more accessible.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $71M through the B.C. Wildfire and Drought AgriRecovery Initiative to help producers return to full operations. Farmers and ranchers can receive up to 70% assistance during emergencies.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $9.9M to Innovate BC to support technology businesses and services. Funding will go towards the Integrated Marketplace, a platform to help businesses develop and adopt clean technologies and transform innovative measures and technologies to support Canada's net-zero emissions targets.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $500,000 to the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB) to support Indigenous entrepreneurs in B.C. CCAB bridges Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, businesses, and communities through programs, tools, training, and network-building opportunities.

    canada.ca

  • The George Massey Tunnel project in Metro Vancouver is moving to the next phase of procurement with proposals being reviewed by spring 2024. The new eight-lane tunnel will improve transportation for people and goods. Other projects include the Fraser River Tunnel Project and the five-land Stevenson Interchange.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $3.7M to support the Pathways to Engagement and Employment Readiness (PEERS) program, a program that provides alternate routes to employment for people experiencing homelessness. The program is expected to support 300 B.C. participants in informal and flexible work placements.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has purchased the 48-unit Keefer Rooms apartment building in Vancouver for $19M, to provide affordable housing options for people. The building will provide onsite support, including food services support and harm reduction programs. The building will undergo renovations and is expected to be available in Spring 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal, provincial, and municipal governments are providing $10.1M for the final phase of wastewater infrastructure upgrades in Lake Cowichan. The Project supports the expansion of the wastewater treatment facility as well as infrastructure enhancements.

    canada.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing additional funding to BC Transit to support the electrification of the new handyDART operations facility in Victoria. The funding supports accessible transit service to commuters with disabilities and Canada's net-zero emission goals. Construction of the facility has begun and is expected to open in 2025.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2023-10-16 to 2023-10-20

  • Osteria Elio Volpe, an Italian restaurant, is opening a 4,200 sq. ft. restaurant in Vancouver this winter. The restaurant has a capacity of 115 patrons.

    dailyhive.com

  • The federal and provincial governments and the City of Trail are providing $3.5M for infrastructure and facility upgrades to the Trail Memorial Centre. The funding supports sustainable upgrades to HVAC systems, boiler, and refrigeration units.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government and City of Kelowna are providing 120 new housing units in the next few months to address homelessness. The shelters will provide temporary housing solutions to people who are unhoused or currently living in encampments. Once constructed, the homes will provide support services including daily meals, 24/7 staffing and access to skills training.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government’s chief forester has reduced the allowable annual cut (AAC) level to 375,000 cubic metres for the Lillooet Timber Supply Area (TSA), a 34% reduction from the previous AAC. The new AAC is based on the assessment of forest health, climate changes, spruce beetle infestations, old-growth management, species at risk, and wildlife habitat.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is hosting accelerator table sessions to bring together First Nations, value-added manufacturers, and forest licenses holders to develop joint solutions to grow and diversify B.C.’s value-added manufacturing sector. Some of the value-added manufactures include wood products including mass timber, furniture, veneer, plywood, panelling, shingles, flooring, utility poles and log homes.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Construction has begun on the Trans-Canada highway improvement in Shuswap region, including widening the highway to four lanes, replacing the Tappen overpass and adding commercial and passenger vehicle pull out. Construction is expected to be complete in 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1.34M to Armstrong’s Woodtone Specialties to increase efficiency, improve fibre recovery, and add a new product line that will create 50 jobs at the company. The project supports job growth by providing training and new employment to Adams Lake Band members. The B.C. government is also supporting three other manufacturers to upgrade their operations and sustain jobs in rural communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $2.9M to four organizations in B.C. for climate and disaster risk-reduction projects. Projects include disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation and resiliency for diverse groups including Indigenous people, women, elderly, rural communities, people with disabilities and people affected by poverty.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $4.39M over three years to New Roads Therapeutic Recovery Community in Victoria to support men with recovery from incarceration, housing instability and addiction. The recovery program is expected to support 330 people with recovery and re-entry into society.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $3M in funding for four projects that support workers at small and medium-sized businesses improve their technical skills. The University of British Columbia is receiving $1.7M to help businesses become leaders in composites manufacturing. The funding is expected to support 1,000 small and medium-sized businesses, provide training for 600 professionals, and create over 80 jobs.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $3.6M to Indigenous clean energy projects to help Kitselas Geothermal harness geothermal energy for commercial use. The project is expected to generate over 170 new jobs, including Indigenous workers and provide economic benefits for the region.

    canada.ca

  • Construction is progressing on the Broadway Subway Project, a transportation extension of the Skytrain's Millennium line. The Broadway corridor in Vancouver links health-care services, research hubs and is home to B.C.'s second-largest jobs centre. The project is expected to create 13,000 direct and indirect jobs during and after construction.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Prince George Hiring and Post-Secondary Education Expo is having a hiring fair on November 2. Some recruiters include EW Local 993, The Gisborne Group, Arrow Transportation, Carrier Sekani Family Services, Lakes District Maintenance, ICBC, BC RCMP 911 Police Dispatchers, BC Metis Federation, College of the New Caledonia, Terracon Geotechnique.

    northernsentinel.com

  • The B.C. government has amended a regulation which ensures construction workers will be provided flush toilets for job sites with 25 workers or more.

    cbc.ca

  • Living Edge Okanagan Builders has submitted development plans for a six-storey, 101 unit, multi-family residential project in Kelowna.

    castanet.net

  • Parkinson Recreation Centre's pool and aquatic area in Kelowna will be closed for an extended period effective October 24, due to unforeseen infrastructure issues. The centre is expected to reopen in January 2024.

    castanet.net

  • Decathlon, a sporting goods retailer, is opening a 38,000 sq. ft. store in Burnaby's Metrotown shopping mall in Spring 2024.

    dailyhive.com

  • Secret Garden, a Korean restaurant, is opening soon in Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Tiko Pizza, a pizza and bubble tea shop, is opening in Vancouver soon.

    dailyhive.com

  • Chef Hung Taiwan Bistro has closed one of its restaurants in Downtown Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-10-09 to 2023-10-13

  • The B.C. government is using light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data to help communities plan and respond to climate emergencies, support habitat and ecosystem protection and inform sustainable forestry management. LiDAR data helps governments, First Nations, communities, decision-makers, land-use planners make better decisions to protect old growth and help Indigenous partners and industries support jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has provided $11.7M and completed a 14-unit women's housing in Valemount for vulnerable women, their children and families leaving violence. A 72-space child care facility is available for residents and the community.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $4M to support local and Indigenous governments in B.C. with programs and projects that increase physical activity opportunities. The programs will support physical activity and reduce diseases associated with physical inactivity.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1M to University of Victoria's CanAssist, which helps people with disabilities find employment opportunities through personalized technologies. CanAssist develops technologies to assist people with disabilities in workplaces.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $16.2M to construct 48 new affordable rental homes in Courtenay for vulnerable women, their children and families leaving violence. Construction is expected to be completed in summer 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing a new 24 hour virtual mental-health counselling support, Here2Talk, for post-secondary students this fall. Here2Talk provides virtual, online chat, and over the phone services free of cost to post-secondary students in B.C. Counselling services are also available in French, Mandarin, Cantonese, Punjabi, Spanish and Arabic.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.2B over three years in a bilateral agreement to improve access to health care and services in British Columbia. The plan includes improving health care worker recruitment and retention initiatives, enhancing access to mental health and addiction services, supporting First Nations Health Authorities, and addressing backlogs from COVID-19.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.4M to six projects in the Lower Mainland to upgrade infrastructure, revitalize public spaces and enhance tourism experiences. The funding will support community wellness, economic opportunities, and jobs.

    canada.ca

  • Casa Molina, a Spanish restaurant, is opening in Vancouver this winter.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.5M to the Regional Extension program to support 16 projects for research, knowledge transfer and new technologies related to sustainable agriculture throughout B.C. The program will support strategies and plans for farmers to prepare and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

    canada.ca

  • Naramata Bench has closed their winery, tasting room and shop, due to damage to their Okanagan vineyards. Their wines will be available online, at local retailers and restaurants.

    castanet.net

  • The Government of Canada is providing $312,000 to Frontier Collective Society to showcase B.C.’s innovative technologies to the world. Frontier Collective supports B.C.'s tech industry and supports the growth and infrastructure for early-stage companies.

    canada.ca

  • The Pie Hole, a pie speciality shop, has opened in Langley in October.

    dailyhive.com

  • Saijo Handroll, a Japanese restaurant is planning to open in Vancouver in spring 2024.

    dailyhive.com

  • IWG, a co-working office company, is opening 13 new locations across Canada, including Regus in Burnaby and Spaces in Surrey. The company provides flexible spaces and short-term agreements for hybrid working offices.

    dailyhive.com

  • Simon Fraser University is opening a new medical school in 2026, which will be the first new medical school in western Canada in 55 years. The medical school will include simulated lab spaces, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality.

    theglobeandmail.com

  • The B.C. government has developed a new digital building permit tool, which is faster and simpler for building permits to be submitted and reviewed, speeding up the process and creating more homes faster in B.C. The tool is a pilot partnership with B.C. government, 16 local governments, one First Nations Government. The tool expected to start testing in communities by March 2024 and will be expanded into other communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Kouign Café is closing in Vancouver in November.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Pilates Mat Room is opening its studio in Penticton in October.

    castanet.net

  • The B.C. government has approved a new underground gold mine near Wells, at approximately $1B in capital spending for the life of the mine. The project is expected to employ 200 to 300 workers during construction and 500 permanent jobs during operations. The plan is to recruit approximately 75% workers from the region.

    mining.com

  • Carrier Sekani Family Services has opened a new sobering centre in Prince George. The facility supports people who need care, and the centre includes 10 beds, showers, laundry services and other necessities.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $1.3M over two years to nine organizations to increase local food production, and improve access to culturally appropriate food and advance reconciliation for local communities throughout B.C. The funding supports food security, reduces poverty, and creates more accessible food to people.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The West Kootenay Transit System is facing staffing challenges for bus drivers for routes in Nelson, Castlegar, North Shore, Salmo and Nakusp. The service continues to look for bus drivers to maintain public transit services.

    castlegarsource.com

  • Union Market, a Portuguese grocery store, is closing in Vancouver at the end of October. The grocery shop has been open for 30 years.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-10-06 to 2023-10-10

  • The Government of Canada is providing $4.4M to support flood mitigation and a drainage channel in Coquitlam. The funding will help protect homes and businesses in the community against future weather-related events.

    canada.ca

  • UNBC's Family Nurse Practitioner Masters' Program has doubled the number of seats available, expanding to 40 seats.

    mybulkleylakesnow.com

  • Vancouver apparel brand Kit and Ace annouced three new store openings in Metro Vancouver.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • CDN Controls in Fort St John announced a commitment of 1.5% of Earnings Before Income Tax towards a community investment strategy focused on providing grants , education and training towards creating more local jobs.

    energeticcity.ca

  • Ramen One, a Japanese restaurant, is opening in Vancouver. The restaurant is hiring for staff.

    dailyhive.com

  • Breka Bakery & Café is opening a 24-hour café in Vancouver in Spring 2024.

    dailyhive.com

  • B House Restaurant, an Asian fusion restaurant, recently opened in Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Scotiabank branch in Lumby is planning on closing its branch in September 2024, leaving Lumby with no financial institutions - banks or credit unions. Residents will have to travel to Vernon if they wish to do any in-person banking.

    castanet.net

  • Interior Health is hiring health care workers for the new Rutland Urgent and Primary Care Centre in Kelowna. The new Centre will include 31.3 full-time equivalent employees including family doctors, nurse practitioners, nurses, social workers, physiotherapists, and life skill workers.

    castanet.net

  • Rogers Communication Inc. announced plans to lock out technicians on November 6, 2023, which represents 300 former Shaw technicians. The technicians support homes and businesses for internet, phone, and television services throughout B.C.’s Lower Mainland.

    vancouversun.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $1.2M for expansion projects to help manufacturing companies grow and create well-paying sustainable jobs in Northern B.C. including Terrace, 150 Mile House, 100 Mile House, Mackenzie and Vanderhoof. The funding supports wood-manufacturing companies, creates 20 positions and maintains forestry jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1.2M for expansion projects to help manufacturing companies grow and create well-paying sustainable jobs in Northern B.C. including Terrace, 150 Mile House, 100 Mile House, Mackenzie and Vanderhoof. The funding supports wood-manufacturing companies, creates 20 positions and maintains forestry jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1.2M for expansion projects to help manufacturing companies grow and create well-paying sustainable jobs in Northern B.C. including Terrace, 150 Mile House, 100 Mile House, Mackenzie and Vanderhoof. The funding supports wood-manufacturing companies, creates 20 positions and maintains forestry jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $5.4M for 60 temporary housing units for people experiencing homelessness in Kelowna. The new homes will provide meals, 24/7 staffing, access to skills training and support. The new units are expected to be available in early 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal, provincial, municipal governments and partners are providing over $64.6M towards new 103 homes for Indigenous people and people living with disabilities in Vancouver. The 11-storey home will provide shared access, social services, and programming for the community. Construction is expected to complete in late 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $885,000 to revitalize Winskill Park with a new lawn bowling green and to renovate the common areas of the KinVillage Community Centre in Delta.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $16.5M to expand the Richmond School District with 11 additional classrooms for the 2024 school year. Samuel Brighouse Elementary School will receive 150 new seats and William Cook Elementary school will receive 125 new seats.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-10-02 to 2023-10-06

  • The B.C. government has proposed a new supportive and complex-care housing facility for people experiencing homelessness in North Vancouver. If approved, the proposed housing project would provide up to 65 people with safe and secure homes.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has released the targets to deliver more homes for people in 10 B.C. municipalities within the next five years, marking a 38% increase in housing built in these communities. The municipalities include those in Metro Vancouver, Abbotsford, Kamloops, and on Vancouver Island.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has released the targets to deliver more homes for people in 10 B.C. municipalities within the next five years, marking a 38% increase in housing built in these communities. The municipalities include those in Metro Vancouver, Abbotsford, Kamloops, and on Vancouver Island.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $4.7M to revitalize public spaces and enhance tourism spaces through 30 projects in British Columbia's Southern Interior including Kelowna, Kamloops, Salmon Arm, Clearwater, Clinton, and Vernon. The funding will support community spaces, attracting new visitors and boosting tourism and economic activities in these communities.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $4.7M to revitalize public spaces and enhance tourism spaces through 30 projects in British Columbia's Southern Interior including Kelowna, Kamloops, Salmon Arm, Clearwater, Clinton, and Vernon. The funding will support community spaces, attracting new visitors and boosting tourism and economic activities in these communities.

    canada.ca

  • Pinky's on Main, a new bar, has opened in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government has released the targets to deliver more homes for people in 10 B.C. municipalities within the next five years, marking a 38% increase in housing built in these communities. The municipalities include those in Metro Vancouver, Abbotsford, Kamloops, and on Vancouver Island.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Bisou Bakehouse, a French bakery, is opening in Vancouver this fall.

    dailyhive.com

  • The District of Kitimat is launching a new hiring program that aims to address the underrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in municipal government. The program gives preference to qualified residents who self-identify as Indigenous when applying for jobs by the District.

    cfnrfm.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $1.2M in funding for eight tourism projects in Northern B.C. The funding will be used towards revitalizing community infrastructure and enhancing tourism spaces. These projects are expected to create over 50 jobs.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $1.2M in funding for eight tourism projects in Northern B.C. The funding will be used towards revitalizing community infrastructure and enhancing tourism spaces. These projects are expected to create over 50 jobs.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $1.2M in funding for eight tourism projects in Northern B.C. The funding will be used towards revitalizing community infrastructure and enhancing tourism spaces. These projects are expected to create over 50 jobs.

    canada.ca

  • Vancouver Island University will be suspending its partnership with ElderCollege, a continuing education program for those 50-plus in Parksville, Nanaimo, and the Cowichan area. The university will end its support for the program in December due to financial difficulties.

    cheknews.ca

  • Cranbrook Food Recovery is planning to build a hydroponic greenhouse in Cranbrook to grow fresh produce year-round. Produce grown from the greenhouse will be both sold and given away for free to organizations who will distribute it to people in need.

    cranbrooktownsman.com

  • School District 57 (Prince George) is building three new 62-space childcare centres in Prince George and Mackenzie. Each centre will provide spaces for 12 children under 36 months of age, 25 children from 30 months to school age, and 25 school-aged children.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing approximately $13.2M in joint funding to support transit improvements along the Old Island Highway in Colwood and View Royal. The funding will be used to construct dedicated transit and bike lanes, queue jump lanes, and install accessibility and road enhancements.

    canada.ca

  • Construction is currently underway on the Dzee Inzu Yikh supportive housing complex in Burns Lake. The complex will provide residents with services including daily meals, referrals, and culturally appropriate programming. Construction is expected to be complete in fall 2024.

    burnslakelakesdistrictnews.com

  • Heytea, a new bubble tea shop is planning to open in Burnaby in the near future.

    dailyhive.com

  • The North Island Crisis & Counselling Centre is launching the Sexual Assault Response Program for the North Island. The new program will direct services to victims by providing practical and emotional support, crisis intervention, legal system navigation, and accessing community supports.

    northislandgazette.com

  • Renovations at the Nazko Community Hall in Quesnel are now complete. The infrastructure upgrades include a new heating system, industrial kitchen, outdoor fire pit, and an expansion of the bathroom facilities. The $250K project was funded by the First Peoples' Cultural Council Heritage Infrastructure Program.

    mycariboonow.com

  • Construction is underway on 70 affordable rental homes in Saanich. The $22.5M housing development will prioritize people with low to moderate incomes. Construction is expected to be complete in early 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • A new 24-unit affordable housing development is now open in Powell River. The newly opened building provides homes for families with low to moderate incomes. The project received approximately $2.5M in provincial funding through the Building BC: Community Housing Fund.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Bank of Montreal branch in Dawson Creek will be permanently closing in April 2024.

    energeticcity.ca

  • BC Ferries is planning to build a new ferry terminal in Campbell River. The new 1668 sq.ft. terminal building will include an indoor passenger ticketing area, washroom facilities, and exit lane. Construction is expected to start this fall.

    cheknews.ca

  • The Gulf Islands School District will be closing Phoenix Elementary School, a publicly funded alternative school on Salt Spring Island. The closure is due to low to no enrollment of students.

    timescolonist.com

  • Aritzia, a Canadian fashion brand, is looking to hire over 600 seasonal associates across North America. Positions include retail, distribution centre and concierge teams in B.C., Alberta, and Ontario.

    dailyhive.com

  • Grouse Mountain is recruiting for the winter season and had a job fair on October 1. Full-time and part-time positions include guest services, patrollers, skyride operators, sales associates, instructors, technicians, and food services.

    dailyhive.com

  • Kelowna has two new medical clinics in the Rutland area that are recruiting for medical doctors, medical office assistants and nurse practitioners. One of the medical clinics has opened, while the other medical clinic, MEDLIV, will open later this fall.

    castanet.net

  • Catalyst Paper, a subsidiary of Paper Excellence has resumed kraft pulp operations at the Catalyst-Crofton mill in British Columbia, allowing the 300 workers to return to work. This mill has been curtailed since June 30. However, the curtailment of paper operations at Crofton mill has been extended until the end of October.

    woodbusiness.ca

  • The B.C. government and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia are planning to amend their bylaws to allow physician assistants to practise in emergency departments under the direction and supervision of physicians. The amendment will increase the emergency services workforce and improve patients' access to care.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-09-25 to 2023-09-29

  • The Government of Canada is providing over $2.6M in funding for 16 tourism projects across Vancouver Island and the Coast. The funding will be used towards upgrading existing infrastructure and building new public facilities.

    canada.ca

  • York Street Diner, a locally-owned and operated restaurant in Duncan, will be closing its doors at the end of October due to rising food costs and wages.

    mycowichanvalleynow.com

  • Ice Cream Possible in Lake Cowichan will be closing permanently at the end of September.

    cowichanvalleycitizen.com

  • The Columbia Valley and Elk Valley & South Country Rural Fire and Rescue Services are currently recruiting individuals in the East Kootenays region for paid on-call firefighting opportunities.

    myeastkootenaynow.com

  • Construction has begun on the new North Island College Student Housing Commons in Courtenay. 217 students will be able to move into the three new buildings starting in the fall of 2025.

    cheknews.ca

  • The Cowichan Valley School District is launching Careers and Trades, a program that aims to provide access to career opportunities for students in Cowichan Valley. The program is set to begin in the 2024/25 school year and will be open to youth in Grades 11 and 12.

    cowichanvalleycitizen.com

  • Construction is currently underway on a new public library in Chetwynd. The 8,640 sq. ft. library is expected to open before the holiday season this year.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • The Kootenay East Regional Hospital District and Interior Health will construct a new long-term care home in Cranbrook. The four-storey facility will add an additional 88 long-term care beds, for a total of 148 beds. Construction is expected to begin in 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing more than $15M in joint funding to support public transit in Nanaimo. The funding will be used towards the Nanaimo Downtown Exchange project, which will include the construction of an expanded off-street transit exchange, operator rest facility, and layover parking.

    canada.ca

  • West Fraser is providing $100K to the Dze L K'ant Housing Society to support the multi-family, 37-unit Indigenous housing project in Smithers. The funding will go towards the creation of an Indigenous art piece for the building and a culturally-inspired children's playground.

    dzelkant.com

  • Coastal Rides, a Sechelt-based ride-hailing service, is currently recruiting ride-sharing drivers in Fort St. John. Drivers interested must possess a valid Class 1, 2, or 4 license and a vehicle 10 years old or newer.

    energeticcity.ca

  • A new RCMP detachment has opened in Fort St. John. Replacing the previous 35-year-old detachment, the new $51.4M building comes equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure and amenities.

    energeticcity.ca

  • Big Way Hot Pot, specializing in customizable personal hot pots, is planning to open two more restaurants in 2024, with locations in Richmond and Burnaby. Big Way has several locations in Metro Vancouver, including Richmond, Vancouver and Burnaby.

    dailyhive.com

  • Chipotle Mexican Grill, a fast food chain, is planning to open two new restaurants in Surrey in October.

    dailyhive.com

  • Kuro Sushi & Bar has opened in Vancouver in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Rib & Chicken, a Korean BBQ restaurant, has permanently closed in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • La Cantina de Don Porfirio, a Mexican restaurant, has opened in Vancouver in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $76,742 towards the Kamloops Food Policy Council, to support access to food for climate emergencies and evacuations. The funding will support the council's operations into June 2024.

    castanet.net

  • The Canada Energy Regulator has approved Trans Mountain Corp.'s request to reroute its pipeline along a 1.3 kilometre stretch near Jacko Lake outside Kamloops. The approval also allows the company to undertake a modified construction method for this section.

    castanet.net

  • The Kamloops-Thompson Board of Education has approved the addition of six new full-time staff positions including a learning assistance teacher and five education assistants.

    castanet.net

  • West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. announced the sale of two of its Western Canada pulp mills at $120 million USD to Atlas Holdings, which operates pulp, paper and wood products in Canada and United States. The two mills: Millar Western Forest Products, a subsidiary of the Atlas group, will operate the Quesnel River Pulp mill in Quesnel B.C., and the Slave Lake Pulp mill in Alberta.

    westfraser.com

  • PC Urban, a real estate developer, is redeveloping a site into two five-storey apartment buildings of 141 rental homes in Vancouver. The project is expected to be complete in early 2026.

    dailyhive.com

  • ICBC is hiring a variety of positions across B.C. including disability case manager, customer contact representative, actuary, marketing communications specialist and driver examiner. Many positions are permanent full-time with some temporary full-time positions.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $15M to support and improve the social well-being of First Nations in B.C. The funding supports $100,000 for community-led projects that improve living standards for Indigenous peoples or up to $50,000 for community engagement activities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing over $4.75M to improve emergency fire responses including more training and equipment to support local fire departments and communities. The funding will also support education campaigns to teach people to prevent fires and stay safe.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $500,000 to the Raise-a-Reader campaign, which supports literacy by increasing awareness and raising money to fund community-based programs in B.C.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $61M over three years to support local governments to build new housing-density initiatives, including development approval processes and planning and zoning. The funding will help communities build more homes to keep up with housing demand.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $2.185M in annual grants to Decoda Literacy Solutions to support the co-ordination of community literacy in B.C. The expansion of community programs will provide training and resources to over 400 communities, increasing community literacy and opportunities to residents.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $20M to support the upgrade and installation of equipment and infrastructure for farmers, governments, First Nations, and organizations to prepare and respond to agriculture emergencies.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • École Hammond Bay Elementary School, located in Nanaimo, has added 12 new classrooms through funding by the B.C. government. The two-storey expansion will add 295 student seats to the community.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The City of Victoria has approved $2.5M through the Housing Reserve Fund to help build an affordable rental complex for hotel and hospitality workers. Construction is expected to start next year and bring 40 studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units.

    timescolonist.com

  • Amazon has announced plans to hire over 6,000 employees across Canada to support their delivery during the holiday season. Roles include stowing, picking, packing, sorting, shipping customer orders, with full-time, seasonal, and part-time available.

    newswire.ca

  • Pacific Poké has permanently closed its restaurant in Vancouver. The owners cited vandilism and increased break-ins.

    dailyhive.com

  • Big Way Hot Pot, specializing in customizable personal hot pots, is opening its fourth Metro Vancouver location in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Caffe Reggio, an Italian café, has opened in Coquitlam in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Seiza Japanese Cuisine is permanently closing its restaurant in Vancouver in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cotto Al Mare, an Italian restaurant, has permanently closed in Surrey.

    dailyhive.com

  • West Kelowna Fire Rescue is hiring on-call firefighters to provide emergency response, fire prevention and protection and rescue services for the city and the Westbank First Nation. Previous firefighting experience is not required, as there is a nine-month training program.

    castanet.net

  • Vancouver Coastal Health is planning to open an Urgent and Primary Care Centre (UPCC) in Vancouver's Yaletown district. The UPCC expects to hire a team of 20 to 25 employees, including physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses and social workers.

    dailyhive.com

  • • Canfor Corporation, a B.C.-based forest products company, plans to build a $200 million sawmill in Houston, British Columbia, to replace the existing lumber mill that it is closing. The new lumber facility will have a capacity to produce 350 million board feet of lumber annually. Canfor plans to demolish the old mill and finalize the new mill in early 2024. The new sawmill is expected to take two and half years to construct.

    .biv.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $15.5M through the Food Affordability and Innovation Fund to improve regional distribution networks and share storage capacity. The fund will help improve food security and support B.C.'s rural independent grocery-store operators.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.81M over three years to support the B.C. Poultry Association's preparation against highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks. Funding will support the establishment of standard operating procedures, strategic partnerships, and suppliers for destruction, biocontainment and training.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $19.2M to expand access to post-secondary education and skills training for former youth in care, through the Provincial Tuition Waiver Program. The program expansion is estimated to help an additional 1,500 program participants each year and up to 50,000 former youth in care in B.C.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government, Burnaby Hospital Foundation and the BC Cancer Foundation is providing $1.7B towards phase 2 of the Burnaby Hospital redevelopment. The 12-storey inpatient tower will include 160 private rooms and the BC Cancer Centre will include 54 ambulatory care rooms. Construction is expected to start in 2025 and be complete in 2030.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government provided $3M towards the new Susana Cogan Place, a 20-unit development that provides affordable rental homes for seniors and families with low to moderate incomes in Burnaby. The B.C. government will also provide an annual operating subsidy of $74,000.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Forest Enhancement Society of BC is funding 42 forest enhancement projects throughout British Columbia. The funding will be used to help with the collection and transportation of low-value pulp logs to pulp and pellet mills, and to reduce the risk of wildfires to communities.

    cfnrfm.ca

  • Fortescue Future Industries, an Australian iron ore company, is planning to build a green hydrogen and ammonia production facility in Prince George. The $2B project would see the creation of more than 250 direct jobs to construct the building and over 100 people to operate the plant.

    terracestandard.com

  • Earthside Birth, a maternity and midwifery clinic, has opened in Esquimalt. The clinic will provide primary maternity care and infant feeding support.

    victoriabuzz.com

  • The B.C. government is providing a $350,000 grant to the Langley Meals on Wheels Society, to expand its food security and distribution services, which provides over 5,000 meals per month to Langley households. The funding also provides upgrades to the Aldergrove Community Station House, allowing more accessibility for people using their services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $3.1M to seven organizations to support Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people in Vancouver, Langley, Kamloops and Prince George. The funding supports organizations to provide gender-based violence prevention and to aid in addressing the roots causes of violence.

    canada.ca

  • Construction has begun on the Royal BC Museum's collections and research building in Victoria. The new 164,000 sq.ft. facility is expected to complete construction in fall 2025 and be open to the public in 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $3.1M to seven organizations to support Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people in Vancouver, Langley, Kamloops and Prince George. The funding supports organizations to provide gender-based violence prevention and to aid in addressing the roots causes of violence.

    canada.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $3.1M to seven organizations to support Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people in Vancouver, Langley, Kamloops and Prince George. The funding supports organizations to provide gender-based violence prevention and to aid in addressing the roots causes of violence.

    canada.ca

  • A new restorative justice program is planning to bring service to Fort St. John, Dawson Creek, Peace River area, and to Northeast BC First Nations. The launch date of the program has yet to be set.

    alaskahighwaynews.ca

  • Eagle Harbour, a five-storey building for women and gender-diverse people who are leaving violence, has opened in Campbell River. It has 36 units for temporary, short-stay housing and 19 units of affordable rentals for permanent housing. The $21M project was jointly funded by BC Housing and the Campbell River and North Island Transition Society.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing approximately $82M in joint funding to expand access to high-speed internet for 5,429 households in the regional districts of Central Kootenay, Columbia Shuswap, Kootenay Boundary, East Kootenay, and Columbia Basin Trust.

    castlegarnews.com

  • The B.C. government is distributing 17 new beds throughout northern B.C. dedicated to recovery and support for people facing addiction challenges. Six beds are in Dawson Creek, three in Terrace, two in Prince Rupert, Quesnel, and Fort St. John, and one in Kitimat and on Haida Gwaii.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The Waap Sa’mn building at Coast Mountain College's Terrace campus reopened this month. The $13.4M newly renovated facility includes technology upgrades in classrooms and labs, improved accessibility, and added seismic and fire safety features.

    coastmountaincollege.ca
• Week of 2023-09-11 to 2023-09-15

  • The B.C. Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants program is now accepting applications from Indigenous, local, and regional governments looking to advance transportation infrastructure and planning projects.

    constructconnect.com

  • The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation is providing $150K in funding to advance the development of the Reserve House Revitalization pilot project in the Ktunaxa Nation. The project is directed at the preservation and revitalization of six on-reserve homes.

    e-know.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3M over three years to continue to deliver YMCA's Y Mind and Mind Medicine programs in 30 communities to help youth and young adults cope with stress and anxiety. Mental-health professionals will provide programs, mental-wellness tools, resources and support. The program aims to reach over 1800 youth and young adults over the next three years.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Skeena Sawmills Ltd. is indefinitely closing its sawmill in Terrace due to continuing financial and operating difficulties. Up to 150 employees are affected by this closure.

    terracestandard.com

  • Construction has begun on the Telus Ocean office tower in Victoria. The 10-storey complex features underground parking, ground-level retail spaces, eight levels of offices, and rooftop space. Completion is expected in 2025 and as many as 450 Telus employees are expected to work out of the building.

    citified.ca

  • Isabella Dicken Elementary School, located in Fernie, has completed construction of a new single-storey expansion through a $7.8M project funded by the B.C. government. The addition includes four kindergarten classrooms, a media technology room, a special education room, and a multipurpose room. The project has also added 80 new student seats.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has provided the Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique with $6.46M to purchase property for a future, permanent site for École du Pacifique in Sechelt.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $16.8M to partially replace Wonowon Elementary School. The replacement will include upgrading the existing water well and filtration system, accessibility upgrades, and creating 20 additional student seats. Construction is projected to start in summer 2024 and finish in fall 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $61.2M to replace and expand Carson Elementary School in Quesnel. The new school will have an increased total of 390 seats, as well as an expanded gym and neighbourhood learning centre. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2024 and be complete in fall 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Gitwinksihlkw Elementary School has added a new gymnasium supported by funding from the B.C. government. The gymnasium will provide students with enhanced physical education spaces and an event space for the larger community.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $126.8M to ensure 600 students will be learning in a seismically safer school by replacing Prince Rupert Middle School. The upgraded school will also include the construction of a neighbourhood learning centre.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Snuneymuxw Nation is partnering with the City of Nanaimo, Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District, and B.C. Housing on a major development in the Harewood area. The project would see 390 rental units and amenities including a daycare, school, health services, and commercial spaces.

    timescolonist.com

  • The Regional District of Bulkley Nechako has opened a new recycling depot at Knockholt Transfer Station in Houston. The depot will offer recycling of residential print, paper, and packaging.

    houston-today.com

  • The City of White Rock is hiring for a variety of positions, including recreation attendants, property/insurance manager, plumbers, building inspectors, and on-call firefighters.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Port Coquitlam announced plans to transition a corner store to a childcare facility for up to 37 children. The project is awaiting building permits and final approvals.

    tricitynews.com

  • Tacofino, a Mexican-inspired chain restaurant, is planning to open in Squamish in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Thierry Chocolates, a chocolatery and pâtisserie, has opened a café in West Vancouver. This is the third location in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Kinton Ramen is opening a Japanese restaurant in Surrey in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Lieto Café opened a bakery and cafe in Langley in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Effective January 15, 2024, Air Canada will cease services to Penticton Regional Airport.

    castanet.net

  • The B.C. government is providing $2.88B to build a second hospital and new cancer centre in Surrey, with 168 additional hospital beds and 55 treatment spaces to support population growth. Construction is expected to finish in 2029 with opening targeted for 2030.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has completed an $11.8M four-storey modular building that provides permanent housing for residents at the Emergency Response Centre (ERC) in Burnaby. This ERC was originally developed to support the population at higher risk from COVID-19 and will close after residents relocate to the new homes. The B.C. government will provide an annual operating subsidy of $1.9M.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is contributing $4M to the National Institute of Disability Management and Research to provide early intervention and occupational rehabilitation for people who are unable to work due to injury or disability. Intervention can include healthcare support, ergonomic assistance, job coaching, medical exams and assistance to maintain employment.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is accepting applications from B.C. communities to establish a local Foundry centre to provide young people ages 12-24 and their caregivers free and confidential assistance that addresses their unique mental-health and wellness needs. The province will provide $1.5M to establish the foundry centre and additional annual funding for operations and services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $31.3M for seismic upgrades at Alfred B. Dixon Elementary in Richmond. The seismic upgrades are expected to be complete by May 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is launching the first Downtown Eastside (DTES) Youth Outreach Centre in Vancouver, aiming to connect young people with crucial mental-health and substance-use supports. The multi-disciplinary outreach team is expanding from two workers to eight, including nurses, youth care workers, Indigenous peer advocate and social workers.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government contributed $10.8M to the North Arm Housing Co-operative project, which provides 58 new affordable rental homes for seniors with low or moderate incomes in Vancouver. The 411 Seniors Centre Society will operate the seniors centre that includes a commercial kitchen, multipurpose space and office space.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government provided $2M to the City of Penticton for a new child care centre with 116 spaces for infant, toddlers and school-aged children. The new 7,500 sq. ft. facility includes six child care rooms, kitchen, office spaces, and storage rooms, and is operated by OneSky Community Resources.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • School District 57 (Prince George) is currently seeking to fill 59 jobs. Positions include counsellors, learning support assistants, and elementary and secondary school teachers.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $58.6M to build a new elementary school in Chilliwack with 500 student seats, and a neighbouring learning centre and child care facility. Construction will start in late 2024 and the school is expected to be open in fall 2026.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Browns Socialhouse, a Vancouver-based restaurant chain, is set to open inside the Tin Wis Resort in Tofino.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-09-04 to 2023-09-08

  • Disney's new TRON: Ares movie, was scheduled to film in Vancouver from August to December, but has now laid off 150 people due to the ongoing effects of the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) strike. There is no known date of when the production will resume.

    dailyhive.com

  • Four Rivers Co-op is providing $100K to 14 northern B.C. organizations through their community support fund. The application period for the next round of funds will open in mid-September.

    houston-today.com

  • Four Rivers Co-op is providing $100K to 14 northern B.C. organizations through their community support fund. The application period for the next round of funds will open in mid-September.

    houston-today.com

  • Four Rivers Co-op is providing $100K to 14 northern B.C. organizations through their community support fund. The application period for the next round of funds will open in mid-September.

    houston-today.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $281K in funding to support a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning retrofit for the Snuneymuxw Daycare in Nanaimo. The project will improve air quality and reduce energy consumption operating costs for the facility.

    canada.ca

  • The BC Ambulance Service (BCEHS) in Fort St. John's is currently recruiting local individuals interested in emergency medicine to become Emergency Medical Responders and Primary Care Paramedics. There are 32 full-time positions available and training costs will be covered.

    alaskahighwaynews.ca

  • Bison Guy, a local ranch in Hudson's Hope, opened a new processing plant last month to add to its agricultural operations.

    energeticcity.ca

  • Construction has begun on Teck's new office building in Sparwood. The 121,500 sq.ft. facility will have space for 580 employees and is expected to open in 2025.

    myeastkootenaynow.com

  • The Downtown Art Gallery opened in Castlegar in July. The gallery is open Thursday and Friday from 5 – 7 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. or by appointment.

    castlegarnews.com

  • The College of New Caledonia has opened a new dry lab at its Prince George campus to provide more space for students in the growing medical laboratory technology sciences program. The lab features 18 new microscopes and computer workstations. Funding for the lab was provided by the B.C. government's Ministry of Post Secondary Education and Future Skills.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • Save-on-Foods, a grocery store chain, is opening a location at the Pine Centre Mall in Prince George in September.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • Upgrades at the South Cariboo Regional Airport have begun in 108 Mile Ranch. The project's upgrades include the replacement of the existing light system with a new LED light system and a repaved runway, apron, and taxiway.

    mycariboonow.com

  • The District of 100 Mile House's South Cariboo Joint Grants for Assistance Annual Intake Program is currently accepting applications from non-profit organizations in the Southern Cariboo region. The funding must be used for projects, activities and events that strengthen and enhance the wellbeing of the community and promote volunteerism.

    mycariboonow.com

  • Pic-a-Flic Video, a movie rental store in Victoria, will be closing its doors at the end of August. The store has been in business for 40 years.

    cheknews.ca

  • Choices Market, a BC-based grocer, opened its newest location in Parksville last month.

    pqbnews.com

  • A new 62-unit affordable housing development is now open in Nanaimo. The newly opened building provides homes for seniors and people with disabilities with low to moderate incomes. The project received approximately $10M in joint funding from the Government of Canada, B.C. government, and Woodgrove Senior Citizens Housing Society.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Wa-Bagel, a Japanese-styled bagel shop, is opening in Vancouver in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Starbucks Coffee is closing its only unionized Starbucks coffee shop in Vancouver at the end of September. The closure is due to a lease expiry. The employees have an opportunity to remain employed at another Starbucks location if desire.

    cbc.ca

  • Chatto Tea & Coffee, a Malaysian-based brand, is closing its coffee shop in Burnaby in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • IGA, a supermarket chain, is permanently closing its Port Moody location in October. This IGA store has been operating for over 30 years. The location, after an upgrade, may re-open under a different brand.

    tricitynews.com

  • The Prime Medical Clinic in Kelowna has announced a sudden closure, with little notice to their physicians, employees and patients. The Central Okanagan Division of Family Practice is working to relocate the physicians to established practices or help set up new practices in the community.

    castanet.net

  • Blackbird Interactive, a video game studio, has laid off 40 employees in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The District of Peachland has approved a new 73-unit senior’s complex. The approval will allow Peachland Seniors Support Society and BC Housing to proceed with construction.

    castanet.net

  • The Government of Canada is providing $294,523 to Essie's Place in Salmon Arm, for a 15-month project to develop community-informed solutions to address key barriers in the 2SLGBTQI+ communities. Essie's Place will deliver diversity and learning programs to community members.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $23.2M for an additional classrooms in Abbottsford for Auguston Traditional and Margaret Stenersen elementary schools, adding 180 and 360 new seats, respectively. Construction at both schools is expected to be complete in summer 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government and the Coquitlam School District have provided $43.3M towards the new Coast Salish Elementary school in Coquitlam. The new school has 430 new student spaces and will include a new child care centre for up to 55 children.

    globalnews.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $32.2M to replace Moody Elementary in Port Moody. The school will have 385 student spaces. Construction has begun and the school is expected to open in 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.4M annually to support the Community Adult Literacy Program (CALP). CALP will support 102 adult literacy programs in 132 communities and over 16,000 people in 2023-2024. The programs support adults with improving skills and accessing job opportunities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada has released data on in-demand skilled trades, with a need for 256,000 apprentices over the next 5 years in Canada. The in-demand skilled trades in B.C. include hairstylists, industrial electrician, painter/decorators, steamfitter/pipefitter and welders.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is accepting project proposals to build 3,500 affordable units for people with moderate and low incomes. The Community Housing Fund is a $3.3B program that aims to build 20,000 affordable rentals by 2032.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-08-28 to 2023-09-01

  • The Community Foundation of the Kootenay Rockies and the Columbia Valley Community Foundation is providing $371K to nine organizations in the Kootenays region through the Government of Canada's Community Services Recovery Fund. The fund aims to support community service organizations, charities, non-profits, and Indigenous governing bodies as they adapt to the long-term impacts of the pandemic.

    myeastkootenaynow.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.5M to upgrade the 911 emergency system in Nelson. The upgrade will improve service by allowing callers to report emergencies via text message and video messaging.

    nelsonstar.com

  • Kahuna Burger, a Victoria-based Hawaiian-themed restaurant, is planning to open in Victoria's downtown core this October.

    victorianow.com

  • Din Tai Fung, a world-renowned Chinese restaurant chain, is planning to open in Vancouver. This will be the first location in Canada.

    dailyhive.com

  • Kokomo, a vegan eatery, has opened a cafe in Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Greek is planning to open a new restaurant in Vancouver in late 2023.

    dailyhive.com

  • Cockney Kings Fish and Chips, a seafood eatery, is planning to open a small eatery in Vancouver. This spot is takeout focused, with limited seating spaces.

    dailyhive.com

  • Monzo Burger, a fast-food restaurant, is opening in Vancouver in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • Tim Hortons, a fast-food coffee chain, is opening a store in the Commercial-Broadway SkyTrain station in Vancouver soon.

    dailyhive.com

  • Fresh Slice, a fast-food pizza chain, has opened a store in the Yaletown-Roundhouse SkyTrain Station in Vancouver. The store is open daily from 10:30am to midnight.

    dailyhive.com

  • Catalyst Paper, a subsidiary of Paper Excellence, is extending the curtailment at its Catalyst-Crofton pulp and paper mill until the end of September. This will impact both the kraft mill and the paper mill. Operations at Catalyst-Crofton have been curtailed since June 30. Approximately 400 employees continue to be affected. The company has cited low global demand for pulp and paper products as the reason for the curtailment.

    vicnews.com

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $8.4M to support upgrades to the Montrose Avenue Transit Exchange in Abbotsford. The funding supports an enhanced transit exchange with ten bus bays, transit shelters, cycling amenities, and improvements to pedestrian and road infrastructure.

    canada.ca

  • Kaiser Taxi Service is expected to begin operations soon in Smithers. Final inspections are currently underway.

    mybulkleylakesnow.com

  • The Government of Canada is providing $750,000 to create an outdoor event space at the Richmond Olympic Oval. The funding will support a multi-use outdoor venue with new sports fields, courts and amenities, which creates community gatherings, tourism and outdoor recreation programming.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government and LIFT Impact partners are providing $140,000 to the Surrey-Delta Indo Canadian Seniors Society to install a new elevator to provide better accessibility for seniors. The funding supports seniors with on-site access to programs, social activities, and food sharing.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Businesses in the Central Okanagan that rely on tourism continue to be negatively impacted by the after effects of wildfires that occurred in the area. Despite restrictions on non-essential travel being lifted, many establishments report that visitor cancellations persist.

    castanet.net

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $400K to renovate the multi-use room at the Sportsplex in Terrace. The renovations will equip the room to be used as a before-school and after-school daycare space for school-age children. The school-age program will have up to 30 licensed childcare spaces and is expected to be in place by October.

    terracestandard.com

  • The North Peace Community Foundation is providing $187K to three community service organizations in Northeast B.C. through the Government of Canada's Community Services Recovery Fund. The fund aims to support community service organizations, charities, non-profits, and Indigenous governing bodies as they adapt to the long-term impacts of the pandemic.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The City of Kelowna issued a building permit for construction worth $262M for the University of British Columbia's Okanagan (UBCO) campus. The 43 storey building will become the tallest building in the city. The building will provide nursing and social work programs and 500 residential units for students and staff.

    castanet.net

  • The B.C. government is providing $15M to Food Banks BC to help with rising demand, and fund access to services for those affected by emergency events such as wildfires. The funding supports front-line hunger relief agencies, remote areas, regional community food hubs, and food infrastructure.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Prince George Community Foundation is providing $960K in funding to support 20 projects in Northern B.C through the Government of Canada's Community Services Recovery Fund. The fund aims to support community service organizations, charities, non-profits, and Indigenous governing bodies as they adapt to the long-term impacts of the pandemic.

    mycariboonow.com

  • The B.C government is providing grants of up to $2,500 for international and francophone educators applying for Early Childhood educator (ECE) certification. The grants can be used to translate non-English documents. This funding is in addition to the Government of Canada providing $750,000 for the 2021-25 agreement, allowing 300 ECEs to apply for the grant.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $15M for graduate scholarships over three years, adding $2,500 to each new graduate scholarship award. The scholarships aid students access more affordable education and prepare them for in-demand careers.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is placing a protection order on the Koksilah River watershed on Vancouver Island to protect steelhead trout amid low stream flows and drought. 108 water licence holders will be restricted from diverting water for agriculture and industrial purposes. The order remains in effect until September 30, or until further notice from the province.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • School District No.91 is currently seeking to hire teachers and educational staff to fill positions in Burns Lake. The school district is offering a $10K signing incentive and moving reimbursements to address the teaching shortage in northern BC.

    burnslakelakesdistrictnews.com

  • A new weather radar tower has been installed in Halfmoon Bay to provide better forecasting across Vancouver Island. The tower covers areas past Vancouver Island, beyond the Strait of Georgia, and into the interior, allowing better forecasting models and alerts if severe weather is detected.

    mycoastnow.com

  • The Fraser-Fort George Regional Hospital District has approved $2.04M in funding for lab services upgrades at the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia in Prince George. The funds will be used to replace aging equipment and allow the lab to manage increased test volumes and additional testing platforms.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • The City of Kimberley has approved three development permits to build over 100 rental units in Kimberley. All the projects are financed by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, which ensures that there will be units below market rate.

    kimberleybulletin.com
• Week of 2023-08-21 to 2023-08-25

  • The B.C. government is making improvements to the intersection of Highway 97 and Skaha Hills Drive/Sandhill Road in Penticton, which will increase safety for pedestrians and vehicle traffic. Construction will begin in fall 2023 and is expected to be complete in summer 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $430,000 to several communities to improve knowledge of risks associated with extreme temperatures. Funding will support response plans and strategies to help prepare, mitigate and adapt to the risk of extreme weather and temperatures.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $17M in funding to support the construction of 152 new affordable rental homes in Delta for seniors with low to moderate incomes. The new apartment building is expected to be completed in late 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Carbon Engineering Ltd., a Squamish-based firm, is being acquired by U.S. oil company Occidental Petroleum for $1.1B USD. Carbon Engineering aims to enhance the capture carbon and storage technology, to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. With the new U.S. acquisition, both the headquarters and employees will continue to remain in Squamish.

    cbc.ca

  • Coast Mountain College's Terrace campus is seeking individuals interested in working in the healthcare sector to enroll in their two-year practical nursing program. A $1,500 bursary incentive is being offered to increase student recruitment and address the province-wide nursing shortage.

    interior-news.com

  • The B.C. government is placing a protection order on the Tsolum River watershed on central Vancouver Island to protect spawning salmon and trout amid low stream flows and drought. 45 water licence holders will be restricted from diverting water for agriculture and industrial purposes. The order remains in effect until September 30, or until further notice from the province.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Construction is now underway on replacing the Village Green apartments in James Bay. The six-storey project is replacing a 45-unit complex with 137 rental suites. Construction is expected to be complete in 2025.

    citified.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $538M towards two restoration projects in Quesnel through the Cariboo Road Recovery Projects program, which aims to improve highway safety and reliability by stabilizing roads located on historic landslide sites.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Dawson Creek Co-op has announced that its new fertilizer shed and distribution facility in Rolla is now complete and fully operational. The upgraded fertilizer plant can blend product at speeds of 280 metric tonnes per hour, enhancing fertilizer and crop inputs for local farmers.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The Jumpstart Multisport Court in Prince George is expected to open at the end of August. The court is over 28,000 sq. ft. and includes a full size basketball court, tennis court, four pickleball courts, and a self-guided play area.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • The College of New Caledonia's Research Forest Society is providing $100K to the Stellat’en First Nation and School District 91 (Nechako Lakes) through its legacy fund, which supports projects with a focus on environmental improvement, natural resource education, outdoor recreation, or environmental commitment to local communities.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The First Nations Health Authority has opened a new office on the Lheidli T’enneh Reserve. The office will provide space for 12 provincial and regional employees on a full-time and part-time basis to deliver health and wellness programs and resources to First Nations peoples.

    ckpgtoday.ca

  • Construction of a $1.1M outdoor covered multipurpose rink is nearing completion in the District of Wells. The rink is expected to be used for hockey, pickleball, basketball, cultural events, weddings, and farmers markets.

    mycariboonow.com

  • Construction will begin this fall on a new 129-room extended stay TownePlace Suites hotel in Sidney. The three-storey all-suite hotel will feature units with fully equipped kitchens, a fitness centre, swimming pool, and meeting spaces. The hotel is slated to open in late spring of 2025.

    timescolonist.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.8M in funding to 17 northern-B.C. local governments, First Nations, and registered non-profit organizations through the Northern Healthy Communities Fund, which aims to help address service needs in communities that are experiencing large-scale economic development.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.8M in funding to 17 northern-B.C. local governments, First Nations, and registered non-profit organizations through the Northern Healthy Communities Fund, which aims to help address service needs in communities that are experiencing large-scale economic development.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $3.8M in funding to 17 northern-B.C. local governments, First Nations, and registered non-profit organizations through the Northern Healthy Communities Fund, which aims to help address service needs in communities that are experiencing large-scale economic development.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $650K to replace critical high-risk watermains in Telkwa. The funds will be used to support the replacement of aging pipe sections that connect Telkwa's water-treatment plant to the reservoir. The upgrade will improve water flow and supply through the village and ensure people have access to water during emergencies.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $1M to Vancouver Island University to launch the Trades Pathways for Newcomers program this September. The fully-funded 15-week long program supports newcomers to Canada who want to pursue a career in the trades. Students will shadow different trades programs and also meet employers in the trades industry.

    canadianmanufacturing.com

  • Esprit, a Hong Kong-based clothing retailer, is planning to open in Vancouver. Espirit closed their previous Vancouver location in 2012, when all 100 stores in North America closed.

    dailyhive.com

  • Browns Social House, a restaurant chain, has permanently closed its Richmond location in August.

    dailyhive.com

  • Psycho Bunny, a Montreal-based clothing company, is planning to open three stores in Metro Vancouver this fall. The locations include Burnaby, Vancouver and Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • The Valley Bakery, a family-owned bakery in Burnaby, is permanently closing in August after 66 years of operation.

    ctvnews.ca

  • Yyoga, a yoga chain, is permanently closing its one of its Vancouver studios in September.

    dailyhive.com

  • The McDougall Creek wildfire in Kelowna has caused damage to wineries, agri-food operations and residential properties. The wildfire's affects on the tourism sector includes the loss of the Lake Okanagan Resort and temporarily closure of multiple wineries and tasting rooms.

    westerninvestor.com

  • The Okanagan region's toursim sector faces severe economic effects from major event cancellations due to the McDougall fire in Kelowna. Penticton Ironman, an athlete competition with 2,000 competitors and generate $15M in business, has been cancelled. Nimble Fingers in Kamloops is an annual festival generating 1,500 visitors and suffered over $35,000 of losses in food alone. The cancellations also affect companies in accommodations and food services.

    cbc.ca

  • Glacier Media, a newspaper publisher, has announced it will cease print operations and plans to lay off staff at Burnaby Now, Tri-City News and the New Westminster Record. Glacier Media shifted to digital only in mid-August. The B.C. Labour Code requires the company to provide a 60-day notice for layoffs, and the dates and number of positions affected are not yet known.

    cbc.ca

  • Paper Excellence Canada has announced the permanent curtailment of Catalyst Paper tiskwat paper mill in Powell River, after determining the restart of a pulp or paper business is not feasible. The mill has been temporarily curtailed since December 2021, which affected around 200 employees at the time

    paperexcellence.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $48M to Capilano University to establish a campus in Squamish on at the former site of Quest University. The new post-secondary campus is will open in spring 2024 and expects 380 students in the future. The campus will serve students studying early childhood care and education, literacy programming, arts, science and business programs and outdoor recreation.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has announced its verified account on Weibo, a popular Chinese-language social media platform. The posts will connect Chinese communities with accessible information on public safety, emergency preparedness, cost of living, housing, education, health care and justice services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • With drought conditions in the Thompson-Okanagan region, the B.C. government is setting restrictions on water use for forage crops in Salmon River and Bessette Creek, to protect the spawning chinook salmon. To aid those impacted by the restrictions, the province will help match B.C. farmers with sellers of hay and feed across Canada and western United States.

    news.gov.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-08-14 to 2023-08-18

  • The B.C. government and Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc are providing culturally safe evacuee accommodations for up to 300 people in Kamloops. The temporary accommodations will provide essential support and relief to people evacuating their homes due to wildfires. The accommodations are expected to be operational starting August 16.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Portage Mountain Cannabis, a new locally-owned cannabis store, has opened in Fort St. John this month.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The City of Fernie has been granted $19M in provincial and federal funding to build a facility that will create 100 childcare spaces and 27 units of affordable housing. Housing units will be prioritized for early childhood educators across the community. Construction is planned for the spring of 2024 with an anticipated opening date in the fall of 2024.

    fernie.ca

  • The Terrace and District Community Services Society is planning to begin construction this fall or next spring on a $26.3M youth and senior housing project in Terrace. The project involves a five-storey building containing a youth Foundry service on the ground floor and seniors rental housing on the remaining floors.

    terracestandard.com

  • Bulk Barn, a Canadian bulk foods store, is planning to reopen its Prince George location this month after being closed since April due to relocation issues. The store will be relocating from College Heights to River Point Plaza.

    princegeorgecitizen.com

  • The City of Parksville has granted a development permit for a four-storey mixed use building in Parksville. The building plan includes 53 apartment units, accessible units, commercial space and underground parking.

    pqbnews.com

  • The North Island Community Health Centre opened in Port Hardy this month. The 3000 sq.ft. facility provides regular health care as well as extended medical and holistic treatments. Additional doctors and services will be offered this coming fall.

    northislandgazette.com

  • The Greater Victoria School District (SD61) is offering two free separate three-week Educational Assistant training programs in October and November. Although only some applicants will be offered a job after the training, applicants must be interested in working with SD61 and be able to accept a Monday to Friday position upon completion of the program.

    victoriabuzz.com

  • Small Victory, a coffee chain, is opening in Vancouver soon. The café has three other locations in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • Mu?kasi Coffee & Co., a café, has opened in New Westminster.

    dailyhive.com

  • Room + Spaces, a Canadian home store brand, is opening three stores in Vancouver, Kelowna and Victoria in August. With 24 stores opening across Canada, Room + Spaces is hiring 500 store associates for over 800,000 sq. ft. of retail space in Canada.

    dailyhive.com

  • Room + Spaces, a Canadian home store brand, is opening three stores in Vancouver, Kelowna and Victoria in August. With 24 stores opening across Canada, Room + Spaces is hiring 500 store associates for over 800,000 sq. ft. of retail space in Canada.

    dailyhive.com

  • Room + Spaces, a Canadian home store brand, is opening three stores in Vancouver, Kelowna and Victoria in August. With 24 stores opening across Canada, Room + Spaces is hiring 500 store associates for over 800,000 sq. ft. of retail space in Canada.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Delta is hiring for multiple jobs, including fitness instructors, firefighters, risk managers, and planners.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Burnaby is hiring for multiple jobs, including program planners, architects, specialists, instructors, analysts, and engineers.

    dailyhive.com

  • As part of the Federal Student Work Experience Program, the Government of Canada is hiring over 470 student Border Services Officers across Canada to work at the Canadian Border Services Agency in summer 2024. The locations recruiting in B.C. include Vancouver and Richmond.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government, Okanagan College and OneSky Community Resources are offering 15 tuition-free seats at the Early Childhood Education program at Okanagan College's Penticton campus. The 11-month program prepares Early Childhood educators with a practicum, hands-on experience and working with community-based and professional instructors.

    castanet.net

  • The Governments of Canada, B.C., and Metro Vancouver have provided $3.5M in joint funding to support a mutli-year improvement project for Grouse Mountain Regional Park in North Vancouver. The upgrades include a revitalized trailhead area, upgrades to trails, viewpoints, and rest stops. The Grouse Grind trail will close for upgrades from September 5 to December 31, 2023.

    metrovancouver.org

  • The B.C. government is providing $880,000 to 19 communities across B.C. to develop and upgrade emergency-evacuation-route plans and public-notification plans. Projects include supporting communities to develop and update plans, including local emergency-alerting systems, developing and reviewing evacuation route plans, geography, and modes of transportation.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $4.2M to the BC Association of Community Response Networks (CRNs) and $300,000 to the Council to Reduce Elder Abuse (CREA), to protect seniors against abuse and neglect. Eighty-six CRNs in 256 communities in B.C. work to respond to abuse and neglect for seniors. CREA prevents elder abuse through education and public awareness.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Governments of Canada, British Columbia, the City of Vancouver are providing over $97M for 248 affordable housing spaces for Indigenous residents. The development will include larger family-oriented homes, gathering spaces, and Indigenous artwork. Construction is underway and the building, Ho'-kee-melh Kloshe Lum, is expected to be completed in late 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $1.45M to five organizations in Metro Vancouver to support mental health and wellness projects for Veterans and their families. Projects include therapeutic programs on brain fog and long COVID, mental health, crisis services, counselling, and life reviews.

    canada.ca

  • Maria's Deli, a European deli and produce store in Saanich, will be closing permanently at the end of August. The restaurant has been in business for 46 years.

    victoriabuzz.com

  • The District of Saanich has begun construction on Rutledge Park this month. The $1.2M upgrade project includes modern playground equipment, splash pad, and a new washroom and changeroom building. Construction is expected to be completed in 2024.

    saanich.ca

  • Tacofino, a Mexican-inspired chain restaurant, is planning to open in Langford this fall.

    cheknews.ca

  • The federal government is providing $165K to Harwood Custom Composites, a Victoria-based Indigenous aerospace company, to scale up production and expand manufacturing operations. The funding will be used to secure equipment and materials, hire and train new staff, and attract new customers.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $200K in funding to the Community Social Planning Council of Victoria to help more people from underserved populations across Greater Victoria obtain essential identification documents. Personal identification documents, ranging from birth certificates and health-care cards to B.C. Services cards, are necessary to access critical government support and services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • JJ Bean, a coffee chain, has closed one of its Vancouver cafes. The reason cited for the closure was vandalism and decreased sales.

    dailyhive.com

  • Popeyes Chicken, a fast-food chain, is opening a store in Vancouver soon.

    dailyhive.com
• Week of 2023-08-07 to 2023-08-11

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $245M towards widening 2.6km of Highway 1 from Jumping Creek to the MacDonald snowshed, near Revelstoke. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2025.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $250,000 to 33 projects that support community connections and promote healthy lifestyles. Projects seek to address food security, mental health, creating a liveable income and poverty reduction. The community projects includes resources, workshops, webinars and action guides.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $7.2M to provide 14 townhouse-style homes to women and children leaving violence in Kamloops. The Kamloops and District Elizabeth Fry Society will operate the homes and provide annual operating funding of around $67,000.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has purchased Harmony House in Vancouver for $16.4M, allowing the senior residents in the 33-unit facility to remain in affordable rental housing. S.U.C.C.E.S.S, a non-profit social service organization, will own and operate the building, and continue to provide residents with assisted-living services.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government has completed a $5.2M four-storey apartment building with 48 new affordable rental homes for seniors in Vernon. The rentals provide seniors with affordable and accessible living near community amenities. The B.C. government will continue to provide $410,000 in annual operating funding.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $5M in a third round of funding to support the research and development of new technologies in the zero-emission vehicle sector. The new technologies in transportation include electric planes, motorcycles, and boats. CleanBC plans to support zero-emission transportation and clean energy jobs.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Vancouver-based telecommunications company, Telus Corp., announced the company is eliminating 6,000 jobs to cut costs. The cuts will include 4,000 positions at its main Telus business and 2,000 at Telus International. It is unknown how many employees in British Columbia have been affected at this time.

    ctvnews.ca

  • The Métis Nation British Columbia is providing $1.64M over three years to Métis post-secondary institutions to strengthen the Michif language. An additional $145,000 in funding through the Métis scholarship will support Métis students with post-secondary education and skills training.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $5M to the Rick Hansen Foundation to support 15 communities to improve accessibility for people of all abilities. The funding will support the Rick Hansen Foundation BC Accessibility Grants Program and evaluate the accessibility of facilities, upgrades three sites and train municipal staff on accessibility.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $100M for 16 new 2 Billion Trees program contribution agreements to plant 56 million trees across Canada in the next few years, including in British Columbia. The Government of Canada is also providing $63.9M to plant 35 million trees across Canada to help restore wildfire-impacted forests and rehabilitate reserve lands damaged by previous wildfires.

    canada.ca

  • The federal and provincial governments are providing $4M to the Beneficial Management Practices Program to support B.C. farmers and ranchers dealing with climate change and to support food security. Eligible projects include waste management, air quality control, emissions control, soil and riparian integrity, water quality and environmental impact projects.

    canada.ca

  • The B.C. government announced the successful expansion of high-speed internet infrastructure in northern Kootenay Lake this month. The jointly funded $597K project brings reliable, high-speed internet access to more than 330 households and six communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Village of Burns Lake has awarded a contract to Western Industrial Contractors Ltd. to design and construct a new fire hall in Burns Lake. The new hall will be 30 per cent larger and will feature a new training room and locker areas. The $3.4M project is expected to be completed in 2024.

    burnslakelakesdistrictnews.com

  • OEB Breakfast Co., a breakfast chain restaurant, announced plans to open a new location in Victoria this upcoming fall.

    victorianow.com

  • The City of Kimberley has approved a development permit for the construction of two rental four-plexes in Lower Blarchmont. Each building will be two stories and have four two-bedroom units.

    kimberleybulletin.com

  • Forever 21, a clothing chain, is closing its Metrotown mall location in Burnaby soon. Forever 21 closed all Canadians stores in 2019 due to a bankruptcy and re-launched in Canada in 2020 and 2021.

    dailyhive.com

  • Lions Bay Coffee Company, a coffee company, has ceased all operations and closed its Burnaby café in July.

    dailyhive.com

  • Ramen Danbo, a Japanese restaurant, is opening in North Vancouver soon.

    dailyhive.com

  • Gordon Ramsay Burger, is opening at the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver in Coquitlam in the fall. Gordon Ramsay Steak is planning to open in River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond in 2024.

    dailyhive.com

  • The $10M Fraser Mills presentation centre is under construction and is opening in Coquitlam in December 2023. The centre will display the history and latest advancements in sustainable construction methods.

    urbanyvr.com

  • Sinclar Group Forest Products Ltd. has announced the curtailment of its Nechako Lumber mill in Vanderhoof, B.C, affecting 60 employees. The permanent production curtailment for the sawmill will transition it from two shifts to one shift, beginning October 30, 2023.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • The federal and provincial governments and the Hiy? ám? ta S?wx? wú7mesh Housing Society are providing $15M for 95 new affordable homes for families, elders and youth of the Squamish Nation. Construction of the homes is expected to be completed in summer 2024.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Northern Development has approved $947K for five projects in Northern B.C. The funding will be used towards infrastructure projects, including an equipment storage expansion, accessibility upgrades, machinery upgrades, renovations to an existing campground, and the installation of solar lights on city signs and pathways.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • The Governments of Canada and British Columbia, and Bowen Island Municipality will provide over $2.1M in joint funding to improve drinking water infrastructure on Bowen Island. Work includes installing a watermain to connect two water systems, the replacement of culverts, and the installation of new fire hydrants and service connections.

    canada.ca

  • Construction is underway on a six-storey, 99-suite condominium building project in Esquimalt. The mid-rise will include one-to-three bedroom units, indoor and outdoor amenities, underground secure parking, and ground level commercial units that will be available for lease.

    citified.ca

  • The City of Victoria has approved the development of a $17M four-storey mixed-use building in downtown Victoria. The building will be 56,500 square feet, featuring retail and light manufacturing space on the ground floor and a self-storage warehouse in the rest of the building. Construction of the building is expected to begin in 2024.

    timescolonist.com

  • Foundry Victoria, a new mental health and substance-use services centre, is opening in downtown Victoria this September. The centre offers youth aged 12 to 24 with health and wellness services, including mental-health and addiction support, drop-in counselling, physical and sexual health care, youth and family peer support, and social services.

    cheknews.ca

  • BC Housing will be opening 36 units of market-rate rental housing at Quebec Street House in Prince George this September. The building will offer studio, 1- and 2-bedroom units for low-and-middle income households, with preference for those who work in Prince George or surrounding communities.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The Hummingbird Lodge and Campground located at the Whitewater Ski Resort in Nelson is set to open in August. The new campground offers a 2-bedroom private suite, RV and forest tent camping, addressing the growing need for summer camping in the region.

    thenelsondaily.com

  • Northern Development has approved $947K for five projects in Northern B.C. The funding will be used towards infrastructure projects, including an equipment storage expansion, accessibility upgrades, machinery upgrades, renovations to an existing campground, and the installation of solar lights on city signs and pathways.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca

  • Northern Development has approved $947K for five projects in Northern B.C. The funding will be used towards infrastructure projects, including an equipment storage expansion, accessibility upgrades, machinery upgrades, renovations to an existing campground, and the installation of solar lights on city signs and pathways.

    northerndevelopment.bc.ca
• Week of 2023-07-31 to 2023-08-04

  • Sungiven Foods, a grocery chain, opened a third Burnaby location in July. Sungiven has several locations in Metro Vancouver.

    dailyhive.com

  • The B.C. government is providing $480,000 in the BC Land Matching Program for 2023-2024, which has leased more than 4,500 hectares of land for food production. The program is delivered by the Young Agrarians resource network for farmers and matches new farmers with land to help grow existing farms and support B.C.'s food security.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • The B.C. government is providing $7M to the Immigrant Employment Council of B.C. (IEC-BC) to support programs for newcomers and immigrants entering the Canadian labour market. IEC-BC will provide job seekers with training and metnorship, and help connect them with employers from small to large businesses.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Hoy’s Wonton House, a Chinese restaurant, has permanently closed in July in Vancouver. The restaurant has been open for 40 years.

    dailyhive.com

  • The City of Kimberley has approved a development permit for a three-storey rental apartment complex in Kimberley. The building plan includes 39 units and 40 vehicle parking stalls.

    kimberleybulletin.com

  • The B.C. government has announced a new $30M program that will help Indigenous communities across B.C. build and strengthen local food systems. The Indigenous Food Sovereignty Program will support projects surrounding sustainable and traditional food production, community food security, and infrastructure investments.

    news.gov.bc.ca

  • Saveur, a fine dining restaurant in Victoria, permanently closed this month.

    victoriabuzz.com

  • Wild Wapiti Playschool, a childcare centre in Fernie, opened in June. The facility brings 24 licensed childcare spaces for children aged 1 to 5 years old, and features classrooms and an outdoor nature play space.

    e-know.ca

  • The Crisis Prevention Centre in Prince George has been selected to be a service provider for the 9-8-8 national suicide helpline that will go in effect in November. The crisis centre is planning to hire and train more staff to prepare for the anticipated demand in the upcoming winter.

    myprincegeorgenow.com

  • Habitat Conservation and Trust Foundation is funding $586K towards nine projects across northeast B.C. The funding will be used to purchase, restore, and enhance properties to protect important habitat for B.C.'s fish and wildlife.

    energeticcity.ca

  • The District of Houston has agreed to lease land to the Dze L’Kant Friendship Centre Society to build a daycare centre in Houston. Plans for the centre include care during the day, before and after school care, and pre-school care. Construction is expected to begin in 2024 and be complete by spring 2026.

    houston-today.com