Federal Government Invests $6.4 Million in Southern Interiors Business

Southern Interiors’ growing tech sector is getting a boost from the federal government.

International Development Minister Harijit Sajan was in Kelowna, British Columbia, Wednesday morning to announce the launch of two new PacifiCan offices in Kelowna and Cranbrook.

“Kelowna is also kind of a hub for the wider rural area, and we see examples of that,” says Sajjan. “What we want to do now is not only to create economic growth here, but also to attract international business to the region and expand this opportunity.”

PacifiCan is a federal economic development agency focused on helping the people of British Columbia. The agency also announced that, in addition to the new office, investments will be made in numerous projects across the region, including a local company producing biodegradable plastic products.

“PacifiCan funds more than $6.4 million for four other dynamic businesses here in the Southern Interior. We have received over $10,000,” Sajjan said.

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A $190,000 investment was also made in heavy equipment company Vernon’s Great West Equipment.

Fenix ​​Advanced Materials on Trail received $1 million for development of medical imaging and nuclear security technology.

A $1.86 million investment is being made in Valid Manufacturing to support the electrification and production of zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles.

Kelowna Mayor Tom Diaz said the opening of the new PacifiCan office in the city will help build on Kelowna’s growing technology sector.

“Similar to what the Innovation Center has done, this office is trying to establish a space where people can communicate with knowledgeable individuals. It helps us understand the process and make it easier as we work.We are trying to grow our business,” says Dyas.

One of the investment goals is to attract people to the Southern Interior while creating new jobs and economic opportunities.

“We are very strong when it comes to supporting female entrepreneurship. We want to see underrepresented groups like the LGBTQ community. Let’s not, and that diversity part is a big opportunity for us,” says Sajjan.

“The connection with the university and the innovation with the business world is a big opportunity for me.”

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