Squamish is showcased to international diplomats during B.C. Economic Mission
The District of Squamish showcased its economic potential in the areas of the green economy and outdoor recreation technology to over 50 ambassadors, high commissioners and consuls general on Tuesday afternoon, October 1. The event was part of a four-day Economic tour of British Columbia, an initiative led in partnership by the Province of British Columbia and Global Affairs Canada. The Squamish Nation welcomed the delegates and joined in hosting the international guests.
“Squamish’s economic potential shone brightly though this event as local businesses showcased their innovative products and services to our guests,” said District of Squamish Mayor Karen Elliott. “I couldn’t be more proud of our thriving and diverse ecosystem of green builders, clean technology companies, value-added manufacturers, tourism operators, outdoor apparel and recreation technology firms. Our community has not only the potential to benefit through local jobs, but also to make a global impact as we take action to address the climate emergency.”
More than 55 local businesses employing more than 300 staff identify as being part of Squamish’s green economy, and 65 local businesses employing over 350 staff identify as being part of Squamish’s outdoor recreation technology industry. Squamish’s tourism industry is comprised of more than 330 businesses employing more than 2,000 workers.
“It was my pleasure to see first-hand Squamish’s commitment to greening its own activities, and supporting economic growth to help further goals consistent with the Province’s CleanBC Plan,” said Bowinn Ma, MLA for North Vancouver-Lonsdale who addressed the delegation in Squamish. “Together with the Squamish Nation, the Squamish region is poised for investment and collaboration as it capitalizes on the local talent pool and business innovation that stems from a community so driven by its celebration of the outdoors.”
The Economic Mission provided Squamish an opportunity to create relationships with heads of missions representing countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas.
“With Squamish’s availability of industrial and commercial land which is scarce in the Lower Mainland, transportation links including rail and a deep sea port connecting us to overseas markets, our deep talent pool of local residents, access to clean renewable power, and connections to world class educational institutions, this was a significant opportunity to showcase our community and our goals to the international community,” continued Elliott.
The international delegation toured Squamish’s Carbon Engineering and Fraserwood Industries facilities prior to arriving at the CN Roundhouse for a reception which featured an Industry Showcase highlighting Squamish craft beverage producers and businesses from the green and outdoor recreation technology sector. The emcee for the evening was local business leader Kim Stegeman-Lowe of Western Stevedoring and Squamish Terminals.
About Squamish Economic Diversity:
Squamish nurtures an increasingly strong economic ecosystem that draws roots from its deep history and reaches into the future. Tourism, transportation, education, forestry, creative industries and high tech have all contributed to the economic success enjoyed today. Two areas have been identified for growth where Squamish has advantage, and that align with the Squamish brand, goals as a community, and the value placed in protecting the air, land and water on which the community depends. These growth areas are the Green Economy and Outdoor Recreation Technology.
October 3, 2019
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