Economic Development Cowichan and Community Futures are teaming up to help local businesses build their Plan B. The Cowichan region has been selected as one of three communities to take part in a new Business Continuity Planning Program led by Community Futures Central Island. This pilot initiative, funded by the Province of British Columbia through the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP), will help local businesses build resilience and plan for the unexpected.
Whether it’s wildfires, drought, road closures, or economic shifts, disruptions can have lasting impacts on small businesses. This program is designed to help Cowichan businesses create Business Continuity and Crisis Plans so they’re better equipped to adapt and thrive through uncertainty.
Who Should Apply
Community Futures is looking to recruit eight Cowichan-based businesses that either:
- Provide essential goods, services, or expertise to the community, such as grocery stores, trades and construction companies, food producers, transportation and delivery services, health and wellness providers, child and elder care businesses, or environmental service providers
OR
- Have experienced (or are vulnerable to) disruptions like drought, tariffs, or supply chain interruptions, or emergency closures, including farms, retail shops, manufacturers, tourism operators, and service-based businesses.
What’s Included
Selected businesses will receive:
- A guided Business Fitness Test to assess risks and opportunities
- A water audit (for drought-impacted businesses)
- One-on-one coaching sessions
- Peer support from other local entrepreneurs
- Practical tools to protect operations, employees, and customers
- A 6–9 month flexible, structured program (valued at $5,000) offered at no cost
Why It Matters
Participating businesses will gain a competitive advantage with a proactive risk management plan. Business continuity planning can also increase eligibility for funding, loans, and insurance benefits. This program is the first of its kind for rural BC and is a unique opportunity to lead the way in community resilience.
More Details
- Timeline – The program runs from September 2025 through March 2026
- Time commitment – Participants should plan to spend approximately 5-6 hours per month on the program
- Eligibility – All types of businesses are eligible, including non-profits, social entreprises, charities, etc
Spots are limited, and the application window closes on July 15, 2025.
Have questions? Contact Brittany Taylor at edc@cvrd.bc.ca.
This initiative is funded by the Province of British Columbia through the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP), and is delivered by Community Futures Central Island.
