Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICET) has launched the THRIVE Small Capital Program to help stimulate and promote vitality in downtown areas across the Vancouver Island and Coast region. The program can contribute up to 100% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of $50,000, for small scale capital projects that bolster short to medium-term renewal of downtown or commercial area vitality.
Successful THRIVE projects must create new outdoor public amenities or areas that contribute to increased business district vitality, visitor attraction, resident engagement and quality of life. Projects that provide broad public benefits, foster inclusivity and accessibility, and leverage unique community strengths, assets, history or culture will be prioritized. Funding will focus on new, innovative, concept-driven initiatives.
“This past year has forced a rethink, within our communities, of our traditional business models and community planning approaches,” says ICET Board Chair Aaron Stone. “The new THRIVE program is a timely response to the growing need for proactive, collaborative and innovative ways to reinvigorate and sustain our communities’ energy.”
The ICET THRIVE program is open to local governments, Indigenous communities and non-profit organizations located in the ICET service area. The first application intake is open now until July 9. The second application intake will run from July 19 to September 17. For more information, including guidelines and application forms, please visit the ICET website.
All interested applicants are strongly encouraged to attend a 30-minute Zoom information session prior to submitting an application. Pre-register for one of the following meeting dates: June 1 (12-12.30pm) or June 9 (12-12.30pm).
Photo Credit: Tourism Cowichan
