Cariboo, British Columbia
Located in central B.C., the Cariboo region is rich in natural resources. Mining, forestry, ranching, and agriculture are key economic drivers here, as are construction, retail, and professional services. Many natural resource industries have head offices in this region where the landscape offers raw materials, and the infrastructure provides access to an adaptable labour force and international distribution chains. A strong economic community development team is supporting local economic growth and stability, working with First Nations, regional stakeholders, small business members and industry representatives.
Regional Advantages
CONNECTED TO THE WORLD
With railways, highways, and airports nearby, the Cariboo region is a great home base, offering reliable and responsive connections worldwide.
URBAN & RURAL
With three main urban centres and a large rural population, the Cariboo region offers the benefits of a large community while still enjoying an idyllic urban lifestyle.
Communities
Located in central B.C., the Cariboo region is an area of vast landscapes and outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities. Resource-based industries such as mining and forestry play a strong role in the area’s economy. The region includes the city of Prince George, a service centre for the northern half of British Columbia.
Economic Development Organizations
First Nations
First Nations communities in the Cariboo have a population of 9,449 (6.12% of the total population), comprised of 17 different communities. Development corporations— owned collectively by aligned Nations or by individual First Nations— are the primary vehicles by which First Nations pursue and advocate for sustainable economic development in this region.
Economic Development Associations
Region Profile
Educational Institutions
The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is a research-intensive public university with campuses across the Cariboo and Northern B.C. regions.
The College of New Caledonia is a comprehensive community college that delivers post-secondary training in health sciences, trades and technologies, business, university transfer, social services, and academic upgrading.
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) has a campus in Williams Lake, bringing multiple career preparation, trades and technology training, and university transfer programs and credits to the region.
Connect With A Regional Expert
Regional experts can help familiarize you with the amenities, infrastructure, and opportunities in each region. They can introduce you to the economic development offices and industry associations that will support the integration of your business into the province.