Nechako, British Columbia
The Nechako region extends from the centre of the province up to the Yukon border and is separated from the Northeast region by the Rocky Mountains. It is a large and beautiful natural resources haven with mountains, glaciers, valleys, and plateaus. A long history of ranching is complemented by local machinery manufacturers innovating and expanding into new markets, such as agri-technology. Connected transportation and communication networks support its prosperous forestry, mining, agriculture, and tourism industries. These raw material sectors support innovative and emerging industries, including pellet operations, bioenergy facilities, and value-added wood manufacturing.
Regional Advantages
NORTHERN INDUSTRIES INNOVATION FUND
Provides funding for SME’s in eligible industries for applied research and development, new or improved products, and services and testing of innovative technologies.
NORTHWEST BC’S BUSINESS HUB
With a local trade area of 25,000 and a regional market of more than 300,000 Smithers serves as the professional services hub for Northwest B.C.
WELL DEVELOPED AGRICULTURE SECTOR
The region offers opportunity in the agriculture sector, with three local abbatior facilities, well-established farmers’ markets, and strong local support of the sector.
GATEWAY TO ASIA & BEYOND
Well positioned along the east/west rail corridor, communities have direct access to the movement of goods from B.C. to North American and Asian.
COMMUNITIES
While the Nechako region is the second-largest development region in the province, it’s home to approximately 40,000 residents, making it the least-populated region of B.C. The main communities are Smithers, Vanderhoof, Houston, Fort St. James, and Burns Lake, with many municipalities, villages, and townships adding to the population. From large employers in the resources sector to small-scale entrepreneurs and innovative social enterprises, this region has a strong, resilient economy. Find out more about economic opportunities in this region:
Economic Development Organizations
FIRST NATIONS
Mining, forestry and agriculture play a large role in most parts of the Nechako region. Outdoor tourism is an emerging industry.
Development corporations— owned collectively by aligned First Nations or by individual First Nations— are the primary vehicles by which First Nations pursue and advocate for sustainable economic development.
Economic Development Associations
Regional Profile
Educational Institutions
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.
Coast Mountain College is an accredited post-secondary institution that serves the rich and diverse communities and learners of B.C.’s beautiful northwest region, including a regional campus in Smithers.
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.