This release was issued under a previous government.
Big Lakes County will benefit from $59,190 in funding through the first CARES intake for its Promoting Diversification and Small- and Medium-Sized (SME) Growth project.
Children’s Services Minister Danielle Larivee made the announcement on behalf of Economic Development and Trade Minister Deron Bilous.
“Leaders in Big Lakes County are focusing on regional approaches to economic growth that create more support for local business. We’ve received an overwhelming response to the CARES program across the province and that means more opportunities to keep working together to build an economy for the future and make life better for Albertans.”
The project will promote business diversification and partnerships, and improve the local business environment by identifying opportunities in key sectors with growth and diversification potential such as energy, forestry, transportation and logistics, tourism, education, construction, health, retail and information and communications technology.
“Small and medium-sized businesses are vital to the economic development and sustainability of not only northern and rural communities, but of Alberta as a whole. CARES funding will showcase the important work being done in our region’s agriculture, forestry, energy, mining and tourism industries to Albertans and to the world. I’m so proud that our government is working with local leaders to strengthen northern and rural communities and I’m excited to see these projects contribute to our region’s growth.”
"CARES is more than funding for important municipal economic development projects. It's a program that has opened doors and has led to hands-on support from many government departments. We are producing great results to grow and diversify our economy by being a part of it."
Following the first CARES application intake in 2016, the program evaluated 88 applications from regions and communities, representing approximately $10.5 million in requested grants. This project is among many throughout the province receiving support through the first intake of the CARES program.
The second intake for the program closed on May 31. The third intake will run from Oct. 1 to Nov. 30, 2017. Eligibility criteria and more information on how to apply are available at www.jobsplan.alberta.ca