Region Innovation Chair
The Regional Innovation Chair in Rural Economic Development was formally established on November 15, 2006 to conduct a program of research in rural economic development. The work of the Chair is based on community needs and on partnerships with local and regional organizations and businesses. The Selkirk Geospatial Research Center provides complementary expertise, access to data and state-of-the-art GIS and other research tools and skills.
RIC Program Goals
a) Work with organizations in the Kootenay & Boundary region to improve decisions on matters related to economic development by providing relevant research data and analysis, and related training, skills and organizational development.
b) Assist in diversification of the regional economy through promotion of innovation and technology transfer in existing and new enterprises and initiatives.
c) Support and participate in provincial and national networks that undertake research on the revitalization of rural communities and regions.
RIC Program Objectives (First Five Years)
A: Enhance the culture, skills and capacity to develop and apply information and research outcomes to key decisions.
We have established a community based Advisory Committee to provide input into the activities of the Chair and develop a collaborative strategic plan for research, training and education related to economic development in the region. We will develop a better understanding of economic trends and possibilities within the Kootenay & Boundary region in regards to diversification, key drivers, opportunities, and the environment needed to encourage economic development.
B: Provide data and analysis related to key decisions that will be made by public and private sector organizations.
We will gather and analyze data related to the information needs of local and regional economic development initiatives and partner organizations. We will establish a data base, and use it to assess and make available information on key aspects of the regional economy including key drivers, strengths, weaknesses and gaps in sectors and services. In collaboration with the Selkirk Geospatial Research Centre, we will develop tools data and analysis for decision-making in the municipal, not for profit and private sectors.
C: Help in the development of a network for research on regional and rural economic development.
We are participating in the rural economic development network with key BC and other Canadian post secondary educational institutions and other economic development organizations. We are participating in national or provincial committees, conferences or other activities related to the needs and priorities of the Kootenay & Boundary region.
Impacts and Outcomes
- Better understanding of the challenges faced by rural areas, leading to more effective policies, programs and regulations;
- Greater capacity within regional and local organizations involved in economic development;
- Better informed decisions by both public and private sector organizations;
- Assist in development of strategic directions for investment and economic development within the region;
- More innovative, more effective and greater levels of public and private sector investment;
- Diversification and innovation in telecommunications and the knowledge sectors;
- More employment or, at the very least, stabilizing existing employment levels and security of income;
- Greater economic diversity within both regional and local economies.
Contact: George Penfold, M.Sc., MCIP
Regional Innovation Chair for Rural Economic Development
Selkirk College
301 Frank Beinder Way
Castlegar, B.C., Canada V1N 3J1
Tel: 250.365.1434
Fax: 250.365.1260
Email: George Penfold
