Economic Development

The North Coast Regional District (NCRD) is one of the twenty-seven (27) Regional Districts in British Columbia (B.C.), serving a total area of 20,028 square kilometres along the North Coast from Lax Kw’alaams to Hartley Bay and Haida Gwaii (Figure 1). The NCRD is made up of five (5) municipalities (Prince Rupert, Port Edward, Daajing Giids, Port Clements, and the Village of Masset) as well as four (4) Electoral Areas (Areas A, C, D, and E). Communities range from over 13,400 in Prince Rupert to settlements of less than 100, like Dodge Cove and Oona River. There are also nine (9) First Nation communities with traditional and unceded territories in the North Coast region. The NCRD government actively seeks to partner and collaborate with each community.

The North Coast region is rich in natural resources, supporting the regional and Canadian economies through industries like forestry and commercial fishing. Access to a deep, ice-free harbour makes the region a gateway and key transportation hub for moving goods between North American and Asian markets. The availability of land for industrial uses attracts large-scale infrastructure to support emerging industries such as Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) development; while the rugged landscape; designated UNESCO heritage site Gwaii Haanas and rich cultural history continue to attract visitors from around the world. The advantages offered by the North Coast region have, historically and in the present day, impacted regional, national, and global economies.

Sustainable Economic Development Strategies for Rural Areas

Following two years of collaboration with communities and work with Urban Systems; the NCRD has adopted Sustainable Economic Development Strategies to support sustainable growth and economic development in our communities:

Within our region, a number of communities and agencies are encouraging growth and diversity by promoting a favourable business climate and developing investment opportunities. The NCRD is pleased to work collaboratively with other regional economic development partners and initiatives: