Rural Diversification/Community Economic Development
Rural Diversification is defined as an increase in economic activity through the introduction of a new industry or the expansion of an existing industry through new products, new markets, or new processes. Rural diversification is assisted by innovation, human capital, and cluster development.
Community Futures West Yellowhead is commited to ensuring the region has a stable and well-rounded economy. Through entrepreneurship and strong leadership, it is our vision that the "West Yellowhead Region will be a community that is innovative and diversified."
Community Futures West Yellowhead is available to assist businesses, organizations and municipalities in the development of projects and plans which will help to diversify our region. These services could include:
- Strategic Planning
- Board Development
- Business Plan Writing
- Partnership Development
- and, Community Economic Development Training
Please contact if you would like more information about any of our services.
Rural Diversification Initiative Funding
Rural Diversification Funding is available for Community Futures West Yellowhead to apply for in partnership with groups from within the West Yellowhead region. This funding is available for projects that diversify and broaden the economic base of the region. All projects must have the support of industry and the appropriate municipal government(s). Municipal support is required to ensure that each project meets the broader community objectives of both the community and the region. Community Futures West Yellowhead must also be a partner on each project. Community Futures is available to assist in project development, fund sourcing, project writing and on-going project support.
Funding Goals
Rural economic diversification is a process with the long-term goal of building a community that has long-term sustainability, resiliency in the face of change, and a broad economic base with a variety of types of businesses and jobs. As a process, rural economic diversification is community-based and rooted in a strategic analysis of the community’s strengths and advantages. RDI funds will be used to facilitate informed, strategic investment decisions within coherent regional development strategies with a goal of regional competitiveness. All projects funded by RDI will be rooted in a community economic development strategy that is based on the region’s unique strengths and comparative advantages.