July 31, 2021 – The Economic Trust of the Southern Interior has just released its 2021 Annual Report. T
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Backed by ETSI-BC, the Trails to the Boundary Society (TTTBS) are helping nonprofits move beyond grants to build sustainable revenue.
With funding from ETSI-BC, a new feasibility study explored whether the New Denver Visitor Information Centre should relocate to boost traffic or improve its current space. The findings point to a clear strategy for revitalizing tourism in this scenic region.
TThe Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC) first supported the Festival in 2021 to help showcase the area’s food, beverage and other agriculture producers to local businesses and consumers. In 2025, the Trust provided additional support that enabled specialized training and workshops to be added to this year’s festival agenda.
December 9, 2025 – The Southern Interior is getting more than snow this season—it’s getting a boost of economic support. The Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC) has approved over $1 million to support 32 innovative economic development projects across its service area through its Fall Funding Intake.
December 9, 2025 – The Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC) is pleased to announce that its next Funding Intake will launch on Monday, March 9, 2026, and will close on Thursday, April 9, 2026.
December 8, 2025 – The AI for Economic Development Practitioners program hosted by ETSI-BC and led by AI Smart Ventures is now at the halfway mark. The 28 participants work for Chambers of Commerce, Regional Districts and economic development organizations across the Southern Interior.
The first Southeastern BC Agriculture Forum, held in Creston in March 2025, brought farmers, policymakers, and community leaders together to tackle climate challenges and strengthen regional agriculture. Organized by Kootenay Employment Services with ETSI-BC support, the event focused on resilience, sustainability, and collaboration, setting the stage for ongoing partnerships and future forums.
Silver Star Resort has reimagined its conference centre with modern upgrades and dynamic spaces, creating a premier destination for meetings and events. This transformation positions the resort for year-round success and regional economic growth, thanks to the dedicated support and investment provided by ETSI-BC.
The West Kootenays is a vibrant rural area with plenty of opportunities for business, but workforce shortages have become a serious barrier business growth. An in-depth study done in 2024 showed 1,270 jobs needed to be filled annually due to vacancies and projected growth.
To address this need, the Lower Columbia Community Development Team Society, with support from Community Futures Central Kootenay created the first professional recruitment firm in the region. Funding support from the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC) enabled local human resources consultant Mia Gardiner to create a business plan for the West Kootenay Recruitment Agency (WKRA) and lead its operation for a one-year pilot.
October 16, 2025 – The Fall 2025 Funding Intake offered by the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC) closed on October 9, 2025 with an impressive 45 applications received, and total funding requests of more than $1.6 million.
