Reflecting on 2023
Island Good Milestone: 2023 marked the fifth anniversary of Island Good. We hosted the regional mix and mingles in May and the second annual Island Good Days in June. The VIEA Summit, featured Island Good throughout the two days with a special dinner event that celebrated our island producers and partners.
Transportation Collaborations: The Island Coastal Economic Trust (the Trust) and VIEA disclosed the results of the Island Coastal Inter community Transportation “What We Heard Report.” Conducted through regional engagement in June 2023, the study focused on improving passenger transportation connections, especially in rural and remote areas. Coming out of this study, a new one-time fund was launched to invest in projects enhancing passenger transportation options between coastal communities. The successful applicants will be announced in early 2024.
Summit Success: The 2023 ‘State of the Island’ Economic Summit drew 585 attendees who participated in engaging sessions and networking opportunities. Described as a one-of-a-kind gathering on Vancouver Island, one participant expressed, “The Summit is unparalleled, bringing leaders from across Vancouver Island. I always depart with positivity and valuable insights.”
Digital Transformation: The 9th edition of the State of the Island Economic Report, unveiled at the ‘State of the Island’ Economic Summit in October, introduced a dynamic and interactive digital dashboard format. Susan Mowbray, Partner in MNP’s Consulting Group, presented key highlights at the Summit, ushering in a new era of accessibility and engagement. The dashboard will be further developed over the winter with new features and insights added as we grow the model.
Looking Forward to 2024
Action Lab Next Steps: Stay tuned for a comprehensive report, summarizing 11,000 words captured during the Summit Action Labs. This report outlines a vision for Vancouver Island’s future, emphasizing collaboration with First Nations and Indigenous Peoples.
Strategic Planning Excitement: We are excited to embark on the strategic planning process, aiming to shape a shared vision for the next 3 years. Ideas for Impact will be leading the process which will include comprehensive engagement for our members, partners and collaborators.
Regional Supply Chain Study: Along with our partners at the Nanaimo Port Authority we have chosen a successful candidate for this exciting project. Announcements will be in early 2024 and completion of the VIEA portion will be later that fall. This study combined with the Inter Community Transportation Study (2023) will provide a complete view of our regions transportation logistics for VIEA to work with.
|
Think ‘Island Good’ when Holiday Shopping and send a ‘taste of Vancouver Island’ to friends and relatives anywhere in the world. As Paul Gill, Owner of Island Good Sutra Sauces, has said, “everyone is very happy here [on Vancouver and the rural islands] and when you are making products and you’re happy that transpires into the goods.” Who wouldn’t love a package of local happiness! We are hearing it on the streets and seeing it on social media posts. More than ever, people are wanting to both shop and receive local. The Island Good brand and website is a simple, headache-free way to source Island Good products and retailers. To explore the complete list of Island Good producers and support local go to www.islandgood.ca. Enjoy your Island Good shopping experience and share your Island Good gift packages on social media by using the #IslandGood hashtag. Have an ‘Island Good’ Holiday Season!
|
