FREE Programs to Help You Pivot & Recover:

Two response programs launched in April with support and funding from Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICET) are available to help the tourism sector and other enterprises with rapid recovery in the face of economic and operational challenges. VIEA featured both in our “Keeping Good Company” – COVID-19 Video Conference Series. 

Digital Economy Rapid Response Recovery Program (DER3)
This is a free service and is open to individuals or businesses living or working on Vancouver Island (North of the Malahat), the Southern and Northern Gulf Islands, and Sunshine Coast. DER3 offers one-to-one business and technical consultations for businesses that are considering entering or expanding their online presence or putting technology-based tools in place to better serve their needs. When required, the program will also match businesses with regional service providers who can deliver contracted solutions. 

The program is for any type of business in any sector (examples include: retailers, artisans, makers, agricultural, commercial wholesalers, restaurants, tourism or non profits) who want or need to pivot and “get more digital”. In addition to small and medium-sized businesses, the program is looking for Digital Service Providers (DSP) and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to help support these SMBs. Learn more and register. 

Vancouver Island Coastal Tourism Resiliency Program
This program provides tourism businesses on Vancouver Island (including Victoria), the Southern and Northern Gulf Islands, and Sunshine Coast with meaningful, one-on-one support to navigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, adapt and work towards long-term resiliency . 

Tourism businesses will be paired with a Program Advisor for the duration of their recovery who, through a needs assessment consultation, will facilitate customized support for each business including navigating available federal and provincial aid and access to Program Experts in finance, human resources, legal services and more. A digital resource hub provides regular webinars and additional resources specific to the needs of tourism businesses.

Learn more and register for the program or call 1-855-722-9036, Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm.