February 11, 2009 – Port Hardy, BC. – The Vancouver Island Economic Alliance (VIEA), representing economic development interests on Vancouver Island, is in preliminary stages of designing new communication and regional investment web portal.

 

The project, made possible with funding from Coast Capital Savings Credit Union, aims at providing an online hub for information about Vancouver Island, as well as links to communities, services and resources. The portal will increase the visibility of Vancouver Island’s distinguishing features and amenities to potential investors, as well as provide VIEA’s members with even greater access to information sources, such as studies, reports and community links. 

“This project allows us to communicate more effectively with our members and stakeholders,” commented VIEA Chair Russ Hellberg, “as well as make accessible a wealth of information about Vancouver Island to a wider audience. It is further evidence of VIEA’s commitment to collaborative and innovative efforts to promote sustainable economic development on Vancouver Island.” 
The development of the web portal will occur in two phases. In Phase 1, the development of the new VIEA website as a web portal will take place, while Phase 2 will focus on adding further investment attraction content and mapping capabilities. Impact Visual Communications, located in Nanaimo, has been hired to design the new VIEA website. 

Managing the project for VIEA, Caroline Spira added: “the web portal is one way to enhance VIEA’s mandate, but is also a much needed tool for promoting economic development on Vancouver Island.”  

 
The Vancouver Island Economic Alliance is a successful model of regional collaboration with a focus on branding Vancouver Island, attracting and retaining a sustainable workforce, in addition to promoting initiatives related to transportation, renewable energy, agriculture, aquaculture and advanced technology. Member driven, with representation from the private and public sectors, VIEA works with community leaders to collectively affect positive economic growth throughout the Island.