Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre to Create Jobs and Strengthen Local Economy

The Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre (CSBC), a landmark three-story, 10,464 sq. ft. facility at 301 Olsen Road, took new steps last week to build our local economy and create jobs in the community by hosting a Local Trades Fair.  

Once built, the Centre will be a vital gathering place for coastal communities, including ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ (Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations), ʕaaḥuusʔatḥ (Ahousaht), hiškʷiiʔatḥ (Hesquiaht First Nation), Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ (Ucluelet First Nation), tukʷaaʔatḥ (Toquaht Nation), Ucluelet, and Tofino.

Designed to drive social innovation, tourism, Indigenous economic development, climate action, and food security initiatives, the CSBC will provide a welcoming, culturally safe space for research, education, and lifelong learning about the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region. As a regional hub for residents and visitors, it will contribute to a thriving, sustainable local economy, and enhance well-being through innovative programming, positively impacting economic prosperity, cultural vitality, community resilience, and reconciliation.

The CSBC will create both short-term and long-term job opportunities, fostering economic growth in the region. During the construction phase, employment will include:

• 1 full-time site superintendent
• 4 full-time site managers/construction professionals
• 17 part-time design and construction professionals
• 30-50 part-time construction tradespersons and labourers

Upon completion, the Centre will support long-term economic stability by creating four new roles and expanding five positions at the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust (CBT). Additionally, it has the potential to generate 77 new jobs from new and expanded businesses in Indigenous, cultural, educational, and eco-tourism sectors, as well as research, catering, janitorial services, event coordination, and facilitation.

The early February Local Trades Fair recognized the talent and expertise within the community. The event brought together skilled tradespeople and contractors at the CBT office, providing a valuable opportunity for the Naikoon Contracting team and CBT staff to connect with attendees. With over 25 participants, the fair highlighted the strong local enthusiasm for the CSBC project and the community’s dedication to contribute to its success.

"The Biosphere Centre is more than just a building—it’s an investment in the future of this region. By providing a dedicated space for collaboration and innovation, we’re supporting job creation and strengthening our capacity to address key social and environmental challenges." - Rebecca Hurwitz, CBT Executive Director

As the project moves forward, CBT is committed to keep engaging the community, ensuring that the Centre reflects the region’s unique ecological and cultural landscape while maximizing its benefits for local communities.

For more information on the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre visit clayoquotbiosphere.org/the-biosphere-centre/overview or contact Michelle Hall at michelle@clayoquotbiosphere.org.