Province of British Columbia Invests $1 Million in Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre to Advance Rural Economic Development

Motiv Architects

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
May 22, 2025 

Tofino, B.C. The Clayoquot Biosphere Trust (CBT) is proud to announce a $1 million contribution from the Province of British Columbia through the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP). This major investment signals provincial confidence in the transformative potential of the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre, a $17 million facility now in the construction documentation phase in ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ (Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations) territory, envisioned as a regional hub for learning, innovation, and sustainable development. 

The Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre will serve as a cornerstone for economic resilience on the West Coast, fostering year-round employment, attracting and retaining talent, and nurturing small businesses and social enterprises. The Centre will feature shared working spaces, a research library, education and training labs, a teaching kitchen, and cultural programming that empowers youth, preserves Indigenous knowledge, and supports climate innovation. It will directly support underrepresented and equity-seeking populations in building skills and launching sustainable, community-rooted careers. 

The Centre is being built with the full support of ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ, and its governance model reflects a strong foundation of reconciliation, co-leadership, and long-term regional benefit. Once complete, it will serve as a permanent, culturally safe space for collaboration and economic development, supporting multiple sectors including tourism, conservation, education, and creative industries. 

“The CBT’s vision to develop the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre in Tofino will support long-term economic growth and diversification in the region. The Centre will serve as a hub for economic reconciliation and will provide dedicated space to advance key sectors such as education, training, and tourism,” said Josie Osborne, MLA for Mid Island–Pacific Rim. 

“This investment from the Province of British Columbia brings us one step closer to realizing a shared vision for the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre, a space rooted in community, reconciliation, and opportunity. The Centre will create the conditions for sustainable economic development across the region by providing the infrastructure and cultural safety needed to support education, innovation, and entrepreneurship. We’re deeply grateful for the Province’s leadership and partnership as we move into the next phase of this transformative project,” said Rebecca Hurwitz, Executive Director of the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust. 

To date, 71% of the $17 million capital campaign has been raised. With construction documentation underway, the Centre is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2026. 

This milestone brings the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust closer to realizing its long-standing vision: a central gathering place that supports sustainable livelihoods, community well-being, and a thriving, inclusive coastal economy. 

Media Contact: 
Michelle Hall 
Capital Campaign Lead 
michelle@clayoquotbiosphere.org 
(250) 725-2219