As we step into the new year, the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust (CBT) is proud to share a significant progress update on the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre (CSBC), a community project grounded in local priorities, shaped by public input, and fueled by a shared commitment to a stronger, more resilient region.
Building permit in hand: we are ready for the next phase!
We are thrilled to report that CBT has the building permit in hand from the District of Tofino, which is a major milestone that moves the CSBC from vision to implementation. Permits don’t just represent technical approval; they represent readiness. This step confirms that the groundwork is in place and the project is positioned for the final stage of investment and construction.
$12.5M secured: a shared investment in the entire region!
To date, we have successfully secured an extraordinary $12.5 million in investments toward the CSBC. This is not funding for a single organization or a single town; it is a shared investment in the region.
The Biosphere Centre is being built for community, by community. It will serve as a place where residents can gather, learn, build skills, strengthen cultural connection, access programs that support well-being, and grow local solutions—together.
Years in the making: community-led from the beginning
This milestone has been a long time coming and it reflects collective effort. CBT has undertaken extensive community engagement to ensure the Biosphere Centre is responsive, inclusive, and rooted in local needs. That includes:
Years of community input to shape the vision, services, and priorities of the Centre
A dedicated volunteer Development Committee and Board of Directors, providing guidance, connections, and steady leadership
Multiple open houses and public touchpoints, where community members helped refine what this Centre should be and who it should serve
This project exists because people in this region have consistently shown up: offering ideas, voicing needs, contributing expertise, and pushing the vision forward.
What’s next
With the building permit secured and $12.5M invested, our goal is clear: secure the remaining funding and begin construction in 2026.
We have been working with the province to secure a matching gift to the federal investment, building on previous grants from Mass Timber and REDIP.
A spring investment would ensure construction can begin and serve the needs of our community, as well as provincial goals to build the regional and provincial economy.
How you can help move the campaign across the finish line
This is the moment when community momentum matters most. If you’ve been wondering how to support the Biosphere Centre campaign, here are a few high-impact ways:
Tell your MLA this project matters
Make a donation to help close the remaining funding gap
Open a door: Introduce us to someone who may want to invest in a legacy project for the region (a donor, business leader, foundation, or funding partner)
Go for a beach walk with Michelle: If you’re curious, considering support, or want to explore how your values might align with the project, let’s talk
To connect directly, email Michelle Hall at michelle@clayoquotbiosphere.org.
Thank you for being part of a region that believes in building lasting infrastructure that strengthens community well-being, cultural connection, learning, and resilience. The Biosphere Centre is moving forward, and we’re grateful to be walking this path with you.
