Canada – In British Columbia, the provincial government is committing Cdn $7.8 million to promote the use of BC wood overseas, advance wood building systems and products, and expand global markets.

BC Government announced the funding at a national forestry convention in Prince George, alongside Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development.

“Expanding our international markets, especially in Asia, is crucial to the long-term success of BC’s forest sector,” said Ralston. “This funding support opens the door to more trade opportunities for BC companies, and will lead to greater innovation in the industry.”

Through a competitive bid process, 13 industry groups were selected to receive funding and deliver market development, or wood innovation programs, on behalf of government and industry. BC’s contribution is being managed through Forestry Innovation Investment, the province’s market development agency for forest products. The province will cost-share these activities, with additional funding provided by BC industry and the federal government, through Natural Resources Canada.

“Building with wood has many benefits: its lower carbon footprint, its cost- effectiveness and its versatility,” said Donaldson. “The funding announced today will help continue to position British Columbia as a preferred supplier of environmentally friendly forest products.”

Of the Cdn$7.8 million, $5.9 million will be made available for activities targeted at expanding markets for BC’s wood products, with investment priorities that reflect evolving market opportunities in Asia and North America. The remaining $1.9 million will be made available for activities delivered through the Wood First program, which fosters the innovative use of wood and wood building systems in BC through research, education, marketing and capacity building.