Proposed Partnership
- Kristina Mogensen
- Nov 11
- 3 min read
Delegation to Council - Nov 10 2025
The Nakusp & District Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to fostering a resilient and thriving local economy by supporting our businesses, promoting tourism and agriculture,
and enhancing the overall well-being of our community. A strong partnership between the Chamber and Village Council fosters collaboration, alignment, and shared goals for local growth. By working together, we can better support businesses, attract new opportunities, and create a more vibrant, sustainable community.
Through continued engagement with local businesses and community stakeholders, we recognize there are strong sectors whose leadership and innovation we can learn from and leverage. At the same time, we acknowledge there are critical gaps that require focused attention. These areas are where we believe collaboration can immediately take place.
Tourism Development – Tourism is one of the core drivers of our local economy. Investment in targeted marketing, visitor engagement, and promotion can attract more visitors, increase economic activity, and highlight the unique strengths of our region.
Community Engagement and Event Promotion – Currently, there is no central platform to showcase community events and initiatives. Establishing a centralized hub will enhance visibility, increase participation, and promote Nakusp as a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.
Forestry Sector Support – Forestry remains a significant part of our economic landscape, yet there are gaps in workforce development, sustainability practices, and community engagement. Addressing these gaps will ensure long-term viability, strengthen local employment, and support environmentally responsible practices.
Emergency Preparedness – Many local businesses lack comprehensive emergency response planning, leaving them vulnerable to natural disasters, health crises, or unexpected disruptions. Strengthening emergency preparedness programs will safeguard both the business community and the wider population.
Proposed Project Pipeline
A comprehensive economic development plan would include a community-wide business survey to identify strengths, gaps, and future opportunities; refreshed tourism marketing efforts and potential upgrades to the Visitor Centre; targeted programs supporting the forestry sector; improved emergency preparedness resources for local businesses; development of a centralized event hub or kiosk to promote community activities; and regular roundtables or “Lunch n’ Learn” sessions to encourage collaboration and knowledge-sharing among business and community leaders.
Business and Economic Survey (“Business Pulse Check”) – Conduct a comprehensive survey of all local businesses to identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities. Data will inform strategic planning, help us secure future grants, and guide targeted support programs – Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) studies need to be updated every few years to ensure we are properly responding to our local economy and properly prepare and accommodate its growth.
Tourism Marketing Initiatives – Launch campaigns to promote local spending, support local businesses, and seasonal events. Some improvements, updates or even renovations could be done at the Visitor’s Centre to accommodate increased foot traffic and offer more targeted support to both tourists and locals.
Forestry Sector Programs – Support workforce training and recruitment, sustainability workshops, and community engagement projects that support responsible forestry practices and economic resilience.
Emergency Preparedness Training/Resources – Offer workshops and resources to help businesses create continuity plans, develop response protocols, and build partnerships with first responders.
Centralized Community Event Platform (Kiosk) – Build an online network/hub to showcase events, festivals, and cultural activities, increasing attendance and supporting local vendors. This could become a physical unit held at a physical location (ie The Visitors Centre). Halcyon Hot Springs would like to place a large Kiosk at our visitor centre (at no cost) for advertising opportunities.
Roundtable and “Lunch n’ Learn” Sessions – Host regular meetings with business owners and community leaders to share insights, best practices, and collaboration opportunities.
You can view our presentation below: