Deana Pidcock is the new business advisor hired by Community Futures Thompson Country (CFTC) and the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior of B.C. Her role is to serve the rural areas in the North Thompson Valley affected by the downturn in the forestry industry.
“As mills close and access to timber changes the revenue streams, the trickle down into adjacent businesses is affecting the bottom line for everyone in the communities,” explains Pidcock.
”My role is to reach out to small business and see what challenges they are facing, assist in finding solutions to problems, give business owners access to tools and resources they may be unaware of, and provide support by way of one-on-one coaching or referrals to other providers. It is not just for businesses, I can also work with individuals, organizations, and not-for-profits too.”
Pidcock says the service is free and business owners can reach her directly with any questions, ideas, concerns, or to set up a meeting in person.
Part of this program is bringing valuable workshops and seminars to North Thompson communities. The hub is currently located in Clearwater.
The CFTC advisor says she is open to suggestions from communities if there is enough interest, and will consider travelling outside of the Clearwater hub for workshops and informational sessions.
The next workshop is “Business Organization for Easy Tax Prep” on Wednesday, Feb. 21 at 6 p.m. in the Dutch Lake Community Centre. Registration is free.
Some workshops will have registration fees, but Chamber of Commerce members will receive discounted rates.
If you are not a member of your local Chamber, Pidcock advises signing up with the Chamber in your area in either Clearwater or Barriere. You can contact Pidcock at dpidcock@communityfutures.net.
For more information about the Clearwater and District Chamber of Commerce (serving Little Fort to Blue River), go to https://clearwaterbcchamber.com/. For more information about the Barriere Chamber of Commerce, go to https://barrierechamberofcommerce.com/.
The Clearwater and District Chamber and Work BC are hosting the annual Job/Career Fair on March 13, for students and the general public, at the Clearwater Secondary School. Tables are free for presenters; email info@clearwaterbcchamber.com to register.
For more info about Community Futures contact: Deana Pidcock External Contractor for the North Thompson
Email: DPidcock@communityfutures.net Phone: 250-828-8772