British Columbia Expands Support Programs for Workers Affected by U.S. Tariffs

The government of British Columbia (B.C.) is expanding two collaborative programs with the federal government aimed at assisting workers and communities affected by tariffs imposed by the United States. Announced on September 19, 2023, these initiatives will provide crucial support for individuals impacted by U.S. trade policies, particularly those instituted by U.S. President Donald Trump.

The first program, known as Build Your Own Future, originally focused on the forestry sector but will now extend its reach to support workers across various industries. According to a release from the Social Development and Poverty Reduction Ministry, the program is funded through the Northern Innovation Network as part of a three-year initiative. This initiative aims to develop and deliver entrepreneurship training specifically designed for skilled tradespeople and technicians.

Participants in the program will benefit from five-day business boot camps, complemented by one-on-one coaching and mentorship to facilitate their transition into entrepreneurship. Those who successfully complete the training will also be eligible for a grant of $5,000 to assist with startup costs. Sheila Malcolmson, the Minister of Social Development, emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating, “We know that people have been impacted by Trump’s unjust tariffs, so we are taking action to support them. Whether it’s supporting new career training or helping communities adapt to changing economic conditions, these new projects are about putting people first. We’re investing in their ideas and their futures.”

In addition to the Build Your Own Future program, B.C. is also introducing the Rural and Remote Employment Initiatives Fund, a $5 million program aimed at supporting northern and remote regions of the province. This fund, administered through the Northern Development Initiative Trust, is designed to finance labor-market studies that will help communities address the negative impacts of tariffs while also responding to local employment needs.

The Rural and Remote Employment Initiatives Fund will specifically support local governments and businesses in regions such as the Cariboo-Chilcotin, Prince George, and northeastern and northwestern B.C. The first phase of this initiative is scheduled to launch in the fall and will feature two distinct funding streams. The first stream, Labour Market Research Plans, will assist communities in planning for long-term economic resilience. The second stream, Business Advisory Supports, will provide professional services to help businesses adapt to tariff impacts by diversifying and creating jobs.

Both programs will be available in various formats, including online and in-person options. The B.C. government’s expansion of these initiatives represents a significant commitment to supporting affected workers and fostering economic resilience across the province.