This past year CCEDA (Cortes Community Economic Development Association) leveraged provincial and federal government grants, available for pandemic relief, and donations, amounting to more than $50,000. This has aided the organization in fulfilling its mission in supporting “actions taken by people locally to create economic opportunities that improve social conditions.“ The organization provides seed money for both social and entrepreneurial enterprises.

CCEDA has evolved gradually, but during the pandemic unforeseen circumstances have provided opportunities, giving the association more resources for community projects and the ability to hire an economic development officer. Government grants have helped raise the profile of CCEDA and private donations have followed.

Rural Cortes Island boasts more than 20 non-profit organizations ranging from conservation efforts to youth programming, family services to a museum with archives, and a diversity of others. Long-time CCEDA Board Chair, Colin Funk, says that over time, the association has helped bring them together collaboratively, reducing competition for resources and funding..

CKTZ News speaks with Colin Funk for details.