Northern Development Initiative Trust

From international development in Tajikistan to economic development in Northern B.C., Boqir Sabzaliev’s career has always centered around helping communities move ideas forward.

After coming to Prince George to pursue his master’s degree at UNBC, Bo began noticing Northern Development’s impact across the region and saw a connection to the work he had been doing overseas.

Now, as a Partner Programs Coordinator, he helps guide projects through the funding process and gets to see the community impact on the other side.

Get to know Bo, his journey to Northern B.C. and what he enjoys most about his work in this month’s staff spotlight.
www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca/newsletter/august-2026/

Your workforce is one of your greatest investments.
The Canada-B.C. Workforce Tariff Response Forestry Grant – Forestry Training Fund is designed to help forestry employers build skills, support workforce transition and retain employees through training initiatives.

Swipe through to learn who can apply, what projects may be eligible and how this funding can help your organization adapt to a changing industry.

If this sounds like it could be the right fit for your employees, learn more and apply through our website:
www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca/forestry-training-fund/

This fund is provided by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia

Some of this month's biggest stories start below the surface. From irrigation systems beneath the fairways and the foundations of a community pool, to electrical upgrades that support all things grown, baked and handcrafted at the farmers’ market. Discover the infrastructure helping Northern communities thrive.

See what’s featured in our August newsletter:

📰July highlights
🏊Swimming strong on the Central Coast
🥕More power to the PG Farmers’ Market
⛳Charlie Lake tees up for greener fairways
👥Meet the team: Boqir Sabzaliev
🌱Funding that evolves with the region

Explore more here:
https://www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca/newsletter/august-2026/

NEWS RELEASE: From cultural spaces to housing and economic infrastructure, these projects are helping shape stronger communities across Northern B.C.

Northern Development has committed $576,000 to three community-building projects across central and northern B.C. Funding approved at the most recent Board meeting will support initiatives for Lheidli T'enneh, Williams Lake First Nation and the Town of Smithers

Read the full announcement on our website: https://www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca/news/seniors-housing-greenhouse-and-cultural-amphitheatre-to-receive-grant-funding-from-northern-development/

A great trail network has something for everyone 🚵

With the help of the Gold Rush Cycling Club, Dragon Mountain's trail network is growing with a new intermediate downhill trail designed to help riders build confidence, develop new skills and experience more of what makes this Quesnel trail system special.

Supported through the Recreation Infrastructure program, the project responds directly to community feedback while creating more opportunities for riders of all abilities.

Read the full story:
northerndevelopment.bc.ca/newsletter/july-2026/ -trails-more-adventure-more-riders-for-dragon-mountain

Photo credit: Mahalo My Dude

From all of us at Northern Development, Happy B.C. Day!

Please note that our offices will be closed on Monday, August 3 in observance of B.C. Day.
Our team will return to regular business hours on Tuesday, August 4.

We hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable long weekend! ☀️

📝Three businesses. Three unique challenges. One program helping them plan for what's next.

This Project Spotlight highlights how Business Advisory Supports is helping northern businesses strengthen operations, explore new opportunities and build for long-term success.

Swipe through to learn how Tiamat Solutions Ltd., Gott Energy Ltd. and J&P Machine Works Ltd. are putting expert advice into action.

Learn more about the program at:
https://www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca/funding-programs/partner-programs/rural-and-remote-employment-initiatives-fund/business-advisory-supports/

⏰ Deadline approaching!

Complete funding application packages for all community development programs must be received before midnight on July 31st to be considered for funding. 📩

Community Development programs included in this intake:
- Community Places
- Cultural Infrastructure
- Economic Infrastructure
- Business Façade Improvement
- Main Street Revitalization (Capital & Planning)
- Marketing Initiatives
- Recreation Infrastructure

**Reminder that this will be the final intake for Marketing Initiatives as the program will be retiring.

Learn more and submit your applications through our website!
👉https://www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca/funding-programs/community-development/

🚨$1 million is now available to organizations in the forestry sector and other natural resource industries through the Canada-B.C. Workforce Tariff Response Forestry Grant – Forestry Training Fund.

Companies across Northern B.C. can now apply for funding to support workforce training and transition initiatives that respond to the impacts of tariffs.

Successful applicants may receive funding covering up to 85% of eligible staff wage and training costs, to a maximum of $50,000 per employee and $1 million per organization.

With a limited intake time, be sure to review the program guide, confirm your eligibility and submit your application through the online portal.

Visit our website to learn more and apply.
https://www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca/forestry-training-fund

We are pleased to announce Kurtis Caston as our new Chief Financial Officer.

Over the past five years, Kurtis has helped strengthen the Trust through his financial expertise, leadership and commitment to continuous improvement. His appointment reflects both his deep understanding of the organization and Northern Development's dedication to investing in its people.

Congratulations on this exciting next chapter, Kurtis!

Read the full news release on our website:
🔗 https://www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca/news/northern-development-announces-kurtis-caston-as-cfo/