The Province will help British Columbia manufactured wood products access new market opportunities with $250,000 to promote B.C.’s competitive and sustainable wood products suppliers.

“Wood manufacturing is growing in British Columbia as more forestry businesses retool and expand their facilities, helping make sure we get more jobs for every tree harvested,” Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests, said in a press release. “Having our local manufacturers take center stage in global markets that are increasingly looking for renewable wood products will support highly skilled and good-paying jobs here at home.”

The funding, provided through the Ministry of Forests, is for B.C. Wood to market the province’s wood manufacturing sector in global markets.

“Showcasing and marketing B.C. wood products on the global stage is important work that spotlights the innovation our sector is known for,” said Brian Hawrysh, chief executive officer, BC Wood. “Our recent involvement with First Nations, industry and the newly formed Ministry of Forests’ forest sector transformation team has reinforced the importance of this work as a key strategy in diversifying and strengthening B.C.’s forest economy.”

The need to promote B.C.-manufactured wood products was reinforced by the newly established Value-Added Accelerators, an initiative that is bringing together wood manufacturers, First Nations, forest licensees and the Province. The accelerators are identifying opportunities to grow forestry jobs in high-value wood manufacturing.

The first round of accelerator workshops took place in fall 2023 through four virtual sessions and three in-person workshops, with a total of 564 participants bringing their ideas to the table. Next steps include a series of networking events to promote partnership opportunities and a plan of recommended actions to continue growing B.C. wood manufacturing.

To further support local wood manufacturers, the Province has a Value-Added Manufacturing Program, run by BC Timber Sales, which provides a dedicated, open-market supply of fiber for small and medium-sized manufacturers. Registration for the program is open and businesses are encouraged to apply.