The British Columbia government has allocated $5.1 million through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund (BCMJF) to support 12 forest-sector initiatives across the province, aiming to create jobs, diversify fibre sources, and advance sustainability in the forestry industry. These initiatives are part of a broader effort that has seen the BCMJF direct over $600 million to forest-product manufacturing, securing more than 3,000 jobs to date.
Cedarland Forest Products in Maple Ridge will receive $1.3 million to install high-temperature kilns and a moulder, enabling it to process underutilized wood species and create 23 jobs. Gilbert Smith Forest Products in Barriere will use $1.1 million to modernize its mill and diversify its product line, generating nine new positions. Advance Lumber in Surrey is set to expand production with $800,000 for new facilities and equipment, creating 15 jobs. Additional highlights include:
River City Fibre LP in Kamloops will receive $600,000 for a de-wrapping station and electric log loader, improving processing efficiency and creating four jobs.
PBS Truss MFG Ltd. in Penticton will receive $520,000 for a new manufacturing facility and specialized equipment, creating 23 jobs.
Kootenay Wood Preservers in Cranbrook will use $450,000 to relocate and modernize its facility, creating nine jobs.
Acutruss Industries Ltd. in Kelowna is receiving $100,000 to upgrade automation for I-joist production, creating 12 new jobs.
Planning initiatives include $50,000 for the Squamish First Nation to conduct pre-construction engineering, while other projects in Burns Lake, Fruitvale, and Lavington are supported to explore new production facilities or modernize existing ones. These initiatives reflect the BCMJF’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability.
Since its inception, the BCMJF has funded 121 capital projects across sectors, committing nearly $128 million, leveraging over $900 million in private and public investment, and creating over 1,800 jobs while protecting more than 2,300 positions. This program is part of a broader strategy to enhance B.C.'s forestry industry and ensure long-term sustainability.