Partnership could result in a coup for the North Island.The Regional District of Mount Waddington is joining
forces with the K'awatsi Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) in a bid to host the 2017 Tourism
Vancouver Island Conference.At their monthly meeting Feb. 16, RDMW Manager of Economic Development
Pat English told the board the cost to host the event would be shared equally and is not expected to exceed
$10,000 for either partner. The partners will also be seeking local sponsors and in-kind donations for the event,
said English."This is a really exciting development actually, because it is done on a full partnership basis,"
English said.The conference will be held in September of 2017. The deadline for proposals is March 2, 2016
and a diction will be made by March 11, 2016."This is an example" of what happens when communities work
together, said Port Hardy Mayor Hank Bood."The proposal requires us to plan for 150 participants," said
Vancouver Island North Tourism Coordinator Joli White in an interview. If their proposal is accepted, "it is a
huge opportunity to direct industry attention to the successes of the region and our supporting businesses,
government agencies and community organizations, White said. "Tourism Vancouver Island estimates that their
conference injects more than $78,000 into the local economy through hotels, restaurants, transportation and
other related activities," she said. "It also brings a high-caliber event with professional development and
networking opportunities for local tourism businesses that may not otherwise be able to travel to participate in
the conference."KEDC was created as a result of a strong community desire to grow opportunities for
Gwa’sala-’Nakwaxda’xw. Its mandate is to bring in revenue, prosperity, jobs, skills and development to the
community.