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National News
Trump Proposes 100 Per Cent Tariff on Films Made Outside the U.S.
| | In a Truth Social post, Trump framed the move as a response to what he called a "National Security threat," accusing other countries of luring filmmakers away with incentives. The film industry, already struggling with pandemic setbacks, strikes and wildfires, faces further uncertainty. With American films generating billions in exports, the policy could have far-reaching consequences for both domestic and international markets. | | |
Member News
BC Ferries Joins SIPP to Boost Regional Economic Growth
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South Island Prosperity Partnership recently announced BC Ferries as its newest member, joining a broad coalition of more than 70 organizations, including Indigenous nations, municipalities, major employers and educational institutions. BC Ferries, a global ferry operator, plays an indispensable role in connecting coastal communities and supporting the economic fabric of the region through tourism, trade and mobility.
"We’re very pleased to welcome BC Ferries to the South Island Prosperity Partnership," said Aaron Stone, CEO of SIPP. "BC Ferries is not just a transportation provider; it's a critical artery for our regional economy. Their membership strengthens the SIPP alliance and enhances our collective ability to drive sustainable growth, foster innovation and create household-sustaining jobs across Greater Victoria."
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Regional News
295 New Affordable Homes Coming to Victoria
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The B.C. Government recently broke ground on two major housing developments in Victoria, delivering 295 new homes to support low-income renters and individuals experiencing homelessness. A 21-storey mixed-use building on Pandora Avenue will offer 158 affordable rental units and 47 supportive housing spaces, while an eight-storey facility on Discovery Street will provide 90 supportive studio apartments.
Funded by nearly $100 million in provincial investment, these projects include community spaces, potential childcare services and wraparound support for residents. The Pandora development, managed by the Capital Region Housing Corporation, is set for completion by 2029, while the Discovery Street project, operated by Our Place Society, will open by mid-2027 with meals, counseling and 24/7 support.
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Member News
Greater Victoria Residents Strongly Support Tourism, New Survey Shows
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A recent survey by Destination Greater Victoria (DGV) revealed nearly all Greater Victoria residents recognize the importance of tourism to the regional economy, with 99 per cent of the 1,450 respondents affirming its value. The survey by Discovery Research shows 60 per cent of locals believe visitor levels are "just right," while nearly 30 per cent would welcome more.
Residents also overwhelmingly agree that tourism plays a vital role in supporting jobs (93 per cent) and local businesses (91 per cent), reinforcing the industry's significance to community prosperity. DGV’s Economic Impact Report underscores this sentiment, highlighting that tourism supports around 25,000 jobs and contributes $3.5 billion annually in business sales, with about one in four local families benefiting directly or indirectly.
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Municipal News
Esquimalt Surges Past Housing Targets Amid Building Boom
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The Township of Esquimalt recently exceeded expectations in housing development, with more than 3,000 new units approved and 800 expected to be completed in 2025 alone, which is ahead of the province’s five-year target of 754 units. Mayor Barb Desjardins says the township is now experiencing a development surge that’s revitalizing the population and commercial prospects.
As more young families and professionals move in, the demand for restaurants, retail and services is expected to increase, particularly along Esquimalt Road. Once a quiet Navy town, Esquimalt is becoming a vibrant urban centre with changing demographics and new opportunities on the horizon.
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Municipal News
$750K Donation to Launch North Saanich’s First Farm Hub
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North Saanich’s agricultural community is set to receive a major boost due to a $750,000 donation from resident Greg Warner. Announced at an April 28 North Saanich council meeting, the funds will go toward building a farm hub processing facility to address gaps in the local food system.
The modular facility will provide space for processing, storage and distribution, helping small and mid-sized farms scale up and compete more effectively. With over 90 per cent of Vancouver Island’s food currently brought in from elsewhere, the hub could help shift toward a more resilient, local food economy. The district will now build on an existing feasibility study, with council unanimously supporting further exploration of the project.
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Did You Know?
"Victoria recently ranked as one of the top 10 most walkable cities in the world - o.canada.com
| | Victoria Rising Partners with VICA to Attract Construction Workers to Vancouver Island | | |
The SIPP-initiative Victoria Rising is excited to partner with the Vancouver Island Construction Association (VICA) to highlight Greater Victoria and Vancouver Island as a top destination for construction and trades professionals.
The Victoria Rising team worked with VICA to create a short video that tells the inspiring story of Quatswee “Alexandra” Adrian, an Indigenous woman who started her construction career in carpentry but due to an injury is now retraining to work in excavation.
The video, launched by VICA at their recent Vancouver Island Construction Conference, is featured on VICA’s recruitment profile on Victoria Rising.
Victoria Rising is SIPP’s brand platform designed to attract talent, business and investment to Greater Victoria.
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SIPP News
Help Shape Greater Victoria’s Future in SIPP's Survey and Win a $200 Gift Card!
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Want to shape a stronger, more resilient economy in Greater Victoria? The Rising Economy Taskforce is tackling economic challenges head-on, ranging from trade uncertainties to new opportunities in emerging industries. Now, we need your insights to drive real change.
By taking just 10 minutes to complete our survey, you'll directly help:
- Guide investments in key sectors (like life sciences & the blue economy)
- Strengthen local jobs, businesses and innovation
- Build an economy that works for everyone
- Plus, you could win a $200 gift card to a local business!
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Indigenous Prosperity Centre News
Indigenous Youth Lead the Way at Economic Development Conference
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The SIPP-initiative Indigenous Prosperity Centre (IPC) is proud to have recently hosted the first ever Indigenous Youth Conference on Economic Development, a powerful gathering made by Indigenous youth for Indigenous youth, with direction from our Youth Steering Committee.
This event was born from a vision to create space for connection, creativity, learning and empowerment, all centered in culture, community and future-building. We are deeply inspired by every young person who showed up with heart, ideas and strength.
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What We're Working On:
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SIPP recently hosted its second Rising Economy Taskforce meeting on April 28. Featuring over 40 members across various sectors, this team is transforming crisis into opportunity in Victoria by assessing risks and stabilizing the economy. The next meeting is being held on May 26. - Rising Economy
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We’re proud to sponsor the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce Business Leaders luncheon featuring the Honourable Diana Gibson on May 13. This event will feature a Q&A co-hosted by Chamber CEO Bruce Williams and South Island Prosperity Partnership CEO Aaron Stone. - Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
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📝 Lights, camera, action: Sidney buzzing with film production - Oak Bay News
⚡ B.C. launches 2nd call for power, $12M fund for clean energy technologies - Sooke News Mirror
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