Report: Greater Victoria's Life Sciences Sectors | Circular Economy Accelerator Program | Food Hub Feasibility Strategy
REPORT | Greater Victoria’s Life Science Sectors: An Assessment of Assets, Capabilities & Opportunities
The South Island Prosperity Partnership (SIPP), in collaboration with the District of Saanich, has commissioned an in-depth report on Greater Victoria’s life sciences sector, highlighting the region’s potential as an emerging hub for innovation and entrepreneurial growth.
As identified in Saanich’s Economic Development Strategy, life sciences is a key sector poised for continued expansion and an integral part of the community’s economic vision. The report’s findings provide valuable insights to help the District support life sciences entrepreneurs and companies.
The report, conducted by Qatalyst Research Group, offers a comprehensive analysis of the region’s life sciences ecosystem, outlining its strengths, challenges, and opportunities for future growth. It also highlights key challenges, and several recommendations aimed at overcoming them in support of this high-potential sector.
Read the full media release
Read the full report: Victoria’s Life Science Sectors: An Assessment of Assets, Capabilities & Opportunities
The Circular Economy Accelerator Program
We are excited to announce a new opportunity for Saanich businesses to enhance sustainability and boost profitability through the newly launched Circular Economy Accelerator Program, brought to you by Project Zero.
The District of Saanich has proudly partnered with Project Zero to offer this innovative program designed to help local businesses integrate circular economy principles into their operations. Our goal is to support businesses in their journey towards environmental responsibility and economic growth.
Program highlights:
- Hands-on support: tailored assistance to help businesses adopt efficient circular economy practices.
- Waste and emissions reduction: practical tools and expert advice to minimize environmental footprint of standard business operations.
- Revenue increase: effective strategies to enhance bottom line numbers through green practices.
- Innovative practices: opportunities to develop and implement groundbreaking methods to boost business operations.
To learn more about the program, please visit: Circular Economy Accelerator Program
The District of Saanich Food Hub Feasibility Study
The District of Saanich has received funding from the BC Ministry of Agriculture to conduct a Food Hub Feasibility Study to investigate a potential food hub in the District of Saanich. This work is being conducted by the consultant, Greenchain Consulting.
Food hubs refer to shared-use food and beverage processing facilities that offer food and agriculture businesses access to commercial processing space, equipment, expertise, and resources to support business development and growth. There is a network of food hubs across BC which vary in size and scale, depending on the needs and capacity of the regions in which they are located. Locally, there is one currently being established in the Capital region – the Victoria Community Food Hub.
The scope of work in the Food Hub Feasibility Study will include an assessment of the viability of a shared-use food processing facility for food and beverage producers and processors (target clients) in the areas of processing, food safety, training and education, research, business development support, facilities, storage, and equipment. The shared-used processing facility would integrate food processing and innovation activities and services within the District of Saanich.
The project will include data analysis and collection, stakeholder engagement, the creation of an ongoing steering committee, an interim and final feasibility report, and a presentation to the District. The project deliverables are:
- A database of regional stakeholders including potential food hub users, funders, landlords, advocates, food hub operators, service providers, and other partners.
- On-site and in-person stakeholder interviews to understand the needs of local food businesses that the food hub could potentially address.
- An interim report assessing the local food economy and identifying the needs of local food businesses.
- Presentation to the District on a recommended model, layout, and partnerships.
- A feasibility study that provides a feasible food hub business model for the Saanich area.