FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Community Futures Launches Rural Community Immigration Pilot to Address Workforce Challenges

Vernon, BC – April 22, 2025 – Working with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Community Futures North Okanagan and Community Futures Shuswap is pleased to announce the launch of the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) program in the North Okanagan/Shuswap region. This initiative aims to support economic development by strengthening the region’s capacity to attract, integrate, and retain a skilled workforce. RCIP will play a vital role in addressing persistent and emerging labour market needs and assist with tackling demographic challenges in our communities.

The pilot program focuses on attracting foreign workers to fill jobs in five broad categories crucial to the local economy:

• Health
• Education, law and social, community and government services
• Sales and service
• Trades and transport
• Manufacturing

The first intake window for prospective candidates will be from May 12 to May 26, 2025. A comprehensive schedule outlining the full application process and timelines is available on the RCIP program website https://rcipnorthokanaganshuswap.com/

Local employers will play a central role in the RCIP program. To participate, employers must become designated and participate in mandatory training to become approved. Once designated, they will be eligible to apply on behalf of qualified employees or candidates.

“This pilot represents a significant opportunity to address the critical labour shortages facing our region,” says Leigha Horsfield, Executive Director of Community Futures North Okanagan. “By attracting skilled workers and supporting their integration into our communities, we can address critical labour shortages and grow the workforce in the North Okanagan/Shuswap.”

Community Futures encourages local employers to visit their website for detailed information about RCIP, including eligibility criteria, and application processes: https://rcipnorthokanaganshuswap.com/

Further information about the Rural Community Immigration Pilot program can be viewed here: Canada launches Rural and Francophone Community Immigration pilots – Canada.ca

About Community Futures North Okanagan:

Community Futures North Okanagan is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting small business development and fostering economic growth in the North Okanagan region. Through various programs and services, they empower entrepreneurs and contribute to building vibrant and resilient communities.

Contact:
Jenna Kiesman
Marketing & Community Engagement Coordinator
jennak@futuresbc.com
250545-2215 ext. 214