The City of Port Alberni, Hupacasath First Nation and Tseshaht First Nation have won two 2025 B.C. Economic Development Awards for their collaboration with Clutesi Haven Marina Uplands improvements.
The winning project includes redevelopment of a portion of land behind the food truck pod at the marina; the land was levelled and several seacans have been installed for seasonal vendors. There will be space for cultural events and live music as well. Clutesi Haven Marina is located on the route tourists take as they head to Sproat Lake and the West Coast. The marina is a busy place for sportfishing as well.
The Clutesi Haven Marina Uplands partnership was funded in part by the First Nation-Municipal Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI).
The BCEDA Economic Reconciliation Award included submissions for partnerships, agreements and activities that advance shared economic reconciliation work. The local partnership won the community 10,000 to 25,000 population category. The Clutesi Haven project was also named the People's Choice award out of all the projects that received awards.
"We are incredibly proud to celebrate the exceptional achievements of local and Indigenous leaders and B.C. economic developers," said Dale Wheeldon, president and CEO of BCEDA.
The award was presented at the BCEDA's annual awards presentation at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre during the B.C. Economic Summit in May 2025.
The BCEDA has presented awards for more than 30 years to its members for outstanding work in supporting their local economies and making a meaningful difference in their communities.
