Tech Island – The best climate for growing your ideas.
About Mount Waddington
Most residents of Vancouver Island North live in the major communities of Port Hardy, Port McNeill, Port Alice and Alert Bay, and the smaller unincorporated communities of Coal Harbour, Holberg, Quatsino, Winter Harbour, Woss, Sointula and Telegraph Cove. The Mount Waddington Regional District covers 20,288.4 square kilometres of northern Vancouver Island and the mainland. The 2021 population of nearly 11,700, 30% of which is Indigenous peoples, has remained relatively stable over the last decade.
Mount Waddington’s economic base is diversified, with over 567 businesses, a labour market of 5,000 and annual industry revenues of approximately $1.1 billion. Key industries include forestry, aquaculture, fisheries, marine industries, mining, health services and tourism. The region is home to an estimated 113 tech sector businesses, which employ about 1,300 workers and generate approximately $407 million annually in industry revenues. The cleantech sector has 39 businesses employing 750 employees and generating $344 million annually in industry revenues. Key players include K&K Electric Ltd., Archipelago Marine Research and Tex Electric Ltd.
Archipelago is a company that helps fisheries, coastal communities, and industry regulators to implement sustainable practices through at–sea and dockside observer programs, electronic monitoring technology, and marine environmental services.
Progressive Diesel Inc. is a business founded in Port McNeill 22 years ago to repair and service Marine and Industrial Diesel engines. It is an expert in engine repair and maintenance for the marine, trucking, construction, industrial industries.
There are opportunities for local entrepreneurs in obtaining financial support to develop and enhance their businesses. Community Futures Lending Program can help with financing.
Land Purchase
Affordable, modern homes are available on Vancouver Island North. Live in the town cores, or on your private acreage. Watch your kids walk to school, or the orcas and minke whales from your back deck. Rent an apartment or buy your dream home. Whatever you want, you’ll find it on Vancouver Island North.
For a list of properties currently available for purchase in the region, visit: North Island Region MLS General Listings. For properties in Port Hardy, visit: Port Hardy Economic Development
If you’re not interested in purchasing, rental properties do become available in the region. Check with the local property managers in Port Hardy and Port McNeill.
General Properties 250-956-4444
Whitecap Ventures 250-230-0346
Lifestyle
The region has a laid-back lifestyle with affordable housing and extensive indoor and outdoor recreation opportunities for all ages. Vancouver Island North has some of Canada’s most beautiful landscapes with abundant wildlife and easy access to beaches, park and trail systems, fishing, camping, boating, kayaking, hiking trails, bike riding, skiing, and community facilities such as a curling rink, swimming pool and reasonable sports times for hockey, tennis, golf, and skating. The community features business and social groups support organizations such as Community Futures, a downtown improvement committee, and economic development staff. It also offers many volunteer opportunities, a good working environment with high level of independence and family-friendly activities.