1st Nations-led Iskum Investments consortium proposes government loan guarantees and long-term capital investments to secure the future of British Columbia's coastal forestry sector.

The coastal forestry sector in British Columbia faces challenges, including job losses, aging mills, and dependence on old-growth forests, contributing $2.64bn in government revenue for essential services in 2022. First Nations communities, who hold significant forest tenures, can be key players in the future of coastal forestry, as they have demonstrated successful forest management and large-scale investments. Iskum Investments, a consortium of over 20 First Nations, has been formed for equity investment beyond forest tenures and invites governments to collaborate, offering solutions such as government loan guarantee programs and long-term capital investments to secure the future of the wood products business.

August 24, 2024
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