About
North Kootenay Lake Economic Development
The Community
North Kootenay Lake is a stunning stretch of Kootenay Lake featuring small, charismatic communities nestled in the mountains, full of character, charm and opportunity. This is home to entrepreneurial and self-determined residents who take pride in community and pleasure in natural beauty.
The remote setting creates unique advantages for people wanting to slow things down and enjoy life, while the distance to global markets creates unique economic challenges for entrepreneurs wanting to call North Kootenay Lake home.
The key to success in North Kootenay Lake is working together to turn shared problems into shared solutions through community-led economies of scale.
VISION
Residents in North Kootenay Lake have the highest quality of life as a result of a thriving local economy. They are engaged in activities that shape the future, creating diverse job and investment opportunities, and laying a stable foundation for economic success. A sustainable grid powers resilient, locally owned businesses that add value to natural resources, put food on local plates, share the natural beauty with visitors and lead the world’s digital economy. Diverse housing and childcare options make it ideal for young families who contribute to the long-term sustainability of community pride for generations to come.
MISSION
Build an innovative approach to economic development that is driven by local leaders, leverages regional partners and empowers local businesses that embrace the values of resilience, self-reliance, community and natural beauty.
The key to success in North Kootenay Lake is working together to turn shared problems into shared solutions through community-led economies of scale.
Coordinated Leadership
Economies of Scale
Market-Based Solutions
Leveraging economies of scale to support entrepreneurs and community partners in the development of market-based solutions that are self-sustaining and create community prosperity.

The Commission & Key Partners
Chair: Suzan Hewat
Chair: Aimée Watson
Mayor: Suzan Hewat
Kelvin Saldern
Manager, Community Relationships West
Admin: Pat Desmeules
Admin: Nichol Ward
Richard Toperczer
Regional Manager | Rural Development
Andrea Wilkie
Executive Director