The Regional Innovation Chair (RIC) in Rural Economic Development is an endowed research chair established in 2005 through the combined efforts of Selkirk College, the Kootenay-Boundary region and the Leading Edge Foundation through BC’s Innovation Council.
The overarching goals of the RIC are to improve the economic climate of rural communities by:
- Developing capacity in the region for sound decision-making through the provision of relevant research data and analysis, together with related skill and capacity development.
- Assisting in the diversification of the regional economy through the promotion of innovation and technology transfer in existing and new enterprises.
- Supporting provincial and national networks that undertake applied research on the revitalization of high amenity, highly rural communities and regions.
The RIC’s research is based on priority research areas identified by a Regional Advisory Committee, with projects developed in partnership with a range of organizations.
| Research Area | Guiding Question |
|---|---|
| Future proofing rural communities | How do rural communities succeed within a changing climate? |
| Human capacity in small communities | How do small communities build, attract and effectively use human capacity? |
| Economic transition and diversification | How do communities create a resilient regional economy? |
| Relationship building | How can the RIC build relationships with First Nations and Indigenous economic development practitioners in order to add value? |
| Gaps in critical systems | How do rural communities apply innovation to address critical systems challenges? |
Learn more about the RIC's research in her annual report. Connect with RIC Dr. Sarah-Patricia Breen.
Find past research.