The Fernie Chamber of Commerce announced today their plan to launch a feasibility study for the creation of a Coworking and Business Acceleration Centre in the City of Fernie.

The purpose of the centre is to create a collaborative work environment for the 200+ Fernie residents who currently work from home, and entrepreneurs who own a secondary home in the community.

‘For communities like the City of Fernie, where much of the economic activity is driven by small business and community-based organizations, these types of facilities can act as a community hub and play an important role in economic development, through diversification and capacity-building,’ said Patty Vadnais, Executive Director, Fernie Chamber of Commerce.

Over the next three weeks Capasiti Consulting Inc. will connect with local small business owners, freelance workers, remote workers, community-based organizations and property owners to gather data on space requirements and availability. The study will also explore the types business acceleration services local entrepreneurs require to help grow their businesses.

The community is encouraged to add their voice to this important initiative by completing the online survey.

The survey closes May 5th, with the final report and recommendations to be delivered by the end of May.

The feasibility study is being funded through the Provincial Rural Dividend Fund. For more information, please contact the Fernie Chamber of Commerce at 250-423-6868.