The RDI engages in social innovation research related to a diverse array of economic, environmental, social, and cultural topics relevant to the Columbia Basin and Boundary regions. Information on major current projects is available via the links below. Past projects are described in our Projects Archive. The RDI also undertakes smaller fee-for-service research projects with a variety of clients. To learn more about our fee-for-service offerings, contact us. 

‘Workforce’ can be generally thought of as those people currently working, or looking for work. Often it’s discussed in relation to a certain sector (e.g., the skilled trades workforce) or geographic area (e.g., Columbia Basin-Boundary workforce). A skilled and engaged workforce is critical to the success of the economy.1 Forecasts from the Kootenay Regional Workforce Table indicate 4,700 new jobs in the Kootenay Development Region by 2020, as well as 18,000 vacancies as a result of retiring workers.

This report discusses the results of a community needs assessment, undertaken to identify challenges and weaknesses that may act as barriers to newcomers and immigrants and to provide information that will help local communities and stakeholders work towards more welcoming and inclusive communities.