INFORMATION RELEASE

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) and the City of Penticton are partnering to strengthen economic development across the region through a new Regional Economic Development Collaboration.

The partnership establishes a Regional Economic Development Coordinator position to support coordinated economic development activities across the South Okanagan-Similkameen. The initiative is being delivered through a three-year pilot program, guided by a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the RDOS and the City of Penticton.

This collaborative approach reflects the reality that economic activity, labour markets, and investment extend beyond municipal boundaries and benefit from strong regional coordination.

Through this partnership, the RDOS and the City will work together to support business retention and expansion, attract investment, pursue funding opportunities, and advance a coordinated regional economic development strategy.

The RDOS has applied for provincial grant funding through the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP) and the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior (ETSI-BC) to support implementation of the pilot, alongside other funding sources and cost-sharing between partners.

The initiative includes a joint governance model and advisory panel to guide priorities, ensure accountability, and align with both RDOS Board and City of Penticton Council direction.

Benefits for residents and businesses 

• Stronger support for local businesses through coordinated business retention, expansion, and regional collaboration 

• Improved access to grant funding and investment opportunities through increased regional capacity 

• A more competitive regional economy with a unified approach to attracting investment and supporting workforce development 

• Better coordination across communities to align priorities, reduce duplication, and strengthen partnerships 

• Strategic regional planning and data tracking to support informed decision-making and long-term growth 

• A single point of contact for businesses and investors seeking information or opportunities in the region 

“This partnership is an important step toward strengthening economic development across the south Okanagan-Similkameen,” said RDOS Board Chair Mark Pendergraft. “By working together, we can build capacity, attract investment, and support businesses in a way that reflects the shared nature of our regional economy.” 

“Penticton is proud to partner with the RDOS on this initiative,” said City of Penticton Mayor Julius Bloomfield. “A coordinated regional approach will help strengthen our competitiveness, support local businesses, and expand market opportunities beyond municipal boundaries, positioning both our community and the region as a strong place to live, work, and invest.”

The Regional Economic Development Coordinator will support both Penticton and surrounding communities, complementing existing economic development efforts while enhancing regional alignment and efficiency. 

The three-year pilot program will allow both organizations to evaluate the effectiveness of a shared regional model and consider long-term opportunities for economic development across the region. 

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Media Contacts:

Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen
RDOS Communications
250-490-4148
Toll-free 1-877-610-3737

City of Penticton
communications@penticton.ca
250-809-5623