Nechako-Kitamaat Development Fund Grants $127,412 for Projects in Vanderhoof and Fraser Lake
APR 7, 2026

The Nechako-Kitamaat Development Fund Society Board of Directors has approved $127,412 for five new projects. 

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The Vanderhoof International Airshow Society was granted $45,000 to help host the 2026 Airshow which will celebrate the District of Vanderhoof's Centennial. A long-standing community tradition  for nearly five decades, the two-day event will take place July 25-26 and promises an action-packed lineup featuring The Yellow Thunder Formation Aerobatic Team, a Microjet demonstration, and the Geronimos superhero skydivers. Attendees can also enjoy unique attractions, including hot air balloon rides, and a simulated aerial dogfight. Early bird tickets are on sale now.

The Nechako Senior Citizens Society received $40,000 for the Connaught Place renovation project. Through this project, a duplex will be converted into a 4-unit supportive living facility for persons with disabilities. 

The Endako Rod and Gun Club was granted $25,000 to build two berms to enhance the safety of the shooting range. This upgrade will ensure that community members, hunters, sport shooters and outdoor enthusiasts continue to have access to a safe, secure facility.

The Vanderhoof Flying Club was awarded $9,912 to purchase a temporary replacement engine for the Flying School instruction aircraft. This engine will enable the flying school to continue offering flight training during a rebuild of the main engine. Founded in the 60's by a group of passionate aviators, the mission of the Vanderhoof Flying Club and Flight School is to inspire and educate aspiring pilots. The school offers comprehensive training programs for private pilot licenses, recreational pilot permits, and commercial pilot licenses. 

In the Under $7,500 Grants Program, Rip'n the North Bike Club was granted $7,500 for the Trail Revitalization project. The grant funds will be used to rebuild jumps, add new trail features, and update wooden structures. The upgraded trails will support year-round outdoor recreation for youth, families, and visitors.

Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth 
“Investing in local projects and infrastructure helps build healthy, resilient communities that bring people together, support individuals with disabilities and improve safety. These local improvements align with the pillars of our Look West strategy to grow the economy throughout B.C. by supporting jobs, strengthening quality of life and sustainable growth across the region.” 

Quinten Beach, Superintendent, Power Operations at Rio Tinto BC Works
“Rio Tinto’s long-standing partnership with the Nechako-Kitamaat Development Fund is focused on supporting initiatives that deliver tangible benefits for communities. The projects announced today respond to local needs, from community infrastructure to recreation and skills development, and reflect the strength of local organizations driving these efforts. We value the role the Fund plays in supporting stable, vibrant communities over the long term.”

Rod Holland, NKDF Chair 
"We are thrilled to invest in these projects that celebrate community, expand recreational opportunities and provide support for our residents. Projects such as these play a crucial role in strengthening the places we call home."   

The next grant application deadlines is July 31, 2026. For more information, please visit http://www.nkdf.org/  
For grant requests under $7,500 NKDF accepts applications on a continuous in-take, with decisions made within two weeks.   

For more information on past projects funded throughout the NKDF investment area please visit http://www.nkdf.org/projects or Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NKDFS

The Nechako-Kitamaat Development Fund Society was jointly established in 1997 with a combined contribution of $15 million by the government of British Columbia and the former Alcan Inc., now Rio Tinto. The Fund’s investment area includes lands impacted by the original Kemano project and focuses on the communities in the Ootsa, Lakes, Nechako and Haisla regions of the north.

The Society encourages applications from local governments, local First Nations governments and legally incorporated non-profit organizations. NKDF invests in projects that create sustainable employment, diversify the economy, and improve the basic infrastructure needed for community stability, quality of life and growth.