The Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the addition of Fiona McQuillan as the new Rural Business Advisor for the Chamber's Rural Business Retention and Expansion Project. With deep roots in the community, a creative mind and a strong history of outreach and engagement, McQuillan brings a unique combination of marketing, entrepreneurial, and rural experience to this important new role.

Funded through the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program, the project focuses on strengthening the rural economy of Electoral Area C, which includes Merville, Dove Creek, Black Creek and Saratoga Beach. McQuillan will lead outreach efforts, organize small business training sessions, build local business networks and develop community-focused initiatives like wayfinding strategies and workforce development partnerships.

"With her background in community-building, communications, and rural business, Fiona is a perfect fit for this work," says Tracey Clarke, Executive Director of the Comox Valley Chamber. "She understands the importance of local connections and brings both a strategic and grassroots lens to supporting small businesses."

McQuillan is the owner-operator of Fireweed Farmstead in Merville and has worked in marketing and communications for the Sid Williams Theatre Society, the City of Courtenay and her own design firm, Geodesignworks. She also serves on the Merville Community Association Board of Directors, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to rural life and local collaboration.

"I'm excited to meet the entrepreneurs, producers, and business owners who make this region vibrant," says McQuillan. "There's so much knowledge and creativity here in Area C -- this project is about supporting those strengths and helping our rural economy thrive."

Rural business owners can expect to see McQuillan out and about this fall connecting with interest holders, listening to challenges and co-creating solutions that build resilience, community and opportunity.

The project's major launch includes a series of educational workshops held at the Black Creek Community Centre this fall. Business Builder Bootcamps will run each third Thursday of the month.

To reach out directly, contact McQuillan at [email protected].

For more information about the project and to stay informed about upcoming workshops and events, visit www.comoxvalleychamber.com.