Deadline: 15-Jan-2026
The Wood First Program promotes the use of wood and innovative wood construction technologies in British Columbia. It aims to position the province as a showcase for wood products across construction, interior design, and daily living.
Funding Details
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Total Funding (2026/27): $2.5 million
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Investment Categories and Allocations:
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Strengthening Manufacturing & Business Capacity: $900,000 – to improve efficiency, competitiveness, and sector capacity
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Research & Innovation: $850,000 – to support new technologies, products, or processes in the wood sector
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Education & Skills Development: $600,000 – for workforce training, professional development, and readiness in the wood industry
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Marketing, Promotion & Outreach: $150,000 – to raise awareness of Wood First initiatives and encourage wood product uptake
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Eligible Applicants
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Industry Groups/Associations: Representing multi-company interests, large geographic areas, or the majority of producers of a species or product category
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Academic & Research Institutions: Universities, colleges, trade schools
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Indigenous Organizations: First Nations regional Tribal Councils and Indigenous non-profit organizations
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Government Entities: B.C. government ministries, agencies, and municipal non-profit organizations
Program Objectives
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Promote the use of wood in sustainable construction and design
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Drive innovation in wood technologies and products
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Enhance skills and workforce capacity in the wood industry
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Increase market uptake and awareness of wood products through marketing and outreach
Project Focus
Eligible initiatives may include:
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Manufacturing process improvements
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Development of new wood technologies or products
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Workforce training, apprenticeships, and educational programs
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Marketing campaigns, promotional events, and outreach initiatives
Benefits
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Strengthen B.C.’s wood sector competitiveness
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Support long-term industry growth
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Drive innovation and research in wood construction
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Build skilled workforce for future sector needs
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Increase market visibility and adoption of sustainable wood products
Application Process
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Confirm eligibility according to FII/Wood First criteria.
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Align proposals with program objectives and investment categories.
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Demonstrate expected impact on innovation, capacity, skills, or market promotion.
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Submit applications according to the Wood First Call for Proposals guidelines before the deadline.
Conclusion: The 2026/27 Wood First funding cycle presents a strategic opportunity for eligible organizations to strengthen BC’s wood sector, advance innovation, enhance workforce skills, and promote sustainable wood practices in construction and design.
For more information, visit Forestry Innovation Investment.
