BC Food Supply Chain:

What types of organizations should be added?

If you’re involved in the food industry in BC, you’re likely a valuable addition to the model. If you fall into any of these categories, the platform has been created with you in mind.

• Producers
• Retailers
• Food related non-profits
• Restaurants
• Farmers markets
• Institutions (ie. schools, hospitals, government departments etc)

What are the benefits to your organization?

This project is being developed to meet the needs of stakeholders in the local food and food transportation sectors. The highest priority is to address inefficiencies in our supply chain and local food production. Besides diagnosing inefficiencies, organizations can expect a number of additional benefits:

• Explore new insights and enhance your understanding of your role in the supply chain. Make informed decisions about the most efficient ways to engage in the flow of food within your community, region, or across the province.
• Promote yourself as a local producer or an organization that supports local food production efforts.
• Gain access to a powerful, evolving tool for tracking your supply chain within your community or region’s context.
• Find collaborative opportunities to improve the efficiency and reach of your transportation, facilitate circular economy practices, and optimize your supply chains.
• Communicate your organization’s needs and priorities to decision-makers aiming to reduce inefficiencies.
• Support researchers and educational institutions focused on improving the local food industry and rural food security.
• Gain access to and inclusion in the BC Food Supply Chain Newsletter. These newsletters will offer updates on the model, highlight various BC organizations, products, and communities, showcase supply chain connections, and share other insights obtained from the collaborative supply chain platform.
• Have your voice heard and contribute to guiding the platform’s development.

Who created the food model?

The platform began with a small test region in southern BC in 2021. Planning, design, and early implementation were a fruitful collaborative effort between TruGIS Web & Geospatial Services, and the Lower Columbia Initiatives Corporation. The project has since evolved and grown, responding to feedback and incorporating greater technical sophistication. The platform now enjoys the support and/or partnership of multiple stakeholders with extensive expertise and experience within the food industry and beyond. These include the University of Guelph, Selkirk Innovates, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, the Boundary Community Ventures Association, the Kamloops Food Policy Council, and the Central Kootenay Food Policy Council. The list of supporters will continue to grow over the next few years of development.

Can I remove my information?

Yes! Organizations can have their information removed from the food model at any time. As with any other component of the project, meeting the needs and expectations of our local organizations takes priority. If you have any questions or concerns, we will be happy to address them within 24 hours. This can include the removal of supply chain links, organization details, or your presence on the models altogether. Feel free to email, support@trugis.ca for assistance.