Wood First Program 2026

📖 About the Program

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.

💰 Benefits of the Program

• Total Funding (2026/27): $2.5 million
• Investment Categories and Allocations:
  • Strengthening Manufacturing & Business Capacity: $900,000 – To improve efficiency, competitiveness, and sector capacity.
  • Research & Innovation: $850,000 – To support new technologies, products, or processes in the wood sector.
  • Education & Skills Development: $600,000 – For workforce training, professional development, and readiness in the wood industry.
  • Marketing, Promotion & Outreach: $150,000 – To raise awareness of Wood First initiatives and encourage wood product uptake.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

The program is open to the following groups:

• Industry Groups/Associations: Representing multi-company interests, large geographic areas, or the majority of producers of a species or product category.
• Academic & Research Institutions: Universities, colleges, and trade schools.
• Indigenous Organizations: First Nations regional Tribal Councils and Indigenous non-profit organizations.
• Government Entities: B.C. government ministries, agencies, and municipal non-profit organizations.

📝 Application Process

1. Confirm Eligibility: Ensure alignment with FII/Wood First criteria.
2. Align Proposals: Proposals must align with program objectives and investment categories.
3. Demonstrate Impact: Highlight expected impact on innovation, capacity, skills, or market promotion.
4. Submit Applications: Follow the Wood First Call for Proposals guidelines and submit before the deadline.

📅 Application Deadline

15 January, 2026

🌐 Application Portal

• View program details on the Forestry Innovation Investment Wood First Program website.
• Apply directly via the application portal.

Make sure to review all guidelines and submit your application on time to take advantage of this exciting opportunity!

• Total Funding (2026/27): $2.5 million
• Investment Categories and Allocations:
  • Strengthening Manufacturing & Business Capacity: $900,000 – to improve efficiency, competitiveness, and sector capacity
  • Research & Innovation: $850,000 – to support new technologies, products, or processes in the wood sector
  • Education & Skills Development: $600,000 – for workforce training, professional development, and readiness in the wood industry
  • Marketing, Promotion & Outreach: $150,000 – to raise awareness of Wood First initiatives and encourage wood product uptake