Stackabl Housing Initiative: Exploring Housing and Economic Opportunities

Posted on by kiaralc

Huu-ay-aht First Nations (HFN) continues to explore the Stackabl modular housing initiative, which aims to address housing needs while also creating broader economic opportunities for the Nation.

Over the past two years, HFN has been working closely with Stackabl Homes BC to understand better the technology, supply chain, and long-term potential of modular housing. This has included delegations to China, internal due diligence, and engagement with various government organizations and agencies. As part of their commitment to the project, Stackabl has covered the costs associated with the China delegations, allowing HFN to participate in this important due diligence work without placing a financial burden on the Nation. In addition, Stackabl has opened offices in Vancouver and Nanaimo and provided a job opportunity to one of the Huu-ay-aht citizens.

A key milestone has been reached: the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) has approved Stackabl Homes BC’s manufacturing and technology partners. This makes them the first offshore Canadian manufacturing unit to obtain CSA-A277 certification, allowing them to manufacture housing for the Canadian market. In early June, Huu-ay-aht returned to China for a follow-up visit to understand the manufacturing process further and explore opportunities to integrate Huu-ay-aht forestry resources into the supply chain.

The project is gaining strong interest across the region, with active discussions underway with multiple stakeholders, institutions, and First Nations on Vancouver Island regarding potential affordable housing projects. A CSA-certified demonstration unit with BC Step Code 4 is planned for installation in Port Renfrew in August, helping to showcase the product and support engagement with communities, governments, and partners.

Huu-ay-aht First Nations is currently working on a pre-feasibility study, which is expected to be concluded by November 2026. This study will analyze the supply chain, demand, product viability, and cost before stepping into a full feasibility stage that could support a joint venture between HFN and Stackabl Homes BC. By exploring the viability of bringing housing manufacturing directly to HFN treaty settlement lands, this initiative ultimately aims to unleash the wealth of our nism̓a (land) and create sustainable jobs for citizens.

While still in the early stages, this initiative has the potential to support housing development, create jobs, and contribute to long-term economic growth in the region.

Huu-ay-aht First Nations Shares Vision for Nation-Led Tourism Initiatives

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Huu-ay-aht First Nations (HFN) is advancing two key tourism projects that will help shape how our ḥaḥuułi (traditional territories) are experienced, promoted, and supported over the long term. Together, these initiatives are focused on creating a strong, Nation-led tourism economy that reflects Huu-ay-aht values while generating sustainable opportunities for citizens.

Establishing Regional Management and Reinvestment

As part of this vision, Huu-ay-aht is working toward establishing what could become Canada’s first Indigenous-led Destination Management Organization (DMO). This initiative focuses on developing a coordinated approach to managing and promoting tourism across Huu-ay-aht territory. By establishing a clear identity and “sense of place” for the region, the DMO aims to ensure that local tourism directly reflects the Nation’s culture, priorities, and long-term vision.

Alongside the development of the DMO, Huu-ay-aht is exploring the implementation of the Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT). If approved, the MRDT would generate dedicated revenue to be reinvested directly into community-identified tourism initiatives. Potential improvements include enhanced signage across the territory, trail development and maintenance, targeted marketing for regional tourism experiences, and public infrastructure such as washrooms and visitor amenities.

This project is not just about attracting visitors; it is about ensuring that tourism is well-managed and community-driven, and that it benefits all residents of the Huu-ay-aht territory.

Preparing for the Cultural & Visitor Information Centre

In parallel, preparations are underway for the opening of the Cultural & Visitor Information Centre, anticipated in 2026. This facility will serve as a central hub for visitors to learn about Huu-ay-aht history, culture, and territory. Current planning focuses on designing the overall visitor experience, developing day-to-day operations, and creating structural opportunities for Huu-ay-aht artists and entrepreneurs to participate through retail space and cultural programming.

Once operational, the Cultural & Visitor Information Centre will play an important role in welcoming visitors in meaningful ways, creating local employment, and supporting cultural sharing.

Pachena Bay Beach & River in Anacla, BC.

Cultivating Food Security: Huu-ay-aht First Nations Launches Vertical Farming Pilot in Anacla

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Huu-ay-aht First Nations (HFN) is preparing to welcome a new Vertical Hydroponic Farming unit to Anacla, with delivery expected in mid-May. Led by HFN’s Economic Development team in strategic partnership with Simon Fraser University (SFU), the project represents a major step toward local food sovereignty. This initiative was made possible by securing close to $700,000 in funding from several key partners, including Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Island Coast Economic Trust (ICET), BC Hydro, and the BC Government.

The project utilizes specialized technology from Growcer, a leader in modular farming, which is providing the unit along with the essential training and technology transfer required for success. Once operational, the Growcer unit will enable the year-round local growth of fresh produce, such as leafy greens and vegetables. This is a vital resource for the community, where access to fresh, affordable food is often limited by distance and transportation challenges.

Currently, work is underway in Anacla to prepare the site and ensure the necessary systems are in place before installation. Simultaneously, SFU is supporting Huu-ay-aht in developing a business plan, training materials, food safety protocols, and hiring processes to get the project up and running. Launched as a pilot, this initiative serves as a social blueprint for the future, allowing HFN to test operations and explore how the project can evolve into a long-term social enterprise that creates local jobs and ensures lasting food security for Huu-ay-aht citizens.

Inside a hydroponic vertical farming unit (Photo provided by Growcer).

For more information:

December Uyaqḥmis (Page 2)

Knowledge Gathering Workshop

Posted on by Huu-ay-aht Communications


Huu-ay-aht is currently undertaking community research to understand the significance of the Old Village Site, Kiix̣in, historically and in the present context as perceived by the community, to develop a collective vision for the future growth potential of Kiix̣in and its surrounding areas. This project is funded by the First Peoples’ Cultural Council’s (FPCC), Sense of Place Grant. 

We would like to hear from the community and understand the significance of the Village Site in the present context and the cultural relationships of Huu-ay-aht people to the Village Site. This will be explored in the first half of the session. The second half of the session will examine the potential for the Kiix̣in Village Site and the neighbouring areas for future growth and examine what that growth looks like. 

The engagement Workshop will be held in person in Bamfield. This will be a limited-person engagement seeking 3 Elders, 3 Youths and 3 Adults to include diverse voices and varied perspectives. Enrollment in the Workshop will be required to secure a spot. Honorariums will be provided to the Workshop participants for their valuable time and feedback. 

Details about the Workshop are mentioned below.

When – Thursday, May 11, 2023, from 9 am to 12 pm (Lunch will be provided).

Where – Bamfield B.C., The Market

Please call 250-723-0100 Ext 106 or email cheryl.e@huuayaht.org to secure your spot for the Knowledge Gathering Workshop for the Sense of Place Grant Project. 

We thank you for your time and support!

Negotiation team continues to update Huu-ay-aht leadership

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Ḥaw̓iiḥ and Executive Council gathered at the House of Huu-ay-aht in Anacla July 20, 21 for an update on negotiations with Steelhead LNG.

The Nation is open to exploring economic development opportunities that align with its goals and principals and continue to work toward developing a process that creates mutually beneficial working relationships. Huu-ay-aht appreciates the citizens who also came out to learn about the negotiations.

While the meetings were not open to the public and citizens, we look forward to seeing everyone again at our next Community Engagement Sessions, which will be held in September. These upcoming engagement sessions will provide an opportunity for open and transparent dialogue between our citizens and government about what we are doing. Ask and we will answer.

PLEASE REMEMBER: If you have questions at any time, you can ask us and the government will respond. Send your comments or questions to communications@huuayaht.org or call 250-723-0100.