The Kootenay Association for Science & Technology (KAST) is a registered non-profit society whose members live and work throughout the West Kootenay-Boundary region and represent a broad range of interests in local industry, business, education and government.

KAST works to foster a culture that values science, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship as activities vital to maintaining and enhancing the competitiveness of the region. KAST organizes and supports events and initiatives that help to stimulate the growth of science and technology in the region.

KAST's mission of promoting and advancing science and technology in the region is partially achieved through one of KAST's primary goals, namely acting as a catalyst for advancing technological development to revitalize and diversify the West Kootenay-Boundary regional economy. With over 250 members, KAST has become an important resource for promoting science and technology in the region.

KAST receives its core funding from the BC Innovation Council. In addition, every effort is made to leverage funding through partnerships, sponsorships and contracts with government and other organizations. A Board of Directors that includes both private and public sector representation governs KAST. The Executive Director is responsible for ensuring the effective operation of the society.


REGIONAL OVERVIEW

KAST is committed to servicing the entire West Kootenay Bounday Region. The West Kootenay Boundary Region, located in a mountainous region of south eastern British Columbia, is a spectacular place in which to both work and play.

Located in close proximity to Spokane Washington and a relatively short drive from some major North American cities including Vancouver, Seattle and Calgary the region is an affordable and beautiful place to live.

With a population of 80 000, the region has shown a recent upsurge in business starts ups and offers a wide range of business opportunities. Recent successes in such varied industries as software development, mineral manufacturing and geographical informational systems demonstrate the truly diverse nature and potential of the region.

STRATEGIC PLAN

Mission

The Kootenay Association for Science and Technology is a professional organization that actively promotes science, technology and innovation; and facilitates meaningful connections to stimulate entrepreneurial and economic development.

Values

As a community-based organization, we value:

• Being a visible and approachable member of our regional community;
• Creating connections to solutions;
• Positive partnerships and relationships that advance science, technology and innovation;
• Our local talent and learning from others;
• Education and learning;
• Creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship;
• Effective action;
• Inspiration;
• Professionalism.

Vision

A robust, diversified regional economy in which science, technology and innovation are valued, and the Kootenay Association for Science and Technology (KAST) is an active and credible leader; and where technology is an accessible and integral component of business success.

Our primary role, which we want to inform people of, is:

To be an active catalyst and facilitator for strengthening a sustainable and diverse economy through the application and development of technology.