Research and education institutions have in the past brought some resources into local economies, e.g., Bamfield Marine Station, Hakai Institute, Cowichan Lake Research Station, UBC research forests. Researchers are increasingly required to spend a higher percentage of their budget in the local communities in which they work. The principle is that those who steward the ecosystems/species (whether through hiring, training and certifications, straight donations or supporting local organizations who do the training) receive a higher proportion of the funding.
Having a research-ready entity to receive these grants and support dollars can supplement cultural, educational and social programs. The creation of an ancient forest research institution on the west coast of Vancouver Island and/or Haida Gwaii has the potential to provide an important source of revenue.