BALTA Project D2 Proposal for 2008-2009 - Leveraging Social Ownership of Proprietary Trademarks related to the Golden Mussel as a Base for Expansion of Social Enterprise in Coastal B.C. Aboriginal Communities

Abstract

This proposal presents plans for the second phase of research by the BC-Alberta Social Economy Research Alliance (BALTA) linked to support of golden mussel aquaculture industry development with British Columbia, Canada, coastal First Nations communities. Phase I which began in July 2007 and will run through June 2008, has been focused on the completion of several literature reviews and the identification of major institutional design issues in the development of the Golden Mussel industry. Phase II, which will run from July 2008 through September 2009, will focus on grounding the institutional design for the industry in the community and Aboriginal context through field research to be carried out in two pilot communities. Phase II will also include consideration of how an interim trust or other body to hold the Golden Mussel trademarks could be structured to condition long-term industry development.