The path to starting a business in BC can be hard to navigate. There are a number of free resources that are specifically designed for newcomers to Canada. If you’re not sure where to start, or what to do, these tools and resources can help you get started on the right track:
The Newcomers’ Guide to Starting A Business in British Columbia, a book available at the Fraser Valley Regional Library, covers how to find business ideas, research the market, prepare a business plan, calculate how much start-up money is needed, locate financing and begin operations.
The Vancouver Public Library’s ‘Skilled Immigrant InfoCentre’ has information for starting and running your Small Business; specifically, Starting a Business in BC for Newcomers, Financing Your Small Business, Market Research & Business Plan: Resources for Your Small Business, as well as North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) – a system used to collect, analyse and publish statistical information about changes to the economy.
Small Business BC provides entrepreneurs with products and services that will assist their successful entry into small business ventures. They offer advice, seminars, and free tools to help you get started.
The Women’s Enterprise Centre is a full-service business resource for BC women who are starting their own ventures. They provide business skills training, personalized business advice, mentoring, practical business resources and a supportive community to help women business owners gain the skills, mindset, financing and networks needed to realize their business potential. They understand and relate to the unique circumstances of women business owners.
S.U.C.C.E.S.S. offers a free business start-up program for youth aged 18-29. They assist young entrepreneurs to develop skills that are needed for entrepreneurship and empower them for self-employment and business start-up. Their free services include coaching, mentoring, networking, business workshops, business plan writing, and business visits.
Regardless of the path you take to starting your own business, be open-minded and don’t be afraid to ask questions. There are many people who are more than happy to help you succeed in your next venture. Good luck!