Vancouver Island & Coast
The Vancouver Island and Coast economic region includes Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and some of the coastal regions of the mainland. British Columbia’s capital, Victoria, is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. The temperate climate and diversified regional economy attract visitors and residents from around the globe, creating a healthy workforce and many opportunities in technology, forestry, tourism, and the service industry.
Regional Advantages
TOP 10 MOST LIVABLE CITIES IN 2019
A combination of temperate climate, global access, business opportunities, welcoming culture, and access to nature provide a world-class quality of life.
SONGHEES INNOVATION CENTRE
A co-working space for Indigenous entrepreneurs, freelancers, creatives, innovators, and problem-solvers based in the Songhees Wellness Centre.
CANADA’S TOP TEN GREENEST CITIES
An environmentally conscious and sustainable economy is a key advantage in recruiting and retaining top talent.
SALMON CAPITAL OF THE WORLD
Strategically located along the Strait of Georgia’s Inner passage, Campbell River boasts a reputation for one of the top salmon fishing destinations in the world for more than a century.
Communities
The Vancouver Island and Coast economic region is found on the west coast of B.C. and includes the provincial capital of Victoria, all of Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and some of the coastal regions of the mainland. Driven by tourism and a healthy population, the service sector plays a major role in the region’s economy. Other important industries include logging and fishing.
Economic Development Organizations
First Nations
The 53 First Nations of Vancouver Island are located in three distinct tribal regions–Coast Salish, Nuuchah nulth, and Kwakiutl–the First Peoples of Vancouver Island. This region is known for its temperate climate, unspoiled wilderness, and beautiful coastlines.
Economic Development Associations
Region Profile
Educational Institutions
Royal Roads University is an accredited, publicly funded, applied research university that has focused on lifelong education in the fields of leadership, business, environment, communication, tourism, hospitality, and social justice.
An internationally renowned teaching and research hub, the University of Victoria (UVic) tackles essential issues that matter to our world and our communities, improving lives and making a vital impact across the globe.
With its main campus located in Nanaimo, Vancouver Island University (VIU) offers programs in business and management, computer and information systems, recreation, tourism, hospitality, and service, as well as many other areas of study.
Offers university transfer and applied degree programs, career, and trades training, upgrading and preparatory programs and continuing education.
North Island College is a comprehensive community college, serving more than 9,000 students annually at four campuses, a learning centre, and through online and in-community learning.
Connect With A Regional Expert
Regional experts can help familiarize you with the amenities, infrastructure, and opportunities in each region. They can introduce you to the economic development offices and industry associations that will support the integration of your business into the province.