What makes a city a truly great place to live – so great that it tops a list of desirable cities worldwide? It's a hot debate, with everyone measuring and weighing different variables.    If you are an investor or site selector, locating in one of those genuinely exceptional cities can go a long way towards supporting your recruitment and retention of the best, most talented professionals. Canada is proud to be home to three of the Top 10 Most Livable Cities in the World in 2019; Vancouver, British Columbia is the world's sixth most livable city.    The Economist Intelligence Unit (... continue reading

British Columbia is really, really big. The province is bigger than France and Germany combined and about double the size of California. Almost 64% of the province (about 60 million hectares) is forested, yet less than one-third of one percent is harvested annually. And we still manage to export millions of tonnes of wood products each year, because it is such an abundant resource. British Columbia provides a business-friendly environment and a versatile natural resource that lends itself to innovative, sustainable purposes.  The Province is committed to a Mass Timber action plan. Mass timber supports CleanBC goals by lower... continue reading

The Vancouver Island and Coast region is located on the west coast of British Columbia and includes all of Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and some of the coastal regions of the Mainland. This region is known for its temperate climate, unspoiled wilderness and beautiful coastlines. Business advantages include quick and easy access to other tech and tourism hubs like Vancouver and Seattle with a wide range of transportation options. Businesses on the island and coast have access to networks of economic development professionals and close-knit communities, helping create outsized opportunities that can leverage whole sub-region... continue reading

Investors are attracted to British Columbia’s strong economic fundamentals, its proximity to the U.S. market, its highly skilled work force, and abundant resources. With one of North America’s most competitive business climates, British Columbia offers stability and support to startups and new offices. The province is at the commercial crossroads of Asia-Pacific and North America with the shortest sea route between the two for easy global access. The welcoming culture and ability to bring international talent into B.C. contributes to the local staffing pool, while the natural beauty and popular outdoor activities com... continue reading

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all sectors of the economy and aerospace is no exception. In the leadup to the global pandemic, B.C.’s aerospace sector was well positioned for growth. Between 2012 and 2017, B.C. increased its aerospace manufacturing exports by 57% and diversified its exports outside of North America. The onset of COVID-19 dramatically changed a bright outlook for trade and investment and introduced a series of challenges for aerospace companies to navigate. Major aerospace manufacturers are slowing and, in some cases, halting production. There has also been a steep decrease in commercial air travel whic... continue reading

There are many studies that indicate that quality of life has a significant impact on productivity and business success, but in the fast-paced world of international business it isn’t always easy or convenient to make time for lifestyle pursuits. Unless, of course, you live in the Kootenay region of British Columbia, where rural beauty meets urban amenities and opportunities in technology, natural resources, agriculture and manufacturing. Tech and Innovation The Kootenay tech sector has been growing for several years but that growth has become exponential. For example, Selkirk College’s 3D printing filaments project... continue reading

British Columbia has a strong, supportive business environment for startup companies, entrepreneurs and growing industries. Local businesses that are ready to expand into new markets have resources at their disposal. Exporters can find programs to help determine export readiness and to prepare them for successful expansion; in-market experts who can provide insights, contacts and networking opportunities; and domestic experts who can share the benefits of free trade agreements. British Columbia and Canada have developed positive international relationships through free trade agreements. Export Programs There are several program... continue reading

Green COVID-19 economic recovery is a hot topic around the globe. Government policy during economic recovery and post-crisis will shape the economy and the climate for years to come. However, can we tackle climate change and a sound economic recovery from COVID-19? CleanBC is British Columbia’s program to create a strong, more sustainable future. Along with actions to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, CleanBC provides a practical blueprint for building our economy. CleanBC also will be central to the province’s economic recovery as we come out of COVID-19.   British Columbia’s Clean Tech Sector Bri... continue reading

The Thompson-Okanagan development region is the third-most populous in the province after the Mainland-Southwest and Vancouver Island-Coast development regions. It is the home of Interior Salish Indigenous peoples including the St’át’imc (Lillooet), Secwepemc (Shuswap), Nlaka'pamux (Thompson) and Syilx (Okanagan). The Thompson-Okanagan includes five regional districts, 31 municipalities, and 29 First Nations. Historically, the Thompson-Okanagan economy was largely based on forestry, mining, and agriculture. While these industries remain important today, they are now part of a highly diverse economy dominated by s... continue reading

Harmful bacteria exist on commonly touched surfaces including railings, handles and doorknobs. Some people may not realize that copper has unique antimicrobial properties and is proven to continuously kill bacteria that cause infection. It’s also naturally occurring, safe for people and the environment, and is the only solid metal touch surface registered as a public health product by Health Canada and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.  Copper surfaces eliminate up to 99.9% of harmful bacteria within two hours without needing any special maintenance or processes, making it a simple and effective preventative m... continue reading