In recognition of the incredible contribution that the small business community makes on the Sunshine Coast, the Sunshine Coast Regional Economic Development Organization (SCREDO) has partnered with the Gibsons, Sechelt and Pender Harbour Chambers of Commerce, and the Sechelt Downtown Business Association (SDBA) to launch a Local Business Community Engagement Initiative. The purpose of this initiative was to engage and connect with local business owners, to understand their confidence levels, to identify their current challenges, to generate ideas for community programming, and to gather feedback on how regional business organizations and government can better support the business community in our region. In order to ensure an inclusive and comprehensive representation of our region’s diverse business community, we implemented a multifaceted approach to business community engagement, including conducting an online business climate survey, hosting five industry-specific roundtable discussions, and organizing on-the-ground business walks in various communities throughout the region.

Through this initiative, we were able to actively engage with approximately 250 local business owners across 16 diverse sectors, acquiring valuable insights into the current business climate in our region. We have created a regional 2023 Business Climate Update for the Southern Sunshine Coast which outlines the trends we observed, the insights derived from these trends, and potential opportunities and recommendations for the future development of programming and supports for our local business community.

Still can’t find what you’re looking for? Call us at 604-747-4696 from 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday to speak with one of our local business advisors to help you get started. You can also email us at smallbiz@scredo.ca.

This section is updated regularly with new content so check back often and sign-up to receive updates.