Resources to Support Your Next Steps
As a business owner and entrepreneur, you need support and tools that meet you where you're at. These are our go-to external resources designed to meet the real needs of business owners, specific to the Cowichan region. Additionally, you will find helpful Government and other resources that may be applicable.
Cowichan & Region Resources
Downtown Duncan Business Improvement Association
Chemainus Business Improvement Association
Vancouver Island Economic Trust
Aboriginal Resources
All Nations Trust Company
The New Relationship Trust (NRT) is an independent non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening First Nations in BC through capacity building.
Aboriginal Affairs & Northern Development Canada
Funding for Aboriginal entrepreneurs, communities, and organizations. The National Procurement Strategy helps Aboriginal businesses do more contracting with the government
Agriculture Resources
Farm Management Canada is a well-trusted management resource for farm business owners and managers, as well as others in the agriculture industry. It is the only national organization that is solely dedicated to providing leading resources to help Canadian farmers to make good management decisions.
Farm Credit Canada (FCC) Supports entrepreneurs and believes in the future of agriculture and food. They are a partner, a catalyst and a champion of the agriculture industry.
Government Resources
BC Stats
BC Stats is the central statistical agency of the Province of British Columbia. This site has the provincial government's largest concentration of statistical information.
Business Structure Options
The type of structure you choose for your business has a significant effect on the way you report your income. The business structure impacts the type of tax returns you file each year, and many other matters.
Canada - Business and Industry
Business taxes, permits and regulations, intellectual property, business support, and how to sell to government.
FrontCounter BC and Natural Resource Online Services
FrontCounter BC and Natural Resource Online Services, the one-stop information hub for all Natural Resource Services.
Ministry of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation
The Ministry of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation manages government services that help support and maintain the strong and diverse economy that British Columbians need for long-term prosperity. It supports the growth of BC’s tech sector, champions innovation across the economy, nurtures small businesses, supports economic development throughout the province, and promotes BC internationally as a preferred place to invest and do business.
OneStop Business Registry
The OneStop Business Registry is a public sector partnership that offers integrated business registration and liquor licensing services based on the business number.
Pacific Economic Development Canada
Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan) is the regional development agency focused on British Columbia’s evolving economy. PacifiCan leads in building a strong, competitive Canadian economy by supporting business, innovation and community economic development unique to British Columbia
