Communities throughout British Columbia can take advantage of a new suite of online tools and resources to help them strengthen and diversify their local economies.

If you support economic activity for your community - a local government or First Nation - the Business Attraction Toolkit can help attract potential new businesses and investors from across Canada and around the world.

From understanding your area's unique assets to impressing visiting investors, the toolkit has been designed to support B.C. communities through all the stages of business attraction. Whether it's a new mom-and-pop operation down the street or an international partner for a multi-stage development project, the online toolkit can help communities create and implement long-term strategies and be prepared to host an interested investor.

Communities can start with a downloadable checklist that provides a rating of their business and investment readiness. The Business Attraction Toolkit then provides resources and tips to address any shortcomings and attract investment opportunities.

The toolkit has been developed with assistance from local governments, First Nations, the Union of B.C. Municipalities, Beetle Action Coalitions, and regional economic development trusts and experts. Their input has been used to shape the tools and resources to ensure they are user-focused and adaptable.

Quote:

Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour -

"We are committed to helping British Columbia communities reach their full potential. That's why we're providing additional resources both online and in person so communities can capitalize on their assets and create jobs to support B.C. families."

Learn More:

Click here to start using the Business Attraction Toolkit: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content?id=DE445E2BD43B46FD96D1D7B9A9C838E1

And here to find the downloadable Community Business Readiness Assessment Checklist: www.jtst.gov.bc.ca/BusinessAttractionToolkit/section1/tool1-1.htm

The Business Attraction Toolkit is one part of an Enhanced Community Economic Support Initiative that includes regional forums and workshops for local leaders to help every British Columbia community develop and diversify its economy. For additional information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/jtst/

Check out OpportunitiesBC, a growing online database of investment opportunities throughout the province: www.OpportunitiesBC.ca

The Business Attraction Toolkit team welcomes feedback and comments. Connect with them by email: ToolKit@gov.bc.ca

Media Contact:

Media Relations
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism, and Skills Training and Responsible for Labour
250 387-2799