Office of the Premier
Starting and running a business is easier for entrepreneurs in communities across British Columbia now that 11 new local governments have signed on to the BizPaL licence program.
BizPaL is a unique partnership between federal, provincial, territorial, municipal and First Nations governments which cuts through the paperwork burden and red tape that small business owners encounter, helping them focus on business growth and job creation.
Today's announcement means that more businesses in British Columbia will benefit from a free online tool that is a one-stop site to find information about required business licences and permits. Launched in B.C. in 2004, BizPaL directs entrepreneurs to the information they need to start and operate a business in their community.
BizPaL saves time and money for entrepreneurs who are opening new businesses in communities like the Tsawwassen First Nation that have recently signed on to the BizPaL program.
The local governments are:
- District of Wells
- Village of Slocan
- Village of Salmo
- Village of Silverton
- Village of Clinton
- Village of Chase
- Village of Pouce Coupe
- Village of New Denver
- Capital Regional District
- District of Oak Bay
- Tsawwassen First Nation
The newest communities to join bring the total number of local governments in B.C. involved in BizPaL to 129.
Quotes:
Bardish Chagger, federal Minister of Small Business and Tourism –
“BizPaL will make a real and positive difference in how business is done in these communities. This great service cuts red tape for entrepreneurs, letting them spend less time researching rules and permits and more time on their business. BizPaL means it will be easier for companies in these communities to get started and running.”
Coralee Oakes, Minister of Small Business, Red Tape Reduction and Responsible for the Liquor Distribution Branch –
“Services like BizPaL are practical tools that reduce paperwork and red tape. Before BizPaL, a plumber in Kamloops would have had to go to multiple websites to determine which licences were required. Now, this process can be done in minutes by clicking the BizPaL link.”
Chief Bryce Williams, Tsawwassen First Nation –
“Tsawwassen First Nation is pleased to join the BizPaL program. We are a self-governing First Nation engaged in significant commercial, industrial and residential development. In collaboration with Canada and British Columbia, BizPaL will allow us to further support businesses on our Lands by providing ready access to information from all three levels of government. It is one more step on our path toward economic sustainability for our people.”
Learn More:
Area business owners and entrepreneurs can access the service by selecting BizPaL at the provincial website: www.bcbizpal.ca
Government of Canada website: http://www.bizpal.ca/
