Business & Investment Guide

of all the places in the world to invest, of
all the cities in which to do business, only

one offers all these competitive advantages.
THINK VANCOUVER
Creative, intelligent, highly skilled

people from all over the world. A
welcoming, cosmopolitan lifestyle.
A wealth of activities at your doorstep.
A thriving, entrepreneurial business
environment.
This is Vancouver.
One of the most dynamic and diverse economies in North
America. A setting of majestic beauty. An enviable climate.
Unsurpassed quality of life. No wonder Vancouver is a
magnet for intelligent, talented people from around the
world.
Creative, entrepreneurial citizens make Vancouver an
innovation incubatora place where new ideas, products
and services are born. One of the greenest cities in
North America, it encourages sustainable thinking while
supporting business development.
As a home to both new industries (like digital media) and

traditional ones (like resource extraction), Vancouver has
positioned itself in the vanguard of the global economy.
And the global economy is at Vancouvers doorstep.
Closest to Asia of all major North American cities,
Vancouver is a fast-growing, increasingly important
gateway between North America and the booming
economies of Asia Pacific. Its multicultural character
makes it an ideal nexus for trans-Pacific business
services. The convergence of the worlds leadwing
athletes, media outlets and corporations for the 2010
Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games will heighten
Vancouvers profile, amplify its business opportunities
and enhance its global business connections.
Choose Vancouver. Well help your business
grow naturally.
Vancouver Economic Development Commission 2008
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE THINK VANCOUVER BRAINS & BEAUTY
JUNE 2008
brains & beauty

Photo: all canada photos/chris cheadle
A smart city with a fastgrowing workforce in a

majestic setting.
In survey after survey, Vancouver ranks as one of the
worlds most livable cities. Its bustling downtown
business core is minutes away from world-class ski
resorts, pristine beaches and spectral old-growth forests.
And its highly skilled, entrepreneurial and competitive
workforce makes it one of the best places to do business.
In 2008 Vancouver was named one of the smartest
cities in the world by the Intelligent Community Forum.
FastCompany magazine recently named it a Global Fast
City, citing it as a leading competitor for global talent
and a leader in environmental sustainability.
large Canadian citiesthe creative class that helps

make a city vibrant and leading-edge. Entrepreneurs
constitute the second-largest Meetup.com group in
Vancouver (outpaced only by hikers). Small-business
creation happens more quickly here. Cities, like
companies, attract like-minded people, so the critical
mass of creative entrepreneurs expands steadily through
self-selected in-migration.
Vancouver is full
of entrepreneurs - the
creative class that
makes a city vibrant
Businesses benefit from a diverse workforce thats

growing fastmore than 40,000 people immigrate to
British Columbia each year. Because Vancouver is an
Asia-Pacific business centre, workforce diversity is
particularly important. More than two-thirds of recent
immigrants came from Asia.
Businesses can bank on a workforce thats not only happy

and healthy but book smart and business savvy.
More than a third of the population has undergraduate
degrees, and ten per cent have advanced degrees.
Vancouver has the highest concentration of artists among
Photo: mark doherty
Ingenuity and creativity are hallmarks of the region.

Mountain Equipment Co-op, the largest retail cooperative
in Canada with 1,100 employees, uses a unique business
model to offer high-quality outdoor goods, including
its own brand, to 2.6 million members. Lululemon, built
around yoga wear, is an international success. Dozens
of internet entrepreneurs are based here, including the
co-founder of Open Text Corporation, the founder of
NCompass Labs (acquired by Microsoft), and the young
man who started the photo-sharing website Flickr.
The complete VEDC Business & Investment Guide is available in PDF format on our website at:
www.vancouvereconomic.com. To request the guide in book format ($25) please phone 1-866-632-9668.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE THINK VANCOUVER INNOVATION INCUBATOR
JUNE 2008
innovation
incubator
Vancouver grows ideas. Scientists, engineers, researchers
and designers create knowledge and concepts that mutate
across industry lines. Entrepreneurs transform discoveries
into valuable products and services. New approaches
spark high-tech industries and bolster the productivity
of traditional industries. Companies like Gemcom
(mining productivity software), Copperleaf (infrastructure
management software) and Wolf Medical Systems
(healthcare productivity software) are international stories.
Vancouvers economy has been transformed in the last
quarter-century. The historic dependence on port and
resource extraction activities has been replaced by a
strong service economy that caters to both local and
international needs. And the city exports expertise in
engineering, sustainability, management, financial and
technical services to companies and governments the
world over.
Manufacturing enterprises succeed by drawing on
the intrinsic assets of the community to identify and
exploit market niches. Vancouverites enjoyment of
the mountains and ocean has spurred development of
a performance and technical apparel industry that is
conquering world markets. Leading manufacturers come
to the regions ski resorts not just for an exceptional
holiday, but to check out the latest gear. Exports of
food and related products are on the rise, thanks to
the fertility of the Fraser Valley and the abundance
of salmon and other seafood in the Pacific Ocean.
university-business
collaboration has given
rise to any number of
start-ups and spin offs
Photo: jason pfiefer
A strong tradition of public &

private sector innovation.
space shuttles to Sierra Wirelesss modem to the

superconducting quantum computer being developed by
D Wave Systems Inc. Highly competitive local industries
with global reputations include clean technologies and
planning for sustainability, biotechnology, digital media
and film and TV production.
Vancouvers innovation is built on strong institutional
support. This includes public sector investments in top
quality education and research, and effective public-private
partnerships. The governments of Canada and British
Columbia provide significant support to post-secondary
education, technology training, research and innovation.
Canada has one of the highest rates of broadband and
overall internet access in the world, and British Columbia
has the highest rate in Canada.
Two outstanding universities in Vancouver, the University
of British Columbia and Simon Fraser Universityalong
with Western Canadas leading polytechnic (British
Columbia Institute of Technology) and numerous
community colleges, technological institutes and
government research centrescomplement their
teaching and research expertise with excellent
international linkages and a commitment to collaboration
with business. This milieu encourages spin-off
companies, startup incubation, technology licensing and
commercialization. Companies like Neuromed, Cardiome
Pharmaceutical, Nexterra Energy and Rainmaker Studios
grew out of the regions collaborative environment.
The rise of high technology-based industries has been

marked by the emergence of globally competitive
companies, making the region home to many unique,
technology-based products, from the arm used on
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE THINK VANCOUVER GREEN GROWTH
JUNE 2008
green growth
Photo: busby perkins + will
Addressing climate
change while improving the
business climate.
Vancouverites visceral connection to the outdoors provides
a unique competitive advantage in a world struggling
to deal with environmental issues. Its no coincidence
that several globally prominent environmental groups
(including the David Suzuki Foundation) are based in
Vancouver, that UN Habitat was conceived at a Vancouver
conference, or that in 2008 British Columbia introduced
North Americas first revenue-neutral carbon tax, which
addressed climate change while providing equivalent
tax reductions to reduce the impact on businesses and
consumers.
In the world of architecture and urban planning,

Vancouverism has become shorthand for
sustainable urban development.
These green initiatives are being achieved without
sacrificing the conditions that make the region an
increasingly attractive environment for investment.
Government debt-to-GDP levels have been significantly
cut in recent years, and individual and corporate tax
rates have been steadily reduced. An ongoing program
to lessen government regulation has yielded a 40 per
cent reduction in regulatory burdens since 2001.
Vancouver is walking the walk at a time when other

North American cities are still talking the talk.
Concern for the environment is being transformed by the
regions entrepreneurs into green solutions in demand
the world over. Companies like Ballard Power Systems
(fuel cell technology) and Westport Innovations (cleanburning alternative fuels) are pioneers in sustainable
transportation. Architects and designers like Holland Barr,
Bing Thom, Peter Busby and Hotson Bakker are creating
eco-friendly buildings and communities on five continents.
Urban planners like Larry Beasley are replicating the
Vancouver model in cities as far from British Columbia
as Houston, Dubai, Sao Paolo and Abu Dhabi.
Photo: wesley regan.com
with federal,
provincial, regional
and city support,
green initiatives are
proliferating while
regulatory burdens are
being eased
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE THINK VANCOUVER GLOBAL GATEWAY
JUNE 2008
global gateway
Transportation has always been central to Vancouvers
psyche. British Columbia agreed to join Canada only in
exchange for a rail link to the centre of the continent.
The city developed around the very spot where the first
transcontinental rail line met the Pacific coast. And its
name memorializes the first British sea captain to reach
the area.
Blessed with one of the worlds best natural deep-water
harbours, the shortest distances to Asia of any major
North American city, and close proximity to the U.S.,
Vancouver was destined from its founding in 1886 to
become a key international transportation hub. As global
economic growth centres increasingly on the Pacific
Rim, the citys transportation assets become ever more
valuable. And in an age of instant global communication,
Vancouver is fortunate to be in a time zone that allows
access to all three centres of world commerce (London,
New York, Hong Kong) in a single working day.
As trans-Pacific traffic grows, Vancouver is investing
heavily to maximize the economic opportunities. The
governments of Canada and British Columbiatogether
with Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, Vancouvers
international airport (YVR), the regional transit authority,
the three Class 1 inter-continental railways that serve
the port, and other private interestsare ambitiously
upgrading the capacity and efficiency of Vancouvers global
gateway. Transportation investment commitments in the
region to date total over $20 billion.
Transportation
investment commitments
in the region to date
total over $20 billion
The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority was created in 2008
to bring together the three port authorities and increase
regional efficiency. Already North Americas leading port in
export tonnage, Vancouver expects to triple container flow
by 2020, while minimizing environmental impact.
Photo: nk west
The global economy at your

doorstep.
Vancouvers award-winning airport (ranked fourth in

the world in the 2007) is less than half an hour from
downtown. Infrastructure investment is dramatically
expanding capacity and includes a direct rapid-transit
link to downtown. Cargo handling is expected to double
by 2020. YVR airport has become a multi-modal hub and
distribution centre, with companies like UPS and Fedex
opening major, innovative facilities.
Global logistics planning and efficient delivery strategies
are spurring development of a strong warehousing and
distribution industry in Vancouver a critical evolution
as demand for just in time shipping grows. With the
streamlining of customs procedures at the nearby U.S.
border, the industry is expected to enjoy long-term growth.
Vancouver was a global city before the term was invented.
Global inter-connectivity has only reinforced its diverse,
multicultural nature. Combining indigenous cultures,
longstanding ties to Europe, and historic ties to Asia,
Vancouver embodies multiculturalism not as a slogan
but as part of everyday life. One of the worlds leading
tourist and culinary destinations, the city is renowned for
world-class cooking that fuses cultural ingredients and
influences with local sourcing and sustainable practices.
Cultural ties and family connections to other countries,
combined with business-friendly immigration policies,
make Vancouver fertile ground for professionals,
international entrepreneurs and companies that provide
services across cultures and national boundaries. More
than 70 countries maintain a consular presence in
Vancouver, providing institutional support for the many
foreign-based firms that do business here and signaling
Vancouvers stature as a port and an international
business centre.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE THINK VANCOUVER OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITY
JUNE 2008
2010: A celebration of the

regions role in the global
economy.
In early 2010, athletes, media, sponsors and spectators
from around the world will gather in Vancouver, and at
the nearby alpine resort of Whistler, for the Vancouver
2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. This event
will take the Vancouver brand to more than 3 billion
people around the world: as a world-class tourist and
recreational destination, to be sure, but also as a place
where innovative and resourceful residents, themselves
from all over the world, collaborate to stage and host a
global event.
The 2010 Games will showcase Vancouver as a place
where leading international businesses work together
to introduce new technologies in areas such as
infrastructure, health, sustainability, information and
communications. As a place where natural beauty and
cosmopolitan living co-exist in a sustainable balance. As a
place where the planets climate and the business climate
are both respected. In short, as an emerging 21st century
global business centre.
The economic activity generated by the 2010 Winter Games
means that now is the ideal time to establish or expand
a business presence in Vancouver - the 2010 Commerce
Centre in downtown Vancouver is already busy generating
deals. The economic impact of the Games, and of the
infrastructure investments they have triggered, will last
well beyond the lowering of the Olympic Flag. The Expo
86 worlds fair brought Vancouver global recognition and
a sustained economic boom. The 2010 Games will have a
similar effect, but on an exponential scale.
The Games will have other positive long-term effects as
well. They will be the most sustainable Games ever. A
variety of social, arts, amateur sports and other legacies
are already well advanced. British Columbia has fashioned
ground-breaking agreements on economic collaboration
with other members in the elite fraternity of host cities,
including Beijing and London. And Vancouver-area
businesses are already advising the host city of the 2014
Winter OlympicsSochi, Russiaon how to maximize its
opportunity.
Photo: city of vancouver
outstanding
opportunity
2010 Winter Games by the

numbersers
17: days of Olympic Games events

(February 12 to 28, 2010)
10: days of Paralympic Games events

(March 12 21, 2010)
5,500: projected number of Olympic Games athletes

and officials
1,350: projected number of Paralympic Games

athletes & officials
80+: countries participating in Olympic Winter Games

40+: countries participating in Paralympic Winter
Games
10,000: number of media representatives covering

the Games on site
250,000+: projected number of visitors to the

region
3 billion+: number of worldwide television

viewers of the Games
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this document is
accurate and current to May 1, 2008, however, neither the City of Vancouver nor
the Vancouver Economic Development Commission accepts any liability for actions
taken based on this material.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE VEDC: YOUR BUSINESS LINK
JUNE 2008
The Vancouver Economic

Development Commission
(VEDC) connects local and
international businesses in
the city of Vancouver.
VEDC works to strengthen the economy of the city of
Vancouver by helping existing businesses, attracting new
businesses, researching business issues and making
policy recommendations.
It works closely with elected officials, the consular corps,
and relevant departments of all levels of government. It
links directly with peer organizations in the region, broadbased and sector-specific industry associations and ethnic
business groups. It also engages regularly with postsecondary and technology institutions, legal, real estate
and business services professionals, and others whose
work affects economic development of the region.
photo: WESLEYREGAN.COM
VEDC: YOUR
BUSINESS LINK
VANCOUVER ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
Suite 1620, 1075 West Georgia Street
Vancouver, BC Canada V6E 3C9
Tel: 1-866-632-9668
www.vancouvereconomic.com
VEDCs economic development activities are based on

guiding principles approved by the City of Vancouver. (see
www.vancouvereconomic.com/page/guiding-principles)
Services to help local businesses and entrepreneurs
include:
VEDC is the City of

Vancouvers economic
development agency, led
by a volunteer board of
senior business leaders
Starting a business in Vancouver

VEDC can guide you to the resources necessary to
successfully start or relocate a business in the city of
Vancouver, including:
Profiles of Vancouver and its business districts
Analysis of Vancouvers economy and business climate
Start-up, expansion and relocation services
Business licences, permits and City regulations
The purpose of these activities is to bring the best

possible information to companies and entrepreneurs
interested in business development in the city. Services are
comprehensive, confidential and free to clients.
Growing your business in Vancouver

VEDC provides access to the people, tools and services to
make your business efficient, sustainable and profitable,
including:
Working with City Hall
Business development and marketing
Sponsorship and event opportunities
Industry advocacy and support
VEDC also serves as the voice of business to Vancouvers

City Hall, making recommendations to the City on ways
to improve the business climate and make Vancouver
more attractive to business from around the globe. In
late 2007, VEDC delivered a report to City Council on the
citys business climate, based on input from the business
community.
Helping your business grow...naturally.
Working with business districts

Vancouver is a city of business districts, each with its
own character, key industries and local customers.
The complete VEDC Business & Investment Guide is available in PDF format on our website at
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE VEDC: YOUR BUSINESS LINK
JUNE 2008
VEDC works with BIAs on a variety of programs, including

profiles for each BIA and its surrounding community.
VEDC SERVES AS THE

VOICE OF BUSINESS TO
VANCOUVERS CITY HALL
Helping businesses locate in Vancouver
VEDC markets the city of Vancouvers strategic location,
entrepreneurial spirit, competitive advantages, probusiness climate and outstanding lifestyle across Canada
and around the world. VEDC connects international
businesses to Vancouver, helping them set up, succeed
and grow.
Economic development promotion
VEDC works to establish the city of Vancouver as the
worldwide location of choice for targeted industries
through:
Marketing and outreach
Collaboration with industry associations to promote
business opportunities in Vancouver
Sponsorship and participation in industry events and
activities
Business Attraction
VEDC provides individual companies and entrepreneurs
with investment and business support through:
Supplying customized data and intelligence on business
and economic conditions, as well as information on the
community, its lifestyle and amenities
Conducting familiarization tours
Providing assistance in addressing site selection,
business registration, immigration, taxation and
regulatory issues
Providing connection and introduction to key Vancouver
business resources: local companies, industry
associations, relevant government agencies and other
facilitators
Incoming business delegations
VEDC supports delegations through:
Presentations on local business opportunities
Arranging information meetings, company introductions
and project tours
Providing matchmaking services
photo: TOURISM VANCOUVER/ROBERT KENT
Many districts have business improvement areas (BIAs)

that promote the district through events, street-scape
improvements and other programs.
REGIONAL COLLABORATION
VEDC collaborates with other municipalities in the region
through Metro Vancouver Commerce, a vehicle to promote
economic development region-wide.
VEDCs partners in Metro Vancouver Commerce are:
CITY OF RICHMOND
www.richmond.ca
CITY OF SURREY
www.surrey.ca
CITY OF NEW WESTMINSTER
www.city.new-westminster.bc.ca
DISTRICT OF NORTH VANCOUVER
www.district.north-van.bc.ca
CITY OF NORTH VANCOUVER
www.cnv.org
For more information about the activities of VEDC and
Metro Vancouver Commerce, or to access our services call
1-800-632-9688 or email us at:
info@vancouvereconomic.com.
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this document is
accurate and current to May 1, 2008, however, neither the City of Vancouver nor
the Vancouver Economic Development Commission accepts any liability for actions
taken based on this material.
VANCOUVER HAS A DYNAMIC, HIGHLY

DIVERSIFIED URBAN ECONOMY WITH
GROWING KNOWLEDGE-BASED SECTORS
AND STRONG GLOBAL LINKAGES.
Economic
profile
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE ECONOMIC PROFILE
JUNE 2008
Physical Characteristics
Greater Vancouver, with a population
of 2.1 million, is Canadas third largest
urban area. Located in British Columbia,
Canadas westernmost province, the region
covers nearly 2,900 square kilometres,
bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west,
the US border to the south, the valley
of the Fraser River to the east and the
Coastal Mountains to the north. Seattle,
Washington is 226 km to the south, while
Calgary, Alberta is 975 km to the east.
Vancouvers oceanside location gives it a
mild climate year round.
photo: istockphoto / volodymyr kyrylyuk
*the Economist
Intelligence Unit
ranked Vancouver
the worlds most
livable city in 2006
9.
geneva
7.
5.
Sidney
TORONTO
6.
4.
8.
3.
VIENNA
COPENHAGEN
10.
zurich
The Economist Intelligence Unit ranked

Vancouver as the worlds most livable city
in 2006. The Mercer Groups 2007 Quality
of Living Survey ranked Vancouver third of 215 cities
worldwide, and first in North America.
Government
Canada is a federal state; the governments of Canada
and British Columbia both play a role in establishing
Vancouvers business climate.
The Vancouver region, comprising the City of Vancouver
and 20 other municipalities, accounts for close to half
of British Columbias population and economic output. A
region-wide authority, Metro Vancouver, has responsibility
for water supply, sewage treatment, garbage disposal
and recycling, and other activities. Economic development
activities in the region are coordinated by an alliance of
municipal economic development agencies known as
Metro Vancouver Commerce.
The City of Vancouver is the largest municipality in the
region in terms of population and economic activity. The
citys economic development agency, the Vancouver
Economic Development Commission (VEDC), is a founding
member of Metro Vancouver Commerce, and participates
in all Metro Vancouver Commerce activities. The citys
downtown includes more than half of all commercial office
space in the region and serves as the international front
door to British Columbia.
ADELAIDE
2.
MELBOURNE
PERTH
1.
VANCOUVER
WORLDS MOST LIVABLE CITY*
Business Climate
Canada
Canada is enjoying strong economic performance and a
highly favourable business climate. Canadas 2008 Budget
noted:
Canadas labour market is strong, with unemployment
near a 33 year low and the share of Canadians
currently employed at a record high.
Household net worth is growing strongly and corporate
profits are near a record high.
The fiscal position of the consolidated government
sector is excellent; the most recent OECD estimates
suggest Canada will have the best fiscal position of all
G7 nations in 2008.
Canadas real income per capita has grown over 20 per
cent since 2001.
The federal corporate tax rate has been reduced
from 37.8 per cent in 1980 to 15 per cent by 2012.
Canada will have the lowest tax rate on new business
investment in the G7 by 2011, and will have the lowest
statutory tax rate in the G7 by 2012.
The federal debt-to-GDP burden will fall to 25 per cent
by 2011/12, the lowest since the 1970s.
JUNE 2008
The 2008 KPMG Competitive Alternatives study found

Canada has the lowest business costs in the G7. It leads
the G7 in manufacturing, software and R&D costs.
KPMG ranked Canada first in the G7 for high school
science scores, and second in educational attainment
and expenditure. Canada ranked first in the G7 for
environmental laws and second for environmental
performance. Canada leads the G7 in energy selfsufficiency.
the b.c. government is a

north american leader
in the use of publicprivate partnerships
British Columbia
British Columbias economy is currently outperforming
that of Canada, and its business climate is among the
most favourable of all Canadian provinces.
As noted in its 2008 Budget, the Government of British
Columbia has taken major steps to create a stable and
competitive tax environment in the province.
The general corporate income tax rate has been reduced
from 16.5 per cent in 2000 to 10 per cent in 2011. Together
with federal tax reductions, this will result in a combined
federal and provincial tax rate of 25 per cent by 2012
well below the average US rate of 35 per cent. The small
business tax rate has been reduced to 3.5 per cent with
planned further reductions to 2.5 per cent by 2011.

city
Area (sq. km):

Population (2006):
Population per sq. km:
Private dwellings (2006):
Dwellings per sq. km:
115
578,041
5,039
273,804
2381
region
2877
2,116,581
736
870,992
303
Source: Statistics Canada 2006 Census
photo: sea-to-sky highway improvement project
Top marginal personal income tax rates remain below

those in jurisdictions such as California and Ontario.
Other recent tax reductions include the elimination of the
corporate capital tax on large financial institutions by
2010.
The B.C. government has a strong record of sound fiscal
management. A balanced budget is required by law and
the Province will end the 2007/8 fiscal year with its fourth
consecutive budgetary surplus. Its ratio of tax supported
debt to GDP has fallen from 21.3 per cent in 2002/3 to
an estimated 14.1 per cent in 2007/8 and is expected
to remain below 14 per cent in future years. The B.C.
government enjoys the highest ratings on its debt from
both Moodys and Standard & Poors.
The B.C. government is a North American leader in
the use of public-private partnerships (PPPs) to deliver
public-use infrastructure. PPP transfer project risk from
government to the private sector through fixed price
agreements, guaranteed delivery dates and performance
guarantees. About $4.7 billion in PPP projects are
completed or under construction, while an additional $2.7
billion in projects is at the competitive selection stage.
More than 20 PPP projects have been, or are scheduled to
be, delivered on time and on budget.
The threshold for the small business tax rate has been
increased to $400,000. Business tax burdens in British
Columbia are among the lowest anywhere in North
America.
British Columbia has an on-going program aimed at

modernizing the regulatory system to promote innovation
and economic opportunity, while protecting the public
interest. Since the program began in 2001, regulatory
burdens have been reduced by over 40 per cent.
A number of major personal income tax reductions have

also been enacted, cutting income tax rates by a third, with
the result that British Columbia has the lowest income tax
rates in Canada for incomes up to $111,000.
British Columbia has been long recognized as a North

American leader in advancing environmental sustainability.
The B.C. government recognizes that an attractive
business climate addresses long-term sustainability
JUNE 2008
Slightly over half of all property taxes raised goes to fund

the City; the remainder funds regional transportation,
school and other activities.
photo: istockphoto/chris schmidt
Net City debt outstanding at the end of 2006 amounted

to approximately $730 per capita. Except for local
improvements, all City debt has a 10 year term. The City
enjoys a triple A credit rating. Tax arrears have declined
from $35 million in 2002 to $22 million in 2006 (2.21 per
cent of taxes levied).
The City has a strong commitment to economic
development, outlined in Guiding Principles adopted
in 2006. The City and Metro Vancouver have their own
substantial environmental sustainability programs, which
complement those of the B.C. government.
Business tax burdens

in british columbia
are among the lowest
anywhere in north
america
issues, such as climate change, as well as short term

returns on investment. Its 2008 Budget introduced one of
the most progressive climate action plans in the world,
aimed at reducing GHG emissions to 33 per cent below
2007 levels by 2020. A key element of the plan is a revenue
neutral carbon tax, set at $10 per tonne of emissions in
2008, rising to $30 per tonne by 2012. Taxes raised on
carbon will be offset by tax reductions, so the net impact
on business and individual taxpayers will be zero.
The carbon tax is part of a much broader set of climate
change initiatives, including incentives and tax reductions
for energy efficiency upgrades; increased funding for
research and energy-related technologies; a cap and
trade system for large emitters; major transit system
expansions; and new demand power management
systems.
Demographics
The regional population has been growing about 1.3 per
cent annually in recent years; increases are expected
to continue over the next decade, with the population
reaching 3 million by 2030. While some suburban
municipalities are growing more rapidly, the city of
Vancouver continues to see healthy population growth.
City of Vancouver
With the natural rate of population growth steadily

declining, population growth is driven primarily by
immigration. Canadian and B.C. government policies
encourage immigration of people with business and
employment-related skills. Immigrants account for 40 per
cent of the regions population.
The City of Vancouver operates under the Vancouver

Charter, a statute of the B.C. government. Subject to the
terms of the Charter, the City raises its own revenues, and
issues its own debt.
The Citys 2006 Annual Financial
Report notes total revenues of
just over $1 billion, of which
48 per cent was from property
taxes and an additional 43 per
cent from user fees and cost
recoveries. Property taxes are
levied on current market values
as assessed by a Provincial
agency. The 2007 tax rate
amounted to about 2.5 per cent
of assessed value for most
commercial properties.
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JUNE 2008
array of languages and cultural backgrounds. More than

40 per cent of the regions population regularly speaks
a language other than English or French at home.
Cantonese, Mandarin, other Chinese dialects and Punjabi
are the most widely used non-English languages. At
the workplace English remains the dominant language,
but close to 6 per cent of the workforce reports working
predominantly using a language other than English or
French.
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Economic Structure
Over the past quarter century, Vancouvers economy
has experienced rapid structural change. Vancouvers
defining economic role has evolved from a service
centre for the provinces resource economy to a dynamic
urban centre with strong, multi-faceted international
connections that have strengthened dramatically with
the rise of the economies of Asia Pacific. The economy is
now highly diversified thanks to strengths in many new
areas including significant clusters in knowledge-based
sectors.
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This high proportion of foreign born individuals provides

Vancouver with a talented and diverse labour pool, with
strong international connections.
Immigrants to Canada are well educated: among those
immigrating between 2001 and 2006, half had a university
degree. Among working age individuals, immigrants
account for half of all doctorate degrees and over 40 per
cent of masters degrees. Immigrants are also, overall,
younger than native born Canadians.
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According to the OECD, Canada has the highest proportion

of people aged 25-64 with a college or university certificate
among all OECD countries.
Greater Vancouvers population is better educated than the

Canadian average. According to the 2006 Census, 31 per
cent of the working age population has a university degree
(Canadian average: 23 per cent) and fully 57 per cent has a
university or college education (Canadian average: 48 per
cent).
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With a high proportion of immigrants, it is not surprising

Vancouver has a very diverse population with a vast
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As in all metropolitan areas,

sectors providing services to
the local population account
for the greatest proportion of
jobs. Retail trade, for example,
employs nearly 11 per cent of
the regional workforce, while
healthcare and social services
accounts for 9.3 per cent. An
on-going construction boom
has raised this sectors share
of jobs from 5.1 per cent in
2001 to 6.4 per cent in 2006.
Among export-oriented sectors:

The relatively small and diversified manufacturing
sector employs 98,000 people, or 8.5 per cent of the
workforce. Although this is a smaller share than many
other large cities, manufacturing is an important
part of the economic landscape. Many of the jobs are
in management and administration rather than in
production.
The strong tourism sector is reflected in 8 per cent of
all jobs being in accommodation and food services a
higher proportion than in other Canadian cities.
The professional, scientific and technical services
sector employs 76,000 people, reflecting the regions
strong orientation to export of knowledge, particularly
related to resource industries, engineering and
sustainability.
The arts, entertainment and recreation industry,
as well as the film/TV/sound industry are far more
prominent than in other Canadian cities.
The financial services sector is a larger part of the
economy than in all other Canadian cities except
Toronto.
Vancouvers global gateway role is evident in the
comparatively high proportion (5.7 per cent) of people
working in the transportation industry.
Vancouver and British

Columbia are enjoying
one of the strongest
economic expansions on
record
Economic Performance
Vancouver and British Columbia are enjoying one of
the strongest economic expansions on record. Over the
past five years, the provincial economy has consistently
outpaced the Canadian economy.
Looking ahead, the province, propelled in large part by
strength in the Greater Vancouver region, is positioned to
continue to outperform the national benchmark. There
is widespread agreement among economists and other
forecasters that British Columbia will remain at or near
the top of the provincial growth rankings in the coming
years. Among other factors, a competitive business
and tax climate, Asia Pacific and the growing gateway
role, the hosting of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and
JUNE 2008
Paralympic Winter Games, high rates of immigration,

high levels of investment and construction, a diverse and
skilled workforce and a growing advanced technology
sector all contribute to the positive outlook.
The strong economy is translating into rising incomes.
After allowing for inflation, British Columbians have
enjoyed strong growth in average disposable incomes.
In addition, B.C.s comparative performance has been
impressive with average incomes growing more quickly
than the Canadian benchmark and exceeding gains seen
in most other provinces.
According to the 2006 Census, employment in Greater
Vancouver reached 1.1 million in 2006, a gain of 11 per
cent from 2001. This is stronger than the gain recorded
over the previous 5-year period and is the fastest pace of
job growth among Canadas three largest metropolitan
areas.
Vancouvers unemployment rate is currently at record
lows. At just 4 per cent it is slightly below the provincewide rate and well below the national unemployment rate.
Cost Comparisons
KPMG Consulting recently released its 2008 analysis of
business costs in 10 countries (Australia, Canada, France,
Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, United
Kingdom, United States), and for 136 cities in those
countries (see www.competitivealternatives.com) the
major findings were:
Canada, the U.S. and Australia have the most
favourable costs among established industrialized
countries, with less than 1 per cent difference among
these countries.
Since 2006, Canada has gained ground relative to
European countries.
Software industry costs are 3.5 per cent lower in
Canada than in the U.S., while R&D costs are 3.7 per
cent lower.
Effective income tax rates for a wide range of
operations are lowest in the Netherlands, Canada and
the U.K.
Canada has the highest rate of adult participation in
the workforce.
Compared to other major Western cities in North America,
Vancouver offers a lower cost of doing business. Business
costs in Vancouver are lower than in major cities like
Seattle, San Diego, San Jose and Las Vegas.
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this document is accurate and
current to May 1, 2008, however, neither the City of Vancouver nor the Vancouver Economic
Development Commission accepts any liability for actions taken based on this material.
the eleven industries profiled in

the following pages are examples of
vancouvers many internationally
competitive sectors.
sector
profiles
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS DIGITAL MEDIA
JUNE 2008
Vancouver has the perfect

ecosystem for a thriving digital
media industry: outstanding
research and educational assets
in science, technology and
design, and a strong base of
artistic and creative employees.
Industry Snapshot
British Columbia has more than 600 digital media
companies, which employ about 16,000 people and
generate $2.3 billion in annual sales. Greater Vancouver
accounts for more than 60 per cent of the digital media
companies in the province.
Digital media companies currently operate in five areas:
interactive design; digital entertainment and games;
digital film, animation and special effects; mobile content
and applications including games; and
E-learning. By 2010, products developed by Vancouvers
digital sectors will impact many sectors for example,
health care, education and military activities as
practical applications and training tools, and as next
generation technology innovations.
Vancouver has one of the top video game clusters
in the world, with presence from major publishers
including EA (Electronic Arts), Nintendo, THQ, Vivendi/
Activision, Disney and Microsoft.
Electronic Arts studio in Vancouver is the largest of its
kind in the world.
Digital Media has a strong symbiotic relationship with
the established film and TV sector, making Vancouver a
creative force in North America.
Competitive Advantages
Vancouver is packed with creative and original minds, and
digital media companies cite access to a vast talent pool
as a top reason for doing business in Vancouver.
A tolerant and welcoming attitude towards other cultures,
ethnicities and lifestyles draws talented individuals and
globally-oriented companies to Vancouver from all over
the world.
Vancouvers downtown, renowned for a unique blend of
residential, commercial, arts and cultural space, is the
photo: 2008 Jupiterimages corporation
DIGITAL MEDIA
perfect environment for digital media - a collaborative

confluence of science, technology and art. Thirty per
cent of the citys digital media companies are located
in Vancouvers business core, resulting in a high rate of
strategic relationships and lucrative partnerships. Most
of the provinces digital media companies are actively
involved in collaborative ventures and partnerships with
U.S. and other foreign publishers.
British Columbia has

more than 600 digital
media companies, which
generate $2.3 billion in
annual sales
All of Vancouvers major post-secondary institutions are
engaged in digital media, providing outstanding facilities,
training and research services to the private sector. Four
institutions recently established together a new location
for digital media studies, the Great Northern Way Campus.
The campus offers a Masters degree that will prepare
digital media professionals with advanced skills and
critical management training.
Vancouver is geographically positioned to leverage
relationships with L.A.s entertainment hub, software
centres in Seattle and Redmond, Washington, and strong
markets for services in Asia.
Incentives
The Government of British Columbias New Media Tax
Credit is a 30 per cent non-refundable income tax credit
for venture capital corporations investing in eligible digital
media businesses.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS DIGITAL MEDIA
Early-stage ventures are also eligible for support from the

B.C. governments $90 million B.C. Renaissance Capital
Fund.
The B.C. government also offers a 25 per cent refundable
tax credit for Canadian or international film and television
production companies that incur eligible labour costs in
B.C. Labour costs for digital animation and visual effects
receive a 15 per cent credit. Recipient corporations do
not have to be Canadian-owned, or have an interest in the
copyright. Enhanced credits are available for B.C.-owned
and controlled companies.
JUNE 2008
>SIGGRAPH International, Vancouver Chapter

www.siggraph.ca
Vancouver Chapter of the Special Interest Group for Computer Graphics
of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM). SIGGRAPHs 2011
conference will be held in Vancouver, its first conference outside the
U.S. Over 24,000 attendees from around the world are expected.
>Simon Fraser University School for Interactive Arts and Technology
www.siat.sfu.ca
School offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in digital media; it
also conducts interdisciplinary research that draws on science, art and
design.
Resource Organizations
>Telefilm Canada
www.telefilm.gc.ca
Canadian government cultural agency with a Vancouver office that
provides the film, TV and digital media industries with financial, strategic
and distribution support for products that reflect Canadian society.
>B.C. Film
www.bcfilm.bc.ca
Non-profit that administers B.C. film credits and provides support for the
development and marketing of film, TV and digital media products from
B.C.
>University of British Columbia

Media Graphics and Interdisciplinary Centre
www.magic.ubc.ca
Research laboratory that conducts research on the interaction of people
with digital media.
>B.C. Innovation Council

www.bcic.ca
Crown Agency that fosters innovation and commercialization, in
partnership with government, industry and academia.
>Vancouver Film School

www.vfs.com
Private school offering one-year vocational programs in animation, digital
design, game design, sound design and writing.
>B.C. Ministry of Economic Development

www.investbc.ca
www.equitycapital.gov.bc.ca
Provincial government department that promotes commerce and investment
in B.C. and administers B.C.s venture capital programs.
>Vancouver Institute of Media Arts (VanArts)

www.vanarts.com
Institute offering industry-based diploma and certificate programs in
animation, gaming and visual effects.
>B.C. Technology Industry Association (BCTIA)

www.bctia.org
Non-profit organization that supports the growth of B.C.s technology
industry through a variety of programs and initiatives.
>Centre for Digital Media at Great Northern Way Campus
www.gnwc.ca/mdm
Partnership between four institutions: British Columbia Institute
of Technology, Emily Carr Institute of Art + Design, Simon Fraser
University and the University of British Columbia. The Centre offers an
innovative, professional Masters of Digital Media degree recognized and
accredited by each of the participating institutions.
>VIDFEST
www.vidfest.com
Vancouvers international digital media festival and Canadas largest
digital media event.
>International Game Developers Association Vancouver

www.igda.org/vancouver
Local association of video game developers, affiliated with the
international video game industry association.
>Intersections Digital Studios Emily Carr Institute of Art + Design
www.eciad.ca/research/ids
New $5 million research facility and studio where students and
professionals collaborate on interdisciplinary projects.
>Mobile Muse
www.mobilemuse.ca
Local network of small and large companies, industry associations,
community organizations and academic institutions engaged in the
development of mobile media.
>New Media BC
www.newmediabc.com
Vancouver-based digital media industry association.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS EDUCATION
JUNE 2008
Vancouvers high-quality
educational institutions, cultural
diversity and enviable lifestyle
have earned it an outstanding
reputation in international
education, at the post-secondary
and K-12 levels, as well as in
English language studies.
Industry Snapshot
Vancouver and British Columbia are recognized nationally
and internationally for excellence in education, attracting
about 150,000 international students annually, the
majority of them studying in the Vancouver region.
Canada ranks first in G7 countries in high school
science scores, and second in educational attainment
and expenditures.
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is regularly
ranked among the top 50 universities worldwide in
various international publications in 2007 UBC placed
33rd in the Times Higher Education rankings and 36th
in rankings by Shanghais Jiao Tong University.
Macleans magazines latest ranking of Canadian
universities rated Simon Fraser University (SFU)
top among mid-sized institutions for medical and
science grants, faculty awards, and social science and
humanities grants. The university placed second for
overall academic excellence.
British Columbia was the first province in Canada to
accept international students in the public K-12 system
(10,000 K-12 international students in 2006-2007).
In addition to two major research universities, Greater
Vancouver has an array of outstanding educational
institutions, including the second-largest K-12 school
system in B.C., the provinces only polytechnic institute,
about 20 public and private colleges and institutes
offering post-secondary qualifications, and a cohort of
private language and career training schools catering
to the immigrant population. About eight per cent of
the workforce is in the education sector; teachers and
professors make up the third-largest occupation group in
the city.
photo: VANCOUVER FILM SCHOOL
education
Education in Vancouver is truly international. More than

40 per cent of the population has a mother tongue other
than English or French, and public school students speak
57 unique languages.
About one-third of all international students in Canada
choose to study in B.C. International students come
to Vancouver and B.C. for a superior education that is
affordable relative to competing jurisdictions. In addition,
the regions quality of life is well known internationally,
as is the citys idyllic setting. The living environment
is safe and inclusive, with quality health care, social
services and public education.
Relative to the U.S., immigration processes are easy to
navigate for students, and recent changes in regulations
have made it easier for international students to work in
B.C. following completion of their studies.
Educational institutions have leveraged Vancouvers
diversity to build strong multicultural and international
linkages and programs. These linkages benefit local
businesses by strengthening their access to foreign
language skills, foreign business practices, overseas
talent and potential business partners.
British Columbias public K-12 schools have been
accepting international students for 25 years and offer
an array of programs high school matriculation;
single-semester; short-term, intensive English
courses; and special programs for elementary-level
international students.
Both UBC and SFU have extensive linkages to peer
universities in Asia Pacific countries and elsewhere.
JUNE 2008
More than 30 private language schools operate in

Vancouver, many of them in the downtown core,
focusing primarily on English as a second language
instruction.
Fifty-eight private vocational and career-training
institutions operate in Vancouver, with close to 50,000
enrollments.
British Columbias colleges and universities operate a
variety of programs overseas, generating $2 billion in
revenue annually.
The University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser
University offer world-class expertise and facilities for
applied research and discovery:
UBC became the first Canadian university to generate
more than $100 million in cumulative licensing revenue
from the sale of technologies and spin-off companies.
SFU has created more than 70 spin-off companies.
Four post-secondary institutions in Vancouver have
come together to create Great Northern Way Campus,
a collaborative partnership with industry to develop,
test and deploy new media and sustainability-related
technologies.
Over 40% of the

population has a mother
tongue other than
English or French,
and public school
students speak 57 unique
languages
Incentives
The Government of British Columbia is the biggest investor
in education in the province and is spending an additional
$1 billion annually to add 25,000 new seats at colleges and
universities by 2010 about 5,000 of them in Vancouver.
An additional 650 graduate student places are also being
funded.
photo: SIMON FRASER UNIVERSITY
Vancouvers B.C. Institute of Technology is home to the

first Confucius Institute in Canada - a partnership with
China to facilitate knowledge of Chinese culture and
language in British Columbia.
> B.C. Career Colleges Association
www.bccca.com
Organization of private sector post-secondary education suppliers.
> B.C. Centre for International Education
www.bccie.bc.ca
Non-profit that promotes international education.
> B.C. College Presidents
www.choosebccolleges.ca
Organization to advance the interests of B.C. colleges.
> B.C. Electronic Library Network
www.eln.bc.ca
A partnership of the B.C. government and post-secondary libraries.
Based at SFU, it facilitates access to information for learners and
educators throughout B.C.
> B.C. Institute of Technology
www.bcit.ca
Full-time students 16,000; part-time 32,000. Western Canadas premier
polytechnic institute, offering degree and certificate programs in a variety
of fields, including transportation, digital media, construction, health
sciences and natural resources.
> Canadian Association of Private Language Schools
www.capls.com
Vancouver-based national association of private English and French
language schools, representing more than 100 schools across Canada.
> Centre for Policy Studies in Higher Education and Training
www.chet.educ.ubc.ca
Centre for policy research on educational issues.
> Emily Carr Institute of Art + Design
www.eciad.ca
Students: 1,600. One of B.C.s oldest colleges and one of Canadas
leading arts institutions, offering undergraduate and graduate programs
in visual arts, media arts and design.
> Government of British Columbia
B.C. Ministry of Advanced Education
www.learnlivebc.ca
B.C. Ministry of Education (K-12)

www.gov.bc.ca/bced
B.C. Ministry of Economic Development
www.investbc.ca
> International Public School Education Association of B.C.
www.studyinbc.org
Association of public school districts in B.C. that accept international
students.
> Langara College
www.langara.bc.ca
Full and part time students: 23,000. College offering Bachelors,
Associate, Diploma and Certificates studies in creative and applied arts,
health and human services, liberal arts and languages, management
and business, science and technology, and social and cultural studies.
> Learning Cities Initiative Canadian Council on Learning
www.ccl-cca.ca
A joint initiative of the City of Vancouver and the Canadian Council on
Learning to develop a community lifelong learning strategy for the city.
> Private Career Training Institutions Agency of British Columbia
www.pctia.bc.ca
Agency authorized by the B.C. Ministry of Education to oversee private
career-training institutions.
> Simon Fraser University (SFU)
www.sfu.ca
Full time students: 24,000. A public research university with three
campuses in Greater Vancouver, including one in the city of Vancouvers
business core.
> University of British Columbia (UBC)
www.ubc.ca
Full-time students: 44,000. A major
economic engine in Vancouver, generating nearly 40,000 jobs and making
an estimated local economic impact of $6.3 billion.
> University Presidents Council of B.C.
www.tupc.bc.ca
Organization to provide leadership in the development of the public
university system.
> Vancouver Community College
www.vcc.ca
Full time students: 25,000. The college offers general and specialized
education in key industry professions, including health, technology and
business, as well as English as a second language and life-long learning.
> Vancouver School Board (Public K-12 School District)
www.vsb.bc.ca
Full time students: 56,000; continuing education 44,000. The second
largest public school system in B.C., operating 91 elementary schools, 18
secondary schools and seven adult education centres.
JUNE 2008
FILM &
TELEVISION
PRODUCTION
Vancouver is the core of the
third-largest foreign film and
production centre in North
America, known worldwide as
Hollywood North.
Industry Snapshot
British Columbia accounts for about 60 per cent of all
foreign location film and TV production in Canada. Film
makers have been attracted by B.C.s natural beauty since
the late 19th century. Major studios were developed in
Greater Vancouver in the late 1980s, and the Government
of British Columbia started providing assistance to
the industry in 1998. Total direct and indirect full time
equivalent jobs generated by film and TV production in B.C.
are estimated at over 36,000.
Total spending on film and TV production in B.C.
amounted to nearly $950 million in 2007. The industry
has a strong balance of international and domestic
production activity. Domestic productions have increased
significantly in recent years and now account for 40 per
cent of total
local spending.
The Vancouver region is home to most of B.C.s production
and post-production activities, with sufficient capacity
to support the biggest Hollywood movies in casting, setbuilding, location filming, and audio and special effects.
Vancouver is home to some of North Americas most
expansive and sophisticated studio spaces and facilities,
including over 200,000 square feet of warehouse conversion
stages, and numerous FX and sound stages.
Vancouvers main advantage is the expertise and talent
it has developed during the last two decades. It is now
capable of handling every aspect of production for forty
projects simultaneously. The resources available in
Vancouver have been created by a high level of activity,
combined with a world-class educational infrastructure
that offers dozens of programs on all aspects of film and
JUNE 2008
photo: ISTOCKPHOTO/JEFF GINIEWICZ
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS film & television production
TV development, production, marketing and distribution.

An experienced and committed local crew base of 30,000
delivers services at the level of their counterparts in
Hollywood.
Vancouver has the benefit of being near Hollywood
and sharing the same time zone. It also offers a highly
versatile physical setting the New York Times once
called it the city that can substitute for all of America.
In addition to excellent studio facilities, Vancouver has
very strong capabilities in post-production. It is home to a
number of companies that have created state-of-the-art,
award winning visual effects. Vancouvers strong digital
media sector is a major asset that will
be increasingly important as
film/TV and digital media continue to blend.
Support and collaboration among a network of
government agencies, industry associations, festivals and
awards, and professional organizations is a key element in
the industrys success.
Incentives
The B.C. government offers a 25 per cent refundable tax
credit for Canadian or international film and television
production companies that incur eligible labour costs in
B.C. Labour costs for digital animation and visual effects
receive a 15 per cent credit. Recipient corporations do
not have to be Canadian-owned, or have an interest in the
copyright. Enhanced credits are available for B.C.-owned
and controlled companies.
The Government of Canada provides tax credits for
qualified foreign film and video production, amounting
to 16 per cent of Canadian labour costs, through the
Canadian Audio-Visual Certification Office.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS film & television production
JUNE 2008
The International Financial Centre offers refunds of

provincial corporate income taxes to firms permanently
established in B.C. that pursue qualified international
financial activities such as film distribution.
> B.C. Arts Council

www.bcartscouncil.ca
Provincial government agency that supports arts and culture and makes
awards.
> B.C. Film Commission
www.bcfilmcommission.com
Provincial government agency that promotes the interests of B.C.s film
and production industry worldwide.
> B.C. Film
www.bcfilm.bc.ca
Non-profit that administers B.C. film credits and provides support for
the development and marketing of film, TV and digital media products
from B.C.
> B.C. Institute of Film Professionals
www.bcifp.com
Non-profit that brings together film professionals from the private,
public and educational sectors, focusing on training and human resource
issues.
> B.C. Ministry of Economic Development

www.investbc.ca
Provincial government department that promotes commerce and
investment in B.C. and administers B.C.s venture capital programs.
> Canadian Audio-Visual Certification Office
www.pch.gc.ca/cavco
Office in the Canadian Government Department of Canadian Heritage
that provides support for film/TV production.
> Cineworks
www.cineworks.ca
Production cooperative that provides members with equipment,
information and support to make independent movies.
> City of Vancouver Film Office
film.office@vancouver.ca
City department that assists with permits and information regarding
filming in the City of Vancouver.
photo: ISTOCKPHOTO/Haider Yousuf
> SIGGRAPH International, Vancouver Chapter

www.siggraph.ca
Vancouver Chapter of the Special Interest Group for Computer Graphics
of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM). SIGGRAPHs 2011
conference will be held in Vancouver, its first conference outside the U.S.
Over 24,000 attendees from around the world are expected.
> Telefilm Canada
www.telefilm.gc.ca
Canadian government cultural agency with a Vancouver office that
provides the film, TV and digital media industries with financial, strategic
and distribution support for products that reflect Canadian society.
> Vancouver Asian Film Festival
www.vaff.org
Event for Asian film makers to showcase their work to Asian and nonAsian audiences in North America.
> Vancouver International Film Festival
www.viff.org
Highly successful annual film festival that attracts 150,000 people to
about 600 screenings of films from 50 countries each year.
> FTXWestDigital Entertainment Exhibition and Conference

www.ftxwest.com
Annual exhibition and conference focusing on the latest technology in
film, TV and digital media.
> International Financial Centre
www.ifcbc.com
Non-profit society that promotes B.C. as a centre for international
financial activity.
> Motion Picture Production Association of B.C.
www.mppia.com
Industry association for film, television and commercial production.
> New Media BC
www.newmediabc.com
Industry association for digital media companies.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS financial services
JUNE 2008
Vancouver has a diversified

economy, growing business
ties with Asia, and increasingly
favourable tax policies ideal for
financial services firms to thrive.
Industry Snapshot
Financial services companies employ more than 55,000
people in Greater Vancouver. This workforce is highly
educated and loyal, with relatively low turnover due to
Vancouvers quality of life. The industry generates one
new job in other sectors for every new job in the financial
services sector.
Financial services started as a critical business support
for mining and forestry. Now, local financial services
companies operate in global markets, leveraging and
facilitating Vancouvers position as a global commercial
gateway. Shared language and customs with the
United States are critical assets, as are strong cultural
connections to emerging Asian economies.
Vancouver performs particularly well in four financial
services sub-sectors: banking, credit unions, international
financial transactions, and venture capital investment.
All five of Canadas largest banks have significant
operations in Vancouver. Several international banks
also have offices in the city, including the Canadian
headquarters of Londons HSBC - one of the worlds
largest banks.
Cooperative banking institutions have carved out a strong
niche in the community, doubling assets between 1996 and
2006 and accounting for 20 per cent of the local banking
market. The credit union system in B.C. is the largest
among the English-speaking Canadian provinces.
Through the Provinces International Financial Activities
Act (IFAA), Vancouver is developing an important niche in
international treasury and financial functions, including
factoring, import/export financing, foreign exchange,
and back-office support. The IFAA allows a corporation
carrying out qualified international financial activities
from a base in B.C. to get a refund of up to 100 per cent of
provincial corporate income taxes.
Photo: Albert Normandin
financial
services
Venture capital investment in B.C., which was more than

$300 million in 2007, accounts for up to 20 per cent of
venture capital investment in Canada. Vancouvers venture
capital investments focus on information technology, clean
technology, life sciences and digital media.
A robust, diversified economy and a very favourable tax
environment make Vancouvers financial services sector
highly competitive. Activities in banking, credit unions,
international financial transactions, and venture capital
investment are exceptionally competitive.
The B.C. government has dramatically improved the
climate for investment and financial services activities.
The corporate capital tax is being phased out over three
years, starting in April 2008. Business tax rates in B.C. are
among the lowest in North America, thanks to a one per
cent reduction in the provincial corporate tax rate to 11
per cent. The rate will drop to ten per cent by 2012.
Strong credit unions increase the competitiveness of the
local financial services market and provide an important
alternative source of financing for small businesses.
Credit unions thrive by offering unique products and
services that differentiate them from traditional banks
and cater to local preferences. VanCity Credit Union, for
example, has created a suite of investment products that
appeal to environmentally-conscious Vancouverites.
For international financial transactions that qualify under
the International Financial Activities Act (IFAA), B.C. offers
an effective tax rate lower than in the provinces of Quebec,
Alberta and Ontario, and lower than in most states in the
U.S.
Venture capital deals in Vancouver rank among the largest
in North America. Life sciences and clean technology
spin offs from strong university labs have succeeded in

Vancouver because of strong venture capital activity, as
have industry spin offs in information technology and new
media. Venture capital investors in Vancouver and B.C. are
expanding syndication activities with the U.S. and other
international partners. Day4 Energy, a solar technology
developer, completed a $100 million IPO in 2007, one
of the largest advanced-energy venture capital deals in
North America that year.
Incentives
Research & Development
The Scientific Research and Experimental Development
(SR&ED) program is a federal tax incentive designed to
encourage research and development in Canada. Qualifying
non-Canadian companies are eligible to receive tax
credits of 20 per cent of qualified expenditures. Canadian
companies receive enhanced credits. The B.C. government
adds a ten per cent tax credit for qualifying Canadian and
non-Canadian corporations that conduct R&D in British
Columbia.
The National Research Council of Canadas Industrial
Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP) provides
a range of technical and business-oriented advisory
services to support growth-oriented Canadian small
and medium-sized enterprises. This can include nonrepayable contributions to Canadian firms interested
in research to develop their services, products and
processes. The program has contributed more than
$570 million to more than 30,000 projects. In 2007-2008,
approximately $13 million was available to firms in B.C.
International Financial Transactions
The International Financial Activity Act (IFAA) allows
corporations carrying out specified international financial
activities in B.C., where one part of the transaction is with
a non resident, to recoup up to 100 per cent of provincial
corporate income taxes.
There is also a 75 per cent reduction in B.C. personal taxes
for five years for registered IFA specialists recruited from
abroad.
Venture Capital
The B.C. government offers 4 different tax credit programs
to B.C. residents and taxable corporations.
A refundable tax credit of 30 per cent of investments,
up to a maximum of $60,000 in credits per year, for
investments in small B.C. businesses.
Tax credits of 30 per cent to investors who provide
venture capital to small businesses conducting R&D
on proprietary technologies and developing interactive
JUNE 2008
Photo: ISTOCKPHOTO/KRISTIAN DAHL
digital media products. Investment must be made

through a venture capital corporation or directly to an
eligible business corporation. Early-stage ventures
are also eligible for support from the $90 million B.C.
Renaissance Capital Fund.
The Employee Share Ownership Program (ESOP)
provides B.C. employees of Canadian companies with a
20 per cent tax credit (maximum $2000 per annum) for
investments in their employers businesses.
A combined federal and provincial tax credit allows
investors to receive up to 30 per cent back on
investments in labour-sponsored investment funds.
> Angel Forum
www.angelforum.org
The oldest and largest angel group in Canada. It introduces emerging
companies to private equity investors, with more than $26 million
invested in companies since 1997.
> Association for Corporate Growth
http://chapters.acg.org/vancouver
One of two Canadian chapters of the worldwide ACG organization
that offers professional development opportunities for professionals
involved in corporate growth, corporate development, and mergers and
acquisitions.
> British Columbia Business Council
www.bcbc.com
Association of over 200 businesses in B.C., including firms in the financial
services sector, working to enhance the provinces competitive position
and business environment.
www.investbc.ca
> British Columbia Technology Industry Association

www.bctia.org
industry through a variety of events and programs.
> Canada Revenue Agency
www.cra.gc.ca
www.cra-arc.gc.ca/sred
Canadian government department that administers the SR&ED program;
it has an office in Vancouver.
> Canadian Financing Forum
www.financingforum.com
Vancouver-based organization that hosts one of the largest venture
capital gatherings in Western Canada, matching North American
corporate and venture capital investors with technology entrepreneurs.
> Credit Union Central
www.cucbc.com
Central banking facility and trade association for B.C.s 48 independent
credit unions, managing a liquidity pool of $3.8 billion.
www.ifcbc.com
financial activity.
> Mortgage Brokers Association
www.mbabc.ca
Industry association representing mortgage brokers, major financial
institutions, mortgage insurers, title insurers, lawyers and notaries,
credit reporting agencies, appraisers and other companies related to the
mortgage industry.
JUNE 2008
Business tax rates in

British Columbia are
among the lowest in
North America
> TSX Venture Exchange
www.tsx.com
Public stock exchange for emerging Canadian businesses, providing
entrepreneurs with access to capital and offering investors a regulated
venture investment market. Maintains an office in Vancouver.
> University of British Columbia
Sauder School of Business
www.sauder.ubc.ca
Business school offering specialization in finance at the
undergraduate and graduate levels.
University Industry Liaison Office
www.uilo.ubc.ca
University office responsible for commercializing university research,
serving as a link between university researchers, entrepreneurs and
businesses.
> Vancouver Angel Network for Technology Enterprises
www.wutif.ca/angels
Networking organization that introduces early stage investors and
mentors to promising technology ventures.
> New Ventures BC

www.newventuresbc.com
Province-wide competition of technology business ideas, designed to
help early-stage entrepreneurs develop the business skills needed to
bring new technologies to market.
> Vancouver Enterprise Forum

www.vef.org
Forum to advance technology entrepreneurship through monthly
education and networking meetings.
> National Research Council of Canada

www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Canadian government agency that provides support to small and mediumsized businesses. It has an office in Vancouver.
> Ready to Rocket

www.readytorocket.com
Company that profiles emerging technology companies with the
greatest potential for future revenue growth, investment and market
breakthroughs.
> Simon Fraser University
Global Asset and Wealth Management Program
http://business.sfu.ca/gawm
Masters in Business Administration for financial services
professionals, offering practical experience in managing a studentrun investment portfolio of $10 million.
University Industry Liaison Office
www.sfu.ca/uilo
University office that facilitates the creation of universityindustry research, the development of partnerships, and the
commercialization of research.
> Thompson Financial
www.canadavc.com
Comprehensive database of information and data on private equity
transactions in Canada.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS information & communications technology [ict]
JUNE 2008
Access to top-notch talent,

world-class R&D and businesscost savings make Vancouver an
ideal environment for technology
businesses.
Industry Snapshot
Greater Vancouvers Information and Communications
Technology (ICT) sector represents about 70 per cent of
the ICT industry in British Columbia, which comprises
more than 6,000 companies and more than 46,000
employees. The sector is predominantly service-oriented,
and focused on computer systems design and related
services, engineering services, software publishing,
wired telecommunications, and computer and peripheral
equipment manufacturing.
Most companies are small service providers, but Vancouver
is also a location of choice for major ICT companies:
Global Firms: Microsoft Corporation, Intel, IBM,
Broadcom, 3M, Eastman Kodak Company, Harmon
International Industries, Sophos, Oracle, Business
Objects, Nokia, Honeywell International Raytheon and
Seiko Epson.
Local Firms: A number of large anchor companies
incorporated in Vancouver have provided a solid
foundation for growth, including MDA, Sierra Systems,
TELUS, PMC-Sierra and Sierra Wireless.
Between 1997 and 2004, B.C. had the highest growth in
Canada in the following ICT categories: employment, R&D
spending, and software and computer services revenue.
Wireless employs 6,000

people in B.C. and most
wireless companies are
cash-flow positive
Wireless technology businesses constitute a strong ICT
sub-sector. The province now has some 500 wireless
Photo: ISTOCKPHOTO/YUROK
information &
communications
technology [ict]
companies - half in wireless technology and half in

wireless-related businesses. Wireless employs 6,000
people in B.C. and most wireless companies are cash-flow
positive. Industry revenue grew over 50 per cent between
2004 and 2007, and tops $1 billion.
Vancouvers success in ICT has been enabled by strong
research infrastructure, an established network of
seasoned professionals, CEOs and angel investors, and
close ties to the U.S. and Asia.
Vancouvers infrastructure is bolstered by proven ICT
research and development capacity, including facilities,
specialized equipment, and a large cadre of researchers
and scientists. In addition to two world-class universities
that spin off innovative companies, the Vancouver region
is home to a variety of ICT research and development
facilities, including WestGrid, a $50 million project
linking supercomputers across Canada; the IBM Pacific
Development Centre, which develops custom software
solutions; and a Nokia R&D centre that develops Internetfriendly mobile devices. Nanotechnology research to
advance ICT is growing rapidly at Vancouvers two research
universities.
A recent University of British Columbia study found that
technology companies in B.C. deliver the best return on
R&D investment in North America.
The growing pool of skilled ICT workers in B.C. includes
67,000 engineers, IT professionals and production
workers. Welcoming immigration policies contribute to
the quality of Vancouvers ICT workforce, a significant
factor in Microsofts recent decision to open a software
development operation in Greater Vancouver. Family
and business ties to Asia, and foreign students at local
educational institutions, are additional sources of talent.
JUNE 2008
Incentives
Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP) provides
a range of technical and business-oriented advisory
services to support growth-oriented Canadian small
and medium-sized enterprises. This can include nonrepayable contributions to Canadian firms interested
in research to develop their services, products and
processes. The program has contributed more than
$570 million to more than 30,000 projects. In 2007-2008,
approximately $13 million was available to firms in B.C.
(SR&ED) program is a federal tax incentive designed
to encourage research and development in Canada.
Qualifying non-Canadian companies are eligible
to receive tax credits of 20 per cent of qualified
expenditures. Canadian companies receive enhanced
credits. The B.C. government adds a ten per cent
tax credit for qualifying Canadian and non-Canadian
corporations that conduct R&D in British Columbia.
Venture Capital
British Columbia offers tax credits of 30 per cent
to qualified resident investors who provide venture
capital to small businesses conducting R&D on
proprietary technologies and developing interactive
digital media products. Investment must be made
through a venture capital corporation or directly to an
eligible business corporation. Early-stage ventures are
also eligible for support from the B.C. governments
$90 million B.C. Renaissance Capital Fund.
> AceTech
www.acetech.org
Forum of CEOs of technology and life science companies.
>B.C. Innovation Council
www.bcic.ca
partnership with government, industry and academia. The Council
provides research funding, scholarships and other resources.
>B.C. Ministry of Economic Development
www.investbc.ca
photo: ISTOCKPHOTO/narvikk
Direct access to the United States market is a major

advantage for ICT in Vancouver, while links to emerging
markets in China and India are critical to the future
strength of the sector. These links are facilitated by
Vancouvers award-winning international airport, which
allows ICT firms to quickly move people and products to
key destinations.

>B.C.Net
www.bc.net
Consortium of post-secondary institutions in B.C. providing high-speed
Internet capacity for advanced research.
>B.C. Technology Industry Association
www.bctia.org
Non-profitorganization that supports the growth of B.C.s technology
>Canada Revenue Agency
www.cra.gc.ca
>Mobile Muse
www.mobilemuse.ca
An innovation network of community-based cultural, media and
technology champions.
>National Research Council of Canada
www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Canadian government agency that provides support to small and
medium-sized businesses. It has an office in Vancouver.
>Vancouver Enterprise Forum
www.vef.org
Non-profit society that advances technology entrepreneurship through
educational and networking forums.
>Wavefront
www.wavefrontac.com
Commercialization bridge between the wireless developer community and
mobile operators, government and large enterprises deploying wireless
products and services.
>WIN B.C.
www.winbc.org
Association representing the wireless industry.
>Wired Woman Society Vancouver Chapter
www.wiredwoman.com
Non-profit providing education, mentorship and networking opportunities
for women in technology careers.
Research Links
>B.C. Institute of Technology
Internet Engineering Lab
www.bcit.ca/appliedresearch/tc/facilities/iel
>Simon Fraser University
Centre for Scientific Computing
www.csc.sfu.ca
Compound Semiconductor Laboratory
www.css.sfu.ca/sites/csdl
Graphics Usability and Visualization Lab
http://gruvi.cs.sfu.ca
Pacific Centre for Advanced Materials & Related Technology
www.sfu.ca/physics/PCAMM/facility.html
PolyLab - Sun Technology and Research Excellence Centre for 21st
Century Network Computing
http://polylab.sfu.ca
>University of British Columbia:
Advanced Materials and Process Engineering Laboratory
www.ampel.ubc.ca
Institute for Computing, Information & Cognitive Systems
www.icics.ubc.ca
Media and Graphics Interdisciplinary Centre
www.magic.ubc.ca
Software Practices Lab
www.cs.ubc.ca/labs/spl
System on a Chip Lab
http://soc.ece.ubc.ca
JUNE 2008
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS life sciences
JUNE 2008
Vancouver is the core of one of

the fastest growing life sciences
clusters in North America,
with particular strength in
biotechnology.
Industry Snapshot
The life sciences industry in British Columbia includes
about 100 biopharmaceutical companies, 60 medical
device manufacturing and distribution companies, and 30
bio products companies. Biopharmaceutical companies
account for about 2,200 of the total employment of 2,700.
Biopharmaceuticals generate roughly $800 million per
year in revenues. Greater Vancouver is home to about 70
per cent of the B.C. life sciences industry and has a strong
complement of established and next generation firms,
including two of Canadas largest and most successful life
science companies: QLT and Angiotech Pharmaceuticals.
While most life sciences companies are small, they have
become very successful through strategic partnerships
with major international firms. For example, Neuromed
has a $500 million partnership with Merck to develop pain
management products. World renowned research is being
conducted in four life sciences areas: oncology, infectious
diseases, neuroscience and regenerative medicine.
Oncology research is based on a unique provincewide patient management system and registry
of information, as well as two major research
organizations: the B.C. Cancer Agency and the Prostate
Centre.
British Columbia is home to several pan-Canada and
international infectious diseases research networks,
including ones focusing on
HIV, SARS and prions. The
HIV/AIDS Centre of Excellence resides at Providence
Health Care/St. Pauls Hospital in downtown Vancouver.
Led by internationally acclaimed researcher and
President-Elect of the International AIDS Society
Dr. Julio Montaner, the Centre serves all of British
Columbia.
Neuroscience research is anchored by more than 340
senior researchers, more than 40 endowed university
research chairs, and two major multidisciplinary
research centres: the Brain Research Centre and the
International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries.
Photo: ISTOCKPHOTO/MONIKA WISNIEWSKA
life sciences
Researchers in regenerative medicine have more than

140 research agreements with bioscience companies,
including eight of the top ten pharmaceutical
companies.
Vancouvers competitive advantage in life sciences is based
on a talented workforce, government investment, and high
quality university R&D and education programs.
Vancouver draws top-notch, international life sciences
talent because of flexible immigration policies, its
outstanding quality of life and strong R&D infrastructure. A
fast-track immigration process expedites entry of highlyskilled workers into their fields of expertise.
Vancouvers life sciences sector has flourished because
of B.C. government investments in R&D of more than
$1.6 billion since 2001. The $90 million B.C. Renaissance
Capital Fund provides additional funding for early stage
ventures in biotechnology and other high-technology
sectors. The Government of Canada is providing $60
million in funding for four new centres of excellence in
commercialization and research in B.C. three in life
sciences, and the fourth in an area that includes some life
science-related applications.
The life sciences sector benefits from its West Coast
location, which puts it in easy reach of life sciences
collaborators and sources of venture capital in Washington
State and California. Vancouver is home to the prestigious
annual Bio Partnering North America conference, which
attracted more than 400 companies from 26 countries in
2008.
In 2005, The Scientist magazine ranked the University of
British Columbia (UBC) first in Canada, and ninth in North
America, for producing high-quality patentable research.
In 2006, the Milken Institute ranked UBC eighth in North

America for technology transfer and commercialization.
The university has spun-off more than 100 life sciences
companies, creating more than 2,500 jobs and raising
more than $2 billion in private investments. Simon Fraser
University (SFU) has generated an additional 70 spin-offs.
A biotechnology undergraduate degree is offered jointly
by the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and
UBC, while SFUs Masters of Technology MBA offers a
specialization in biotechnology.
Incentives
Qualifying non-Canadian companies are eligible to receive
tax credits of 20 per cent of qualified expenditures.
Canadian companies receive enhanced credits. The B.C.
government adds a ten per cent tax credit for qualifying
Canadian and non-Canadian corporations that conduct
R&D in British Columbia.
The National Science & Engineering Research Council
of Canada, one of three Canadian granting councils, has
invested more than $6 billion over the last ten years in
basic research, training the next generation of scientists,
and university-industry partnerships. This investment has
directly supported some 23,000 university students and
postdoctoral fellows; funded more than 11,000 university
professors every year; and helped more than 1,300
Canadian companies to invest in university research and
training.
Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP) provides a
range of technical and business-oriented advisory services
to support growth-oriented Canadian small and mediumsized enterprises. This can include non-repayable
contributions to Canadian firms interested in research
to develop their services, products and processes. The
program has contributed more than $570 million to more
than 30,000 projects. In 2007-2008, approximately $13
million was available to firms in B.C.
Venture Capital
British Columbia offers tax credits of 30 per cent to
qualified resident investors who provide venture capital
to small businesses conducting R&D on proprietary
technologies. Investment must be made through a venture
capital corporation or directly to an eligible business
corporation. Early-stage ventures are also eligible for
support from the B.C. governments $90 million B.C.
Renaissance Capital Fund.
JUNE 2008
Photo: ISTOCKPHOTO/UGUR BARISKAN
In 2005, The Scientist

magazine ranked UBC
first in Canada for
producing high-quality
patentable research
Other
B.C.s International Financial Activity Act (IFAA) allows
incorporated Canadian companies with permanent
establishments in B.C. a refund of income tax paid on
international income from commercialization of certain life
sciences patents. The maximum refund is the lesser of $8
million or 75 per cent of corporate income tax payable.
> AceTech
www.acetech.org
A forum for life science and technology company CEOs.
> B.C. Innovation Council
www.bcic.ca
partnership with government, industry and academia. The Council
provides research funding, scholarships and other resources.
www.investbc.ca
investment in B.C. and administers B.C.s venture
capital programs.
> B.C. Nanotechnology Alliance
www.nanotechbc.ca
Alliance of academic, government and industry partners supporting
development of nanotechnology.
JUNE 2008
> B.C. Technology Industry Association (BCTIA)

www.bctia.org
industries through a variety of programs and initiatives.
> International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries

www.icord.org
Collaborative research and training organization focusing on spinal cord
injury, and bringing together more than 300 researchers from academia
and non-profits.

www.cra.gc.ca
> Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research

www.msfhr.org
B.C. government support agency for health research.
> Discovery Parks

www.discoveryparks.com
Developer of specialized research facilities, especially for start-up and
post-secondary spin-off companies.
www.ifcbc.com
financial activity.
> LifeSciences B.C.
www.lifesciencesbc.ca
Industry association for the biotechnology industry.
> National Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
(NSERC)
www.nserc.ca
Canadian granting council that invests in post-secondary students,
post-doctoral fellows, basic research and university-industry research
projects. It has an office in Vancouver.
www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Canadian government agency that provides support to small- and
> Vancouver Bioinformatics Users Group (VanBUG)
www.vanbug.org
Association of researchers, professionals and students involved in
bioinformatics.
RESEARCH LINKS
> B.C. Cancer Research Centre
www.bccrc.ca
Research arm of the B.C. Cancer Foundation.
> B.C. Institute of Technology
www.tc.bcit.ca/emerging/biotech
Biotechnology program of B.C.s polytechnic institute, including
Canadas first industry-oriented bioinformatics training facility.
> Centre for Drug Research and Development
www.cdrd.ca
Non-profit that works with academic researchers, health organizations
and private companies to help commercialize drug discoveries.
> Child & Family Research Institute
www.bcricwh.bc.ca
Institute that researches childrens and womens health issues.
> Prostate Centre at Vancouver General Hospital

www.prostatelab.org
The centre consolidates research and clinical expertise at Vancouver
General Hospital.
> Simon Fraser University (SFU)
Bioinformatics
www.bioinformatics.sfu.ca
Centre for Policy Research on Science and Technology
www.sfu.ca/cprost
Mathematics of Information Technology and Complex Systems
(MITCAS)
www.mitacs.ca
University-Industry Liaison Office
www.sfu.ca/uilo
Vice President Research
www.sfu.ca/vpresearch
B.C. Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS
www.cfenet.ubc.ca
Biomedical Research Centre
www.brc.ubc.ca
Biotechnology Laboratory
www.biotech.ubc.ca
Brain Research Centre
www.brain.ubc.ca
Canadian HIV Trials Network
www.hivnet.ubc.ca
Centre for Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics
www.cmmt.ubc.ca
Faculty for Medicine (Research)
www.med.ubc.ca/research.htm
PrioNet Canada
www.prionetcanada.ca
University-Industry Liaison Office
www.uilo.ubc.ca
> Genome B.C.

www.genomebc.ca
Research organization that brings together governments, universities
and private sector partners in major research projects.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS mining
JUNE 2008
Abundant minerals in B.C.s

mountains, innovative business
practices, and public sector
investments have made
Vancouver a major centre for the
global mining industry since the
gold rushes of the mid-1800s.
Industry Snapshot
Greater Vancouver is the base of operations for over
800 global mining and mineral firms, including two of
the worlds largest mining companies. Most mining
employment in Vancouver is connected to executive
offices and mining support services such as geological
research, business administration, finance, management,
engineering and environmental consulting.
During the period 1997-2006, mining gross revenue in
British Columbia increased almost 50 per cent to $8
billion. More than 1,000 exploration and active mining sites
operate around the province; the industry employs 28,000
people and adds $7.4 billion to the economy annually. Sixty
per cent of Canadian mining exploration companies are in
B.C., responsible for $4.5 billion in equity capital.
British Columbias mountains are a rich source of
numerous minerals that are exported to markets
around the world. Vancouver has been home to a skilled
mining workforce for 150 years, and has developed
many innovative techniques to find mineral deposits,
extract and transport ores in ways least harmful to the
environment, and rehabilitate exhausted mine sites.
Vancouvers world-class port, with close proximity to
Asia and excellent rail links to mines, is a top competitive
asset. Asia continues to drive global demand for natural
resources, but North American markets are also
important for B.C. minerals.
Strong geological modelling, financial, management,
environmental and trading firms in Vancouver provide
mining companies with the sophisticated services
required to compete globally. The worlds leading
accounting and financial service firms operate mining
practices in Vancouver.
Photo: VANCOUVER PORT AUTHORITY
mining
Exploration investment in B.C. increased 57 per cent

in 2007 to a record high of $416 million. Since 2001,
exploration investment has increased 1,300 per cent,
signalling a strong future for mining in the province.
British Columbia accounts for about 17 per cent of
mining exploration in Canada.
Vancouver is a leader in developing new technologies
to take costly guesswork out of mining exploration.
Vancouver-based Gemcom Software International was
recognized for outstanding mine modeling and resource
planning by Mining Magazine. The firm provides 3D
imaging, mine modeling, data analysis and logistics
planning for 1,000 mining companies in 90 countries.
Incentives
The B.C. government offers two tax incentive programs to
the mining industry:
Refundable 20 per cent tax credit for grassroots
exploration of qualified resources.
Non-refundable 20 per cent tax credit for individuals
investing in flow-through shares that finance qualifying
grassroots exploration.The Canadian government
provides a 15 per cent complement to the non-refundable
flow-though tax credit.
> Association for Mineral Exploration of B.C.
www.amebc.ca
Association representing 4,000 prospectors, engineers, entrepreneurs,
exploration companies, suppliers, mineral producers and mining
associations.
> Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of B.C.
www.apeg.bc.ca
Licensing and regulatory body for B.C.s 23,000 engineers and
geoscientists.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS mining
JUNE 2008
since 2001, mining

exploration investments
in british columbia have
increased 1300%
> Mining Association of B.C.

www.mining.bc.ca
Industry association representing mining producers and development
firms.
> Mining Suppliers, Contractors and Consultants Association of B.C.
www.mscca.com
Business association of 200 mining suppliers and service firms.
HIGHLAND VALLEY COPPER PIT

PHOTO: MINING ASSOCIATION OF B.C.
Institute of Mining Engineering

http://mining.ubc.ca
The Institute offers degrees in mining engineering, conducts mining
research and works with the mining industry to develop innovative
technologies and practices to reduce environmental harm.
Centre for Environmental Research in Minerals, Metals and
Materials (CERM3)
www.cerm3.mining.ubc.ca
The centre consists of 25 faculty and researchers who seek to mitigate
the environmental impact of mining through research in conjunction
with mining companies and government agencies.
> B.C. Environment Industry Association

www.bceia.com
Industry association comprising engineering and environmental
service companies, technology companies, research organizations and
environmental law firms.
> B. C. Institute of Technology
www.bcit.ca
Vancouvers polytechnic institute offers a two-year diploma in mining and
contracts with mining firms to create customized courses to meet industry
training needs.
> B.C. Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Mining and
Mineral Division
www.empr.gov.bc.ca/mining
Provincial government department responsible for mining policy,
regulation and services.
B.C. Geological Survey
www.empr.gov.bc.ca/Mining/Geolsurv
Office providing downloads of historical information such as maps and
reports, and access to various information databases.
MapPlace
www.mapplace.ca
Interactive, database and mapping service that allows mining
companies to access critical geosciences attribute data.
Mineral Titles Online
www.em.gov.bc.ca/subwebs/mtonline
British Columbias internet-driven database of mineral titles.
> Geoscience BC
www.geosciencebc.com
Industry organization that encourages mineral and petroleum
exploration investment through applied geosciences, data collection,
analyses and technology applications. Projects are conducted in
collaboration with industry, academia and government.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS performance apparel
JUNE 2008
Vancouvers lifestyle, built

around active enjoyment of
the surrounding mountains
and ocean, creates strong
local demand for excellent
performance apparel that is
internationally renowned.
Industry Snapshot
Creative design, technological innovation,
entrepreneurship and environmental sustainability are
hallmarks of the small but thriving performance apparel
industry. More than three dozen performance apparel
businesses operate in greater Vancouver, ranging from
small hand-made manufacturers to globally-recognized
brands with annual sales of more than $100 million.
Performance apparel businesses specialize in functional
and fashionable gear for an array of activities, including
biking, diving, gymnastics, hiking, kayaking, running,
skiing, swimming and yoga.
Vancouvers nearby mountains, forests and oceans
supply the design inspiration and testing laboratory for
performance apparel businesses. The industry is poised
to benefit dramatically from the international exposure
provided by the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic
Winter Games.
Vancouver is one of the most physically active cities in
Canada. People in British Columbia and the U.S. Pacific
Northwest value functional gear that keeps them dry,
warm and comfortable during outdoor activity. Public and
private sector organizations that work year round in the
mountains and on the oceans provide a natural market for
apparel that performs well under harsh conditions.
Performance apparel businesses benefit from Vancouvers
proximity to important U.S. and Asian consumer markets.
ArcTeryx was the industry leader in climbing gear and
harnesses before branching out into high-end apparel
and backpacks. Sugoi performance apparel is recognized
across Europe and North America for cycling, triathlon,
cross-country skiing and running. Lululemon Athletica,
Photo: Sugoi Apparel / John Kelly
performance
apparel
which specializes in yoga apparel, has grown from one

store in Vancouver in 2001 to more than 75 in Canada,
Australia and the United States. Lija Style, a lifestyle
apparel firm, exports about 80 per cent of its products to
the United States, a major contributor to the companys
almost 600 per cent growth in revenues between 2001 and
2006.
Performance apparel businesses are leveraging longestablished apparel expertise and manufacturing capacity
in Vancouver, while adding high-tech innovations in
materials and construction, unique local designs, and
cutting-edge branding and marketing. Ski apparel
companies from around the world come to Vancouver and
nearby Whistler to check out the latest local fashions.
Incentives
The Canadian government offers relief on tariffs and
import duties to Canadian apparel businesses
as a result of international free trade agreements.
http://portal.apparel.ca/eng/portalIntTrade/tradeAgreements.cfm

Qualifying non-Canadian companies are eligible
to receive tax credits of 20 per cent of qualified
expenditures. Canadian companies receive enhanced
credits. The B.C. government adds a ten per cent
tax credit for qualifying Canadian and non-Canadian
corporations that conduct R&D in British Columbia.
> B.C. Fashion Week
www.bcfashionweek.com
This annual gathering exposes apparel firms in Vancouver and B.C. to
global opinion leaders in the fashion industry.
Photo: Sugoi Apparel / John Kelly
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS performance apparel
> Blanche MacDonald Centre

www.blanchemacdonald.com
Centre providing diploma and certificate programs in Fashion
Merchandising and Fashion Design.
www.cra.gc.ca
> Canadian Apparel Federation
www.apparel.ca
National advocacy association for the Canadian apparel industry.
> Emily Carr Institute of Art+Design
www.eciad.ca
Bachelors program in design focuses on sustainable design and
innovative product design.
> Fashion High
www.fashionhigh.ca
Non-profit organization that encourages consumers to buy from B.C.
fashion companies and promotes sustainable design practices.
> Kwantlen Polytechnic UniversityFashion Design and Technology
Program
www.kwantlen.ca/applied-design/fashion.html
Bachelors level program that prepares graduates for careers in fashion
design, production, marketing and computer technology; the only
program of its kind in Western Canada.
> Threads Gazette
www.threadsgazette.com
Online newsletter that serves as the voice of the B.C. apparel and fashion
industries.
> Vancouver Community College Fashion Arts Program
http://continuinged.vcc.ca/fashionArts/programs.htm
Degree and certificate programs in fashion, including design, pattern
making, garment construction, and fashion business technology.
JUNE 2008
sustainabilityrelated
industries
An environmental ethos
drives major public-private
investments and R&D, making
Vancouver a highly favourable
place for sustainability-related
industries.
Industry Snapshot
Vancouver has a large number of medium and small
companies active in sustainability-related industries.
Greater Vancouver companies accounted for almost half of
Deloittes Technology Green 15 Companies in 2007. Many
sustainability-related firms are active in export markets,
such as BioteQ, which has a unique bacteria-based
process to remediate waste water generated by mining
activities.
The region has a particularly impressive record in
two areas: clean technology and sustainable urban
development.
Vancouver is home to 70 per cent of B.C.s clean
technology sector, with more than 800 companies and
more than 12,000 employees. Vancouver is especially
strong in advanced energy solutions, with roughly 90
alternative energy companies, employing 3,000 people
and generating revenues of $750 million. This includes
companies working in solar, wind and tidal power; bioenergy; and power technologies.
Vancouver is home to leading innovators in hydrogen, fuel
cell and natural gas engines, including Ballard Power,
QuestAir Technologies and Westport Innovations. The
hydrogen and fuel cell sector in B.C. is the largest in the
world and represents 75 per cent of Canadian fuel cell and
hydrogen-based R&D expenditures. B.C. accounts for 70
per cent of Canadas employment in this sector.
The power electronics sub-sector is one of the most
commercially advanced sub-sectors in clean technology,
with well over $600 million in annual revenues, and a
number of internationally well known firms, such as
NxtPhase T&D Corporation, Xantrax Technology and Alpha
Technologies. Vancouvers PowerTech Labs - a subsidiary
JUNE 2008
PHOTO: FINAVERA RENEWABLES INC.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS sustainability-related industries
of B.C. Hydro, which supplies 90 per cent of the provincess

electricity - offers world-leading expertise in grid
management. Advanced battery and charging systems is
another area of strength: B.C. is home to North Americas
only manufacturer of cylindrical Li-ion rechargeable
batteries, and also the worlds only commercial
manufacturer of flow batteries.
Sustainable urban development, including design and
development of certified green buildings, is another
industry where Vancouver and B.C. are North American
leaders. B.C. was the first province in Canada to adopt
the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
rating system (LEED) and has 42 per cent of all LEEDcertified buildings in Canada, most of them in Greater
Vancouver.
The City of Vancouver has an ambitious program to curb
greenhouse gas emissions in its own operations and in
the community. Even though the citys population has
increased 24 per cent since 1990, and the number of jobs
has increased 14 per cent, emissions from City operations
have declined five per cent in the same period, while
community-wide emissions have risen only five per cent.
Emissions per capita are about half those of Toronto, and
about a third of those in nearby cities such as Calgary,
Seattle and Portland.
the hydrogen and

Fuel cell sector
in british columbia
is the largest in the
world
Vancouver has a sophisticated infrastructure to develop
sustainable technologies, including industry and university
research labs, testing centers, industry associations
and other non-profit organizations. The Vancouverbased organization GLOBE Foundation hosts a major
internationally recognized bi-annual conference on the
environmental industry.
British Columbias advanced energy sector is poised for
continued, rapid expansion. The B.C. governments energy
plan aims to secure 50 per cent of incremental power
requirements from clean energy sources. The province
has abundant natural resources to generate advanced
energy, including tidal and wind power; wood that can
be converted to pellets or alternative fuels; large coal
deposits that can be used for coal-bed methane; and
biomass that can be burned for fuel.
Close business ties with Asia offer a strategic advantage
as do proximity to U.S. markets, and existing tie-ins to
cross-border transmission systems and U.S. energy hubs.
The B.C. government is also part of the Western Climate
Initiative, an alliance of Western U.S. states and Canadian
provinces.
cities like dubai and

las vegas are applying
sustainable urban
planning practices
from vancouver
Government is a critical enabler of sustainability,
particularly sustainable urban development. In 2007,
FastCompany Magazine named Vancouver as a
Green Leader, noting the citys EcoDensity initiative,
which makes sustainability the foundation of building
construction, transportation infrastructure investments,
neighbourhood development and zoning. Greater
Vancouver won the 2003 International Gas Association
worldwide competition to create the best hundred-year
sustainability plan for a metropolitan area.
Building a livable and sustainable city has been the thrust
of the City of Vancouvers urban planning activity for more
than 30 years and has won many national and international
awards. The Citys living first strategy sparked new
cosmopolitan, residential neighbourhoods around the
downtown commercial core, creating one of the most
vibrant and diverse downtowns in North America.
The private sector plays an equally important role
in Vancouvers pre-eminence in sustainable urban
JUNE 2008
PHOTO: HYDROGEN & FUEL CELLS CANADA
development. Vancouver has particularly strong expertise

in urban environmental planning and design; cities
like Dubai, Las Vegas and Albuquerque are applying
sustainable urban planning lessons from Vancouver to
their own urban development.
Incentives
The B.C. government has a comprehensive energy plan
to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that includes
significant incentives, such as a $25 million Innovative
Clean Energy Fund to showcase advanced energy
technologies with strong export potential. The B.C. and
Canadian governments are partnering to invest $89
million for hydrogen fuel cell fuelling stations and the
worlds first fleet of 20 fuel cell busses.
The Canadian government provides financial resources to
support R&D in advanced energy and clean technology.
The Eco Energy for Renewable Power Program
encourages investment in energy conservation and
renewable energy projects, with a total commitment of
$1.48 billion.
The Vancouver-based National Research Council Canada
Institute for Fuel Cell Innovation works with universities,
government agencies and companies on projects focused
on the research, development, demonstration and
testing of hydrogen and fuel cell systems. Sustainable
Development Technology Canada is a not-for-profit
foundation with an investment fund of $550 million that
finances and supports the development and demonstration
of clean technologies.
JUNE 2008

Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP) provides a
range of technical and business-oriented advisory services
to support growth-oriented Canadian small and mediumsized enterprises. This can include non-repayable
contributions to Canadian firms interested in research
to develop their services, products and processes. The
program has contributed more than $570 million to more
than 30,000 projects. In 2007-2008, approximately $13
million was available to firms in B.C.
Venture Capital
British Columbia offers tax credits of 30 per cent to
qualified resident investors who provide venture capital
to small businesses conducting R&D on proprietary
technologies. Investment must be made through a
venture capital corporation or directly to an eligible
business corporation. Early-stage ventures are also
eligible for support from the B.C. governments $90
million B.C. Renaissance Capital Fund.
Other
British Columbias International Financial Activity Act
(IFAA) allows incorporated Canadian companies with
permanent establishments in B.C. to recoup up to 100 per
cent of provincial corporate income taxes on international
income from patents related to wind, solar and tidal power
generation.
British Columbia provides a number of other targeted
incentives for alternative energy production, including
partial abatement of property taxes, exemptions from
sales tax and accelerated depreciation allowances for tax
purposes. There is also a Government of Canada incentive
for wind power production.
> BC Environment Industry Association
www.bceia.com
Industry association comprising engineering & environmental service
companies, and technology companies.
> BC Hydro (Power Smart Program, BC Hydro Research and
Development Fund)
www.bchydro.com
The largest provider of electricity in B.C. and a major contributor to the
development of advanced energy solutions.
PHOTO: FINAVERA RENEWABLES INC.

Qualifying non-Canadian companies are eligible to receive
tax credits of 20 per cent of qualified expenditures.
Canadian companies receive enhanced credits. The B.C.
government adds a ten per cent tax credit for qualifying
Canadian and non-Canadian corporations that conduct
R&D in British Columbia.

www.investbc.ca
> BC Pellet Fuel Manufacturers Association
www.pellet.org
Association working to advance wood pellet firing technology.
> BC Sustainable Energy Association
www.bcsea.org
Non-profit society of citizens, professionals and practitioners promoting
sustainable energy, energy efficiency and conservation.
> B.C. Technology Industry Association (BCTIA)
www.bctia.org
> Biodiesel Association of Canada
www.biodiesel-canada.org
Association that promotes the development of a Canadian commercial
bio-diesel industry.
> Canada Green Building Council
www.cagbc.org
A national coalition based in Vancouver that works to accelerate the
design and construction of green buildings in Canada.
www.cra.gc.ca
Canadian government department that administers the SR&ED
program; it has an office in Vancouver.
> Canadian Wind Energy Association
www.canwea.ca
Non-profit trade association that promotes development of wind energy.
> City Green
www.citygreen.ca
Non-profit that works in partnership with government, business, and
community organizations to promote environmental sustainability.
> City of Vancouver

www.vancouver.ca/sustainability
www.onedayvancouver.ca/portal/php
www.vancouver.ca/commsvcs/planning
The City is a leader in many sustainability-related activities, in both its
own operations and in the community. Its planning department has
developed unique approaches to sustainable urban planning.
> Community Energy Association
www.communityenergy.bc.ca
Non-profit society that promotes energy conservation, energy efficiency
and green energy supplies through community projects.
> David Suzuki Foundation
www.davidsuzuki.org
Foundation that seeks ways for society to live in balance with the natural
world.
> Fuel Cells Canada
www.fuelcellscanada.ca
Vancouver-based national industry association for the hydrogen and fuel
cells industry.
> GeoExchange B.C.
www.geoexchangebc.ca
Association of private and public entities, providing information and
resources for the growing geo-exchange industry.
Research Links
> British Columbia Institute of Technology
Centre for the Advancement of Green Roof Technology
http://commons.bcit.ca/greenroof
Photovoltaic Energy Applied Research Lab (PEARL)
www.bcit.ca/appliedresearch/tc/facilities/pearl.shtml
> Powertech Labs
www.powertech.bc.ca
> Simon Fraser University
4D Labs
www.4dlabs.ca
Canadian Industrial Energy EndUse Data and Analysis Centre
www.cieedac.sfu.ca/CIEEDACweb/index.php
Energy and Materials Research Group (EMRG)
www.emrg.sfu.ca/EMRGweb/index.php
Mathematics and Information Technology and Complex Systems
(MITACS) National Centre of Excellence
www.mitacs.math.ca/index.htm
> GLOBE Foundation

www.globe.ca
Vancouver-based nonprofit organization seeking practical businessoriented solutions to environmental problems. Hosts an international
conference on sustainability every two years in Vancouver.
Centre for Advanced Wood Processing

www.cawp.ubc.ca
> Hydrogen Highway

www.hydrogenhighway.ca
Partnership between government and industry to support Canadas
transition to a hydrogen economy.
Centre for Human Settlements

www.chs.ubc.ca
> Independent Power Producers Association of British Columbia

www.ippbc.com
Association of power suppliers, power retailers, and supporting
industries.
Centre for Landscape Research

www.sustainable-communities.agsci.ubc.ca
> International Centre for Sustainable Cities

www.icsc.ca
Non-profit that advances sustainable urban practices, particularly
planning for long-term sustainability, in developing countries.
School of Community and Regional Planning

www.scarp.ubc.ca

www.ifcbc.com
financial activity.
www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Canadian government agency that provides support to small- and
JUNE 2008
Centre for Environmental Research in Minerals, Metals and Materials

(CERM3)
www.mining.ubc.ca/cerm3/index.html
Centre for Interactive Research on Sustainability

www.ires.ubc.ca
Clean Energy Research Center

www.cerc.ubc.ca
Structured Surface Physics Laboratory

www.physics.ubc.ca/ssp
Sustainable Development Research Institute
www.sdri.ubc.ca
> Sustainable Technology Development Canada

www.sdtc.ca
National foundation that finances and supports the development and
demonstration of clean technologies.
> Vancouver Fuel Cell Vehicle Program
www.vfcvp.gc.ca
Consortium of the Governments of Canada and British Columbia, Fuel
Cells Canada, and Ford Motor Company, established to conduct the first
fleet demonstration of fuel cell cars in Canada.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS tourism
JUNE 2008
Vancouver is a premier global

destination. Tourism is expected
to grow rapidly, spurred by the
2010 Olympic and Paralympic
Winter Games and a major
extension to the Vancouver
Convention Centre.
Industry Snapshot
Vancouvers beauty has made it a magnet for people from
all over the world for more than a century. Nearly 9 million
people visit the region each year, about 60 per cent of
them from Canada. Visits from other parts of the world
continue to grow, particularly from Europe and Mexico.
Two million people visit each year from the United States.
There are more than 24,000 hotel rooms in the region, with
more tourist accommodation available in seasonal rooms,
hostels and bed and breakfasts. An additional 2,500 hotel
rooms will be completed by 2011.
In 2009, Vancouvers waterfront convention centre will
more than triple in size, to a total of almost 500,000
square feet of function space. The facility will offer
Canadas largest convention centre ballroom, more than
70 meeting rooms and 300,000 square feet of exhibition
space. This will allow it to accommodate all but the largest
conventions.
In addition to a spectacular view, the new facility will offer
unique environmental features: a six-acre living roof,
a man made marine habitat in the buildings foundation,
grey and black water recycling, and seawater heating and
cooling. More than 14,000 hotel rooms are within easy
walking distance.
Conventions and business meetings account for 1.9 million
hotel nights, and visitor spending is approaching $600
million annually. These numbers are expected to grow
more than 50 per cent between 2008 and 2015.
Total spending by overnight visitors amounted to more
than $4.4 billion in 2006. The average visitor spent four
days in the region, and spent $117 per day.
Vancouvers strongly competitive tourist sector is based
on its unique juxtaposition of overwhelming natural
photo: TOURISM BC
tourism
Majestic mountains,
sparkling ocean,
rainforests and
beautiful foliage - all
four seasons make
Vancouver one of the
most beautiful cities in
the world
beauty and a diverse, cosmopolitan and exciting city. It
offers a pristine natural setting, world class dining and
nightlife, luxurious accommodations and a variety of
one-of-a-kind attractions and museums. It caters to the
desires of shoppers in search of great bargains, outdoors
adventurers looking for a thrill, lovers of culture who
want to savour the arts, and sports fans who enjoy a good
game.
Vancouver is the worlds gateway to B.C., which offers
an extraordinary range of tourist attractions just beyond
Greater Vancouver. The city has excellent road and rail
connections to the rest of North America. Its awardwinning international airport is served by more than 50
air carriers and is only 14 kilometres from downtown
Vancouver the two will be linked by rapid transit in 2009.
Vancouvers port is an important destination in the cruise
business, catering to about a million passengers a year.
Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the top ten
meeting destinations. On average, Vancouver events draw
11 per cent higher attendance than the same events at
different locations the previous year.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS tourism
JUNE 2008
Hosting the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games

is already enhancing Vancouvers well-established global
reputation as a premier destination. The latest research
by London-based Anholt City Brands ranks Vancouvers
brand as 8th best in the world in 2007, up from 16th in 2006.
Incentives
Some individually tailored incentives are available from
Tourism Vancouver.
604-682-2222
www.tourismvancouver.com
> B.C. & Yukon Hotel Association
www.bcyha.com
Industry association for hotels.
> B.C. Restaurant & Foodservices Association
www.bcrfa.com
Industry association for restaurants.
> Best Cities Global Alliance
www.bestcities.net
Global alliance of convention bureaus that deliver excellent experience for
meeting planners.
photo: WESLEY REGAN / WESLEYREGAN.COM
The Government of British Columbia is committed

to doubling tourist revenues by 2015. Vancouver is
successfully building its brand by pursuing a strategy of
exceeding visitor expectations and by making the region
the most welcoming and accessible in North America.
> Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre

www.vcec.com
Operator of Vancouvers convention centre and other facilities.
> Vancouver Airport Authority
www.yvr.com
Operator of Vancouvers award-winning international airport.
> City of Vancouver Visitor Information

www.vancouver.ca/visitors.htm
Information on arts, culture, events, outdoor sports and recreation, parks
and gardens, self-guided walking tours, transportation
and sightseeing.
> Council of Tourism Associations of British Columbia
www.cotabc.com
Industry association for tourist associations.
> Northwest Cruise Ship Association
www.nwcruiseship.org
Non-profit that builds relationships between cruise lines and
communities.
> Tourism British Columbia
www.tourismbc.com
Tourism support agency of B.C.
> Tourism Vancouver
Greater Vancouvers tourism promotion agency.
> Vancouver 2010 Organizing Committee
www.winter2010.com
Organizing entity for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in
Vancouver.
> Vancouver Coast & Mountains Tourism Region
www.vcmbc.com
Regional association that provides tourist information.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS transportation & logistics
JUNE 2008
Vancouver offers the fastest

major trade connection between
the economic powerhouses of
Asia and North America.
Industry Snapshot
Greater Vancouver is the nexus of an established and
innovative commercial transportation network in Western
Canada. Around the clock movement of commercial ships,
trains and trucks make this one of North Americas most
vibrant trading centres. Innovative planning and expanded
government and private sector investments are bolstering
Vancouvers position as the main Canadian gateway for
trade between Asia and North America.
Vancouvers port is one of the worlds best deep-water
harbours and one of the closest ports in North America
to Asia. Shipping to Asian ports from Vancouver saves
at least one day compared to other West Coast ports.
Vancouver is the top port for foreign export tonnage in
North America and has the third most foreign container
traffic on the West Coast.
Vancouvers competitive position in transportation
and logistics is buttressed by strong transportation
infrastructure, emerging logistics capacity, and major
public and private investments in the regions role as a
trade gateway to Asia.
Three major railways link Vancouver to key Canadian,
American and Mexican markets. Commercial railroad
operators have on-dock access to Vancouvers shipping
terminals, allowing for fast and more efficient movement
of goods.
The U.S.-Canadian border is within an hours drive
from the port for commercial truckers. Most of North
Americas consumer markets can be serviced by truck
from Vancouver within three to four days. Under the North
America Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), firms located in
B.C. have duty-free access to U.S. and Mexican markets,
while materials and equipment can be sourced duty
free from the U.S. and Mexico. Canada has the lowest
transportation costs among NAFTA countries.
The Vancouver International Airport provides a highquality, low-cost gateway for passengers and cargo.
PHOTO: port of vancouver
transportation
& logistics
It is the second largest international passenger gateway

on North Americas west coast and has the lowest landing
fees in Canada.
Vancouvers vibrant commercial transportation network
is tied together by strong trucking, logistics, warehousing
and distribution firms. These firms offer the hi-tech
and efficient services global businesses need to meet
customers just in time needs. Major global freightforwarding and air cargo firms have offices in Vancouver,
which is also a regional hub for FedEx and UPS.
The federal and provincial governments and the
commercial transportation industry are investing
more than $13 billion to triple container flow through
Vancouver by 2020, as well as doubling air freight. These
investments include major expansions of port and airport
capacity as well as upgrades to enhance commercial
truck and rail traffic flow through the region. An
additional $7 billion investment in transit improvements
is further reducing traffic congestion.
The Vancouver
International Airport
is the second largest
international passenger
gateway on North
Americas west coast
Incentives
The International Maritime Centre offers tax incentives to
shipping companies, while an Export Distribution Centre at
Vancouvers international airport allows duty and tax-free
storage of imported goods prior to export from Canada.
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE KEY SECTORS transportation & logistics

www.investbc.ca
> B.C. Trucking Association
www.bctrucking.com
Industry association of commercial trucking firms in B.C., whose
members employ 26,000 people and operate 14,000 motor carriers.
> Canada Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Canadian government department responsible for promoting
international trade.
VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

PHOTO: LARRY GOLDSTEIN PHOTOGRAPHY
> Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada

www.asiapacific.ca
National research group that works to strengthen Canada-Asia ties.
> Chamber of Shipping of B.C.

www.chamber-of-shipping.com
Advocacy organization representing 150 maritime companies and related
entities in Western Canada. The Chamber includes the International
Maritime Centre which leverages tax and regulatory policies to attract
head offices of maritime shipping companies to B.C. and Canada.
> City of Vancouver
www.vancouver.ca/engsvcs/transport
The Citys Engineering Services department provides information on
current transportation system performance and plans for the future.
> Government of British ColumbiaPacific Gateway Initiative
www.th.gov.bc.ca/PacificGateway/index.htm
British Columbias contribution to a unique partnership of industries and
governments working to improve goods flow through the region.
> Greater Vancouver Gateway Council
www.gvgc.ca
Non-profit organization of senior executives from industry, government
and academia focused on expanding Vancouvers position as a trade and
tourism gateway.
> Translink South Coast B.C. Transportation Authority
www.translink.bc.ca
Government organization responsible for the regional road and transit
network.
> University of British Columbia Centre for Transportation Studies
www.sauder.ubc.ca/cts
Research centre focused on economics, management and policy issues
within the transportation and logistics sector.
> Vancouver Fraser Port Authority
www.vfpa.ca
Three Vancouver area port authorities were amalgamated into this
authority in 2008, significantly increasing efficiency and competitiveness.
> Vancouver International Airport Authority
www.yvr.ca
Operator of Vancouvers award-winning international airport.
> Western Transportation Advisory Council
www.westac.com
Vancouver-based industry association working to improve the
transportation supply chain in Western Canada.
JUNE 2008
information sources for business

visitors, investors, entrepreneurs,
immigrants and foreign students
coming to vancouver.
DESTINATION
VANCOUVER
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE DESTINATION VANCOUVER
JUNE 2008
ALMOST 9 MILLION
PEOPLE VISIT GREATER
VANCOUVER EACH YEAR
Visiting Vancouver
Entry requirements for Canada depend on where you live
and the reason for your visit. You may need a Temporary
Resident Visa. For more information, visit:
www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit
Some people are not allowed entry to Canada for security,

health, financial or other reasons. Consult a Canadian
embassy or consulate - locations of Canadian offices
abroad are listed at:
www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Visitor Links
> City of Vancouver Visitor Information
Information on arts, culture, events, outdoor sports and recreation, parks
and gardens, self-guided walking tours, transportation and sightseeing.
www.vancouver.ca/visitors.htm
> Tourism British Columbia
Tourism information about British Columbia.
www.hellobc.com
> Tourism Vancouver
The regions official source for information and services for visitors,
providing maps, travel guides, accommodation listings, and a
comprehensive directory of Vancouver attractions and sightseeing ideas.
Immigrating to
Canada and British
Columbia
Canada and British Columbia welcome thousands of new
residents every year.
In most cases, you must apply at a Canadian visa office
outside of Canada; in some cases, you can apply to
become a permanent resident after you arrive in Canada.
Different rules may apply depending on whether you are:
A skilled worker or professional
A
n investor, entrepreneur or
self-employed
A
family member of a Canadian citizen or permanent
resident
A
n applicant recognized by B.C.s Provincial Nominee
Program
Immigration resources are available at:
www.ag.gov.bc.ca/immigration
BC Immigrant Entrepreneurs program

The Government of British Columbia offers accelerated
immigration for qualified entrepreneurs who have the
ability to develop a successful business.
www.sbed.gov.bc.ca/ProgramsAndServices/ PNP/BC/index.htm
Citizenship and Immigration Canada provides useful

resources and services for people looking to immigrate to
Canada, including a variety of publications.
www.cic.gc.ca
Working in Vancouver
There is a broad array of services and resources available
for job seekers in Vancouver. Before beginning your
job search, make sure you are allowed to work legally
in Canada. Newcomers who do not have Canadian
citizenship or landed immigrant status, or who wish
to acquire a work permit, can visit Citizenship and
Immigration Canadas Working Temporarily in Canada
website: www.cic.gc.ca/english/work
General Information
For general information about working in Canada and
B.C., visit the following websites:
> Service Canada Employment Services
Information and resources on obtaining employment in Canada, including
online services and forms, and links to regional employment resources.
www.servicecanada.gc.ca/en/subjects/employment
> WorkBC
A website created by the B.C. government
to provide job search, career planning and
other employment resources related to B.C.s job market.
www.workbc.ca
> Work Futures
Intended for learners, individuals interested in changing careers or reentering the labour market, and for career practitioners, Work Futures
provides a comprehensive description of close to 200 occupations as they
relate to the B.C. labour market.
www.workfutures.bc.ca
JUNE 2008
> Working in Canada

A resource created by the Government of Canada to provide information
about Canadas labour market, job titles, and employment facts by
occupation and city, town or region.
www.workingincanada.gc.ca
Careers in the Public Sector

> B.C. Public Service
The B.C. Public Service is the provinces largest employer, with over
30,000 employees.
www.employment.gov.bc.ca
> City of Vancouver Employment Opportunities
The City of Vancouver employs 9,000 people.
www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/humanresources
Starting a Business
The process to set up a business in Vancouver is
determined by the type of business, and by the location of
the business.
> Business Registration, Incorporation and Licenses
Small Business B.C. provides information and assistance.
Toll Free in B.C.: 1-800-667-2272
www.smallbusinessbc.ca
> Federal Company Incorporation and Name Searches
Industry Canada provides many services and programs for business,
including federal company incorporation and name searches.
www.ic.gc.ca
> Obtaining a Business License
All businesses operating within the City of Vancouver require a business
license; some require multiple licenses, depending on the goods or
services provided. To find out about licensing, including requirements,
fees, inspections and enforcement, visit:
www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/commsvcs/licandinsp
> Self-Serve Business Registration
The B.C. Business Registry operates a one-stop business registry,
enabling proprietorship and partnership businesses to register online
with multiple public sector agencies in one step.
www.bcbusinessregistry.ca
information sources for

businesses
Promotes commerce and investment in B.C.
www.investbc.com
> B.C. Stats
The statistical agency of the B.C. government.
www.bcstats.gov.bc.ca
> City of Vancouver
The City of Vancouver publishes extensive business-related information
on its website.
www.vancouver.ca/business.htm#resources
> Metro Vancouver
A partnership of 21 municipalities and one electoral area that provides
regional services throughout Greater Vancouver.
www.gvrd.bc.ca
> Vancouver Public Library

The multi-branch library has many resources for businesses.
www.vpl.ca
Business Premises &

utilities
Construction of and changes to commercial and
business buildings require permits, including permits for
development, building, occupancy, plumbing and electrical
work.
Development Permits are required for new buildings,
to determine if the building concept and intended use
are suitable for the neighbourhood.
Building Permits are needed for any new building, or
for changes to a building, to ensure that the building is
safe.
Occupancy Permits are required to ensure the safety of
new or renovated buildings for occupancy.
Plumbing, Gas and Electrical Permits are needed when
new water pipes, gas pipes or electrical wiring are
installed in any building, new or old.
If you do not have the required permits, your businessrelated activities may be stopped.
www.vancouver.ca/commsvcs/developmentservices
> City of Vancouver Engineering Services

Provides water supply, sewage, drainage, refuse removal, street access,
lighting. For water services call 604-326-4800; for sewage services call
604-326-4680; for other services call 604-873-7300.
www.vancouver.ca/engsvcs/admin/breakdown.htm
> Electricity
Provided by B.C. Hydro. Call 1-800-224-9374.
www.bchydro.com
> Natural Gas

Available from Terasen Gas. Call 1-888-224-2710.
www.terasengas.com/Business/default.htm
JUNE 2008
Finding Investment Capital

Vancouver provides a broad array of financing options for
new and established businesses.
> Business Development Bank of Canada
The BDC, a financial institution owned by the Government of Canada,
delivers flexible financing, affordable consulting services and venture
capital to Canadian small and medium-sized businesses at every stage
of growth.
www.bdc.ca
> Venture Capital Programs
B.C.s venture capital programs are designed to encourage investors
to make equity capital investments in British Columbia-based small
businesses, and to ensure that small businesses have continuous access
to early-stage venture capital to help them develop and expand.
www.gov.bc.ca/ecdev
> Western Economic Diversification
This Canadian government agency assists small businesses and new
entrepreneurs through grants, contributions and programs.
www.wd.gc.ca
Finding Employees
Before hiring employees, ensure you understand the B.C.
Employment Standards Act, and associated regulations.
Establishing a business in
Canada?
Invest in Canada is a service of the Canadian government
providing information and services for-non-Canadian
business immigrants, as well as for individual
entrepreneurs and small, medium and large enterprises
around the world. Before committing to an investment in
a Vancouver business, ensure you are able to do so under
current Canadian law.
www.investincanada.gc.ca
www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/does-esa-apply.htm
Recruitment
Many employment services, recruitment agencies, online
job posting services and headhunter or executive search
firms provide dedicated services for the Vancouver
market.
Online resources:
> Charity Village
Employer and job seeker resources and job postings, exclusively for the
non-profit sector.
www.charityvillage.com
Finding commercial &

industrial space
> go2
tourism industry.
www.go2hr.ca
To acquire or lease commercial or industrial space, you

may consider working with a licensed real estate agent. To
find out more about working with realtors and about agency
representation options in Vancouver, contact the B.C. Real
Estate Association:
> LifeSciences BC
life sciences and biotechnology industries.
www.lifesciencesbc.ca/Employment
www.bcrea.bc.ca
Online inventories of available space:

> CSLink.ca
Provided by the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver, this web site is
a regularly updated inventory of commercial property for sale or lease in
Greater Vancouver.
www.cslink.ca
> Space4Lease
This website provides an inventory of available office, industrial and retail
space in all major Canadian markets, using a network of major real
estate brokers.
www.space4lease.com
> Service Canada JobBank

Canadas one-stop job listing web site, helping Canadian workers, job
seekers and employers connect online, free of service charges.
http://jb-ge.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca
> T-NET British Columbia
Employer and job seeker resources and job postings, exclusively for
technology industries.
www.bctechnology.com
foreign Skilled workers & professionals

When a Canadian employer is unable to find a qualified
Canadian resident for a position, skilled workers from
overseas may come to Canada through one of a variety of
immigration programs.
The rules for sponsoring a skilled worker can change

from time to time check with Citizenship & Immigration
Canada.
www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/skilled
The B.C. Provincial Nominee Program is designed to help

companies recruit foreign workers in selected industries.
Top sectors for provincial nominees are:
Healthcare
JUNE 2008
Small Business Venture Capital

Tax Credit
Corporations investing in shares of a registered venture
capital corporation or eligible business corporation can
claim a Venture Capital Tax Credit (VCC).
www.rev.gov.bc.ca/business
Skilled trades
High-tech and information technology
Post-secondary education
For more information, visit:
www.pnp.gov.bc.ca
Temporary Foreign Workers

Every year, more than 90,000 foreign workers enter
Canada to work temporarily to help Canadian employers
address skill shortages. Citizenship and Immigration
Canada issues work permits to foreign workers; all
temporary foreign workers must have a valid work
permit.
www.cic.gc.ca/english/work
Creating a Healthy &

Safe Workplace
The Workers Compensation Act (WCA) outlines the rights
and responsibilities of employers and workers with respect
to health and safety in the workplace. Five documents
outline the minimum requirements for occupational health
and safety in B.C.
Workers Compensation Act (BC) Excerpts and
Summaries (WCA)
Hazardous Products Act (Canada) Summaries (HPA)
Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (OHS
Regulation)
Prevention Manual (policies)
Guidelines to help interpret and apply the OHS
Regulation and WCA
WorkSafeBC is dedicated to promoting workplace health
and safety in B.C.
www.worksafebc.com
Selling Products &

Services
Federal and provincial laws govern how consumer and
industrial products can be produced and sold, and the
legal responsibility of a business to its customers.
Food and Drugs Act (Canada)

www.laws.justice.gc.ca/en/F-27
Consumer Packaging & Labelling Act (Canada)

www.laws.justice.gc.ca/en/C-38
Food & Products Standards Act (British Columbia)

www.agf.gov.bc.ca/ministry/legsum/FPST.stm
Exporting information
> Canada Export Centre
A centre that promotes, supports and matches exporters to buyers
from around the globe, working with government, trade and industry
associations and foreign consulates to capitalize on incoming trade
delegations.
www.canadaexportcentre.com
> Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME)
CME is Canadas largest trade and industry association, promoting the
continuous improvement of Canadian manufacturing and exporting.
www.cme-mec.ca/bc
> Canadian Trade Commissioner Service
Export services for Canadian companies, provided through the
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, including foreign
market industry reports, key contacts searches, target market briefings
and trade events.
www.infoexport.gc.ca
> Export Development Canada
Canadian government agency providing innovative financing, insurance
and bonding solutions to Canadian companies that export goods and
services, or invest in other countries.
www.edc.ca
> ExportSource.ca
An online resource centre developed by the Government of Canada to
provide comprehensive information and practical tools for new and
experienced exporters.
www.exportsource.ca
> Small Business BC
Non-profit society offering new and potential exporters services to help
export Canadian goods and services.
www.smallbusinessbc.ca
> Trade Team BC
A group of federal, provincial and local export-service agencies that
provides information, programs and services to companies looking to
expand into new export markets outside Canada.
www.bctradeevents.com
JUNE 2008
Bidding for Government

Business
Opportunities to sell goods or services to municipal and
provincial government departments and agencies can be
found through the following programs:
> City of Vancouver
Bidding opportunities can be accessed on the City of Vancouver website.
www.vancouver.ca/bid
> Government of British Columbia
A government procurement e-service that allows private corporations
and individuals the opportunity to browse and compete on public sector
tender opportunities in B.C.
Using B.C. Bid, registrants are sent notifications, via e-mail, of
government bid opportunities that match pre-selected criteria;
registrants can also submit bids electronically.
www.bcbid.ca
Businesses may also register to find out about business opportunities
related to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
www.2010commercecentre.gov.bc.ca
Promoting Your Business

in Vancouver
There are many industry associations that address
the needs of companies in specific industries. Useful
organizations and resources for businesses in all
industries include:
> BC Business Magazine
Monthly magazine covering business in B.C.
www.bcbusinessmagazine.com
> Better Business Bureau
Non-profit promoting fairness and honesty in the marketplace.
www.bbb.org
> Business Council of British Columbia
An association representing over 200 large and medium-sized business
enterprises.
www.bcbc.com
> Business Improvement Areas (BIAs)
Non-profit associations of commercial property owners and business
tenants who work to improve the economic vitality of their business
districts. There are 20 business improvement areas in the city of
Vancouver.
www.vancouver.ca/commsvcs/cityplans/bia
> Business in Vancouver
Weekly magazine that provides business community news and
information and publishes a variety of business-related annual
publications.
www.biv.com
> Canadian Business for Social Responsibility
Non-profit that encourages socially responsible business practices.
www.cbsr.ca
> Ethno Business Council of B.C.
Non-profit that supports entrepreneurs who are immigrants to B.C.
www.ethno.org
> Vancouver Board of Trade

Business association that provides advocacy efforts, events, business
programs, and member benefits.
www.boardoftrade.com
Studying in Vancouver
Vancouver is one of the worlds most popular destinations
for international students. If you wish to apply to more than
one B.C. educational institution, visit the Post-Secondary
Application Service of B.C., an online service to help you
apply to most public post-secondary institutions.
www.pas.bc.ca
> B.C. Centre for International Education

Non-profit that promotes and helps develop international education in B.C.
www.bccie.bc.ca
> Canadian Education Centre, Study Canada
A multilingual guide to post-secondary education institutions in Canada.
www.studycanada.ca/english/about-bc.htm
> Citizenship & Immigration Canada
The Canadian Government issues permits for foreign students to study in
Canada, and to work in Canada during and after their studies.
www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/index.asp
Studying in Canada: A Guide for Foreign Students, is available at:
www.cic.gc.ca/english/resources/publications/study.asp
> LearnLiveBC
Website on public post-secondary institutions in Vancouver and B.C., with
information on making applications, transferring credits, scholarships
and financial assistance.
www.learnlivebc.ca
INTERNATIONAL LINKS
Consular Corps
Over 70 countries maintain consular representation in B.C.

www.protocol.gov.bc.ca/protocol/prgs/consular/consular.htm
Asia Pacific Foundation
A national non-profit organization and Canadas leading

independent resource on Asia and Canada-Asia relations.
It maintains an extensive database on business associations
that link Canadian businesses to their counterparts in Asia.
www.asiapacific.ca
JUNE 2008
Over 70 countries
maintain consular
representation
in BRITISH COLUMBIA
government & non-profit
Services for Immigrants
> City of Vancouver
The Citys Social Planning department provides extensive resources and
publishes a Newcomers Guide to Services in Chinese, English, Punjabi,
Spanish and Vietnamese.
www.vancouver.ca/commsvcs/socialplanning
> Immigrant Services Society of B.C.
Provides English as a Second Language training, job search, job skills
training and other services to new immigrants and refugees.
Call: 604-684-7498
www.issbc.org
> MOSAIC
Provides immigrants services such as language instruction, employment
programs, orientation, settlement counselling, family support, paralegal
counselling, interpretation and translation, and community outreach.
Call: 604-254-9626
www.mosaicbc.com
Theres no better way to raise your companys profile and

gain access to resources to grow your business than by
joining any one of the many industry-specific memberbased organizations and associations in Vancouver. To find
out which association(s) may best match your business,
contact VEDC.
1-866-632-9668
info@vancouvereconomic.com
> Multicultural Helping House Society

Provides a variety of services to immigrants, including an employment
support program for immigrants in professions and trades and
settlement support services. Call: 604-879-3277
www.helpinghouse.org
> Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society
Provides settlement and integration services to immigrants including
case management, job finding, and wage subsidy program for work
placement assistance. Call: 604-324-7733
www.pics.bc.ca
> Skills Connect for Immigrants Program
Helps immigrants secure jobs that fully utilize their pre-arrival skills.
www.ecdev.gov.bc.ca/ProgramsAndServices/IQU/SkillsConnect
> S.U.C.C.E.S.S.
Provides man y services for immigrants, including settlement
information and referral, family and youth counselling, language training,
employment and small business training, volunteer and community
development programs. Call: 604-684-1628
www.successbc.ca
> WelcomeBC
Provides information to help newcomers to B.C. find out about English
language courses, employment, health, education, recreation and other
services and resources in their new communities.
Call EnquiryBC at: 1-800-663-7867
www.gov.bc.ca
www.ag.gov.bc.ca/immigration/index.htm
maps
> VANCOUVER & ASIA PACIFIC
> GREATER VANCOUVER
> CITY OF VANCOUVER
> DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER
BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE maps
JUNE 2008
vancouver & asia pacific
OTTAWA
VANCOUVER
MONTRAL
TORONTO
SEATTLE
BEIJING
CHICAGO
SAN FRANCISCO
SEOUL
LOS ANGELES
TOKYO
PHOENIX
DALLAS
NEW YORK
ATLANTA
HONOLULU
MIAMI
HONG KONG
MEXICO CITY
SINGAPORE
SYDNEY
MELBOURNE
AUCKLAND
JUNE 2008
greater vancouver
N
0
5
KM
U.S.A.
JUNE 2008
city of vancouver
E n g l i s h
B a y
UNIVERSITY
OF BRITISH
COLUMBIA
VANCOUVER
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Major Commercial Zone

Major Industrial Zone
Major Port/Airport Facilities
Agricultural Areas
Burr
ard Inlet
downtown vancouver
JUNE 2008
..... Aquabus
..... False Creek Ferries
Hospital
Park
Shopping District
SkyTrain Route
West Coast Express

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of all the places in the world to invest, of

all the cities in which to do business, only

Creative, intelligent, highly skilled

As a home to both new industries (like digital media) and

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE THINK VANCOUVER BRAINS & BEAUTY

brains & beauty

A smart city with a fastgrowing workforce in a

large Canadian citiesthe creative class that helps

Businesses benefit from a diverse workforce thats

Businesses can bank on a workforce thats not only happy

Photo: mark doherty

Ingenuity and creativity are hallmarks of the region.

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE THINK VANCOUVER INNOVATION INCUBATOR

Photo: jason pfiefer

A strong tradition of public &

space shuttles to Sierra Wirelesss modem to the

The rise of high technology-based industries has been

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Photo: busby perkins + will

In the world of architecture and urban planning,

Vancouver is walking the walk at a time when other

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BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE THINK VANCOUVER GLOBAL GATEWAY

The global economy at your

Vancouvers award-winning airport (ranked fourth in

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE THINK VANCOUVER OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITY

2010: A celebration of the

Photo: city of vancouver

2010 Winter Games by the

17: days of Olympic Games events

10: days of Paralympic Games events

5,500: projected number of Olympic Games athletes

1,350: projected number of Paralympic Games

80+: countries participating in Olympic Winter Games

10,000: number of media representatives covering

250,000+: projected number of visitors to the

3 billion+: number of worldwide television

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE VEDC: YOUR BUSINESS LINK

The Vancouver Economic

VEDCs economic development activities are based on

VEDC is the City of

Starting a business in Vancouver

The purpose of these activities is to bring the best

Growing your business in Vancouver

VEDC also serves as the voice of business to Vancouvers

Working with business districts

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE VEDC: YOUR BUSINESS LINK

VEDC works with BIAs on a variety of programs, including

VEDC SERVES AS THE

photo: TOURISM VANCOUVER/ROBERT KENT

Many districts have business improvement areas (BIAs)

VANCOUVER HAS A DYNAMIC, HIGHLY

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE ECONOMIC PROFILE

photo: istockphoto / volodymyr kyrylyuk

The Economist Intelligence Unit ranked

WORLDS MOST LIVABLE CITY*

The 2008 KPMG Competitive Alternatives study found

the b.c. government is a

Area (sq. km):

Source: Statistics Canada 2006 Census

photo: sea-to-sky highway improvement project

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE ECONOMIC PROFILE

Top marginal personal income tax rates remain below

British Columbia has an on-going program aimed at

Business & Investment Guide

Business & Investment Guide