Local Resources
Nanaimo Prosperity Corporation
Coming soon!
Nanaimo Economic Development
Access personalized business start-up, expansion and relocation assistance. email economic.development@nanaimo.ca Ph: 250-755-4465, or visit in person at 411Dunsmuir Street.
Community Futures Central Island
Community Futures offers assistance and a variety of services and tools to help entrepreneurs and small business owners achieve their goals, including business support services, business planning advice, and financing.
Innovation Island
Based in Nanaimo Innovation Island helps early-stage to mature technology, applied science, and manufacturing entrepreneurs to grow their companies.
Nanaimo Chamber
Nanaimo Chamber is a not-for-profit, member-based association. Members benefit from networking events and industry sector advocacy to all levels of government.
Central Vancouver Island Multicultural Society (CVIMS)
CVIMS provides a range of free services to immigrants, temporary foreign workers, post-secondary international students and refugees, including job search and language training.
Petroglyph Development Group
Petroglyph Development Group is a wholly-owned corporation of the Snuneymuxw First Nation delegated to manage business and economic development for the Nation.
Downtown Nanaimo (DN)
Downtown Nanaimo is a business improvement association that supports the Nanaimo BIA area properties and businesses through programs and projects in the areas of advocacy, public safety, beautification, marketing and events. DN plays an important role in enhancing the area's economic vibrancy.
Tourism Nanaimo
Tourism Nanaimo operates the tourist visitor centre and markets Nanaimo as a tourism destination. They promote festivals and events, accommodations, things to see and do, and outdoor adventures.
WorkBC Centre Nanaimo
WorkBC Nanaimo helps people find jobs, explore career options and improve their skills. This organization offers free job postings to employers, helps fill vacancies, and provides information on wage and training subsidies. Located at 101 – 155 Skinner Street in Nanaimo.
Island Health
Island Health delivers many types of health care services for residents, clients and patients. If you're looking to open a business that serves food or drink, cares for children or the elderly, or is involved with personal care such as tanning, tattooing, or hair, your business license approval will involve permission from Island Health. VIHA Access Centre is located at 2000 North Island highway, Nanaimo. Ph: 250-739-5710
Small Business BC
Small Business BC helps British Columbia’s entrepreneurs grow successful and sustainable businesses through expert business advisors, educational services, easy-to-use free resources and engaging community events.