Starting a Business

Business Support Starts Here

The Cariboo is built by people who aren’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and they’re equally willing to lend a hand.

Whether you’re opening your first business, expanding an existing company or bringing a new idea to the region, you’ll find a network of organizations ready to help. From local business advice and financing to workforce programs, funding opportunities and government services, these resources can help you take your next step with confidence.

Around here, success isn’t just measured by the businesses we build. It’s also measured by how willing people are to help each other succeed.

Local Business Support

Cariboo Regional District – Economic Development

Regional economic development initiatives, investment information and resources that support businesses across the Cariboo.

City of Quesnel – Economic Development

Business development services, investment information and support for businesses locating or expanding in Quesnel.

City of Williams Lake – Economic Development

Resources, business information and economic development services for companies investing and growing in Williams Lake.

District of 100 Mile House – Economic Development

Business development resources, investment information and support for businesses in the South Cariboo.

Chambers of Commerce & Business Associations

Quesnel & District Chamber of Commerce

Business advocacy, networking opportunities, events and services that support local businesses.

Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce

Advocates for local business while providing networking opportunities, events and business resources.

South Cariboo Chamber of Commerce

Supports local businesses through advocacy, networking and initiatives that strengthen the regional economy.

Downtown Quesnel Business Association

Works to enhance and promote Downtown Quesnel through beautification, marketing and business initiatives.

South Quesnel Business Association

Supports local businesses through neighbourhood improvements, beautification, marketing and community projects.

West Quesnel Business Association

Promotes and supports businesses throughout West Village while helping create a vibrant place to live, shop and work.

Williams Lake Downtown Business Association

Leads revitalization, marketing and beautification projects that help create a thriving downtown business community.

Business Development & Financing

Community Futures Cariboo Chilcotin

Business loans, one-on-one advice, workshops, succession planning and support for entrepreneurs and business owners.

Community Futures North Cariboo

Financing, coaching, business planning and resources for entrepreneurs starting, buying or growing a business.

Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT)

Funding programs and business supports that help northern B.C. businesses invest, innovate and grow.

Women’s Enterprise Centre (WeBC)

Business loans, mentoring, education and resources that help women start, grow and purchase businesses.

Venture Connect

Connects buyers and sellers while helping preserve and strengthen businesses in rural and remote communities

Innovate BC

Supports innovation through funding, programs and connections for entrepreneurs and growing businesses.

Venture Acceleration Program

A program through Innovate BC that helps technology companies refine their business model and accelerate growth.

Hiring, Training & Workforce

WorkBC

Employment services, hiring supports, wage subsidies, training programs and labour market resources for employers and job seekers.

Provincial Business Resources

Service BC

Provides information and assistance with provincial government programs, services and permits.

BC Registries

Register and manage businesses, societies, cooperatives and other legal entities online.

BC Bid

Find and compete for public sector procurement opportunities across British Columbia.

FrontCounter BC

A one-stop service for permits, licences and authorizations related to natural resource businesses.