The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce has launched the New to Canada program to help refugees and immigrants make better business connections.
The membership will give newcomers opportunities to network with established Greater Victoria entrepreneurs, develop their professional network, and seek mentorship and access potential clients and customers.
“When someone comes to this country, whether as an immigrant or a refugee, there are possibly barriers there because they don’t know anybody,” said chamber CEO Bruce Williams.
“They might be bringing a business idea from another country, but they don’t necessarily know how to integrate themselves into our business communities.”
“We know that newcomers are vital for the future of our region and the best way we can help build good business and great community is by connecting new entrepreneurs with our welcoming business community.”
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“Fresh ideas add vibrancy and create resilience, and having the support of established organizations ensures a smoother path to success for everyone.”
The program offers a free, two-year membership to the chamber for entrepreneurs who have had their Canada PR or citizenship for less than years.
Applicants are also required to have a valid Greater Victoria business license.
“The goal is to help these new Canadians, these new to Canada people succeed in their business,” said Williams.
Many immigrants and entrepreneurs contribute to Greater Victoria’s economic mosaic.
“We know that when people come here to start a business, it helps grow our economy, it diversifies the economy,” he further said.
“Many of them will bring unique ideas that don’t already exist here, and some will bring products and services that enhance the existing sectors of business that we have.”
The program is funded by Air Canada, the Victoria Airport Authority, the Victoria Foundation, and Western Design + Build.
“Air Canada is proud to support the New to Canada Program, which fosters community integration and provides opportunities for new Canadians to thrive,” said Serge Corbeil, Director, Government Relations, Western Region at Air Canada.
“As air connectivity drives business, Air Canada is supporting the growth of small businesses in Greater Victoria and connecting them globally across our expansive network.”
The program criteria are as follows:
- Be a newcomer and have had a Canada PR or citizenship for three or less years;
- Have a business license to operate in the Greater Victoria Region;
- Applications are limited to one business per individual.
The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce has served the Greater Victoria region since 1863 by working together to build good business and community for people through advocacy, networking, professional development, and innovative services.
