PARKSVILLE - A MECCA FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS
Parksville Rated Nation's 2nd-Best for Small Business
According to a survey published this week (10/20/2008) in the Financial Post and the National Post, Parksville rates 2nd highest in Canada as the best place to start & operate a small business. Only Lloydminster on the Alberta/Saskatchewan border rated higher.
"The rest of the world is now discovering what we have known for a long time, "Ed Galenzoski, President of the Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce, said this week. "This region is without a doubt one of the best places in Canada to live, work and set up a business."
The article in the Financial Post & National Post goes on to say that It's "a place whose very name oozes sleepy," but "a vibrant culture of entrepreneurialism has taken root."
The (BASE) Assistance for Successful Enterprise program can take credit for some of this success. The Chamber of Commerce brought together 34 mentors and coaches who were prepared to help budding entrepreneurs, free of charge. In 12 months, 107 entrepreneurs signed up.
The survey concludes: "Entrepreneurs in smaller cities, particularly those in Western Canada, actually have the best opportunity for success." Parksville's climate and location are a big part of its success - the home-based sector is particularly vibrant. People are making more business decisions based on lifestyle - Parksville is a great place to live, work and play.