As of March 2024 Community Futures Central Island has lent $53,351,375 to 3014 local small businesses in our region leveraging $72,683,353 in our communities and creating/maintaining 6,941 jobs.

Community Futures contributes significantly to economic development throughout the Central Vancouver Island region. Our office works closely with the region’s municipal governments, the central Island Regional Districts, and various Chambers of Commerce in addressing economic and labour market challenges. We have forged strong links with Vancouver Island University as we work together to prepare the next generation of community leaders, workers and entrepreneurs!

Our resource section will help guide you through the intricate world of business and how to register online. Ask yourself the question and find the solution, right here.

Are you ready to go to the next step?

Tools

Self assessment is a great way to get started

  • Entrepreneurial Self-Assessment Survey  will evaluate your entrepreneurial traits – Click to view
  • Canada Business Network has tools on how to start a successful business – Click to view

Tools for a viable business plan 

Assistance from experts in various business specialties can often be the key to improving a business or helping it through difficult situations. Community Futures is available to help address a range of business issues or to assist in taking a business to the next level in performance.

Advising

Assistance from experts in various business specialties can often be the key to improving a business or helping it through difficult situations. Community Futures is available to help address a range of business issues or to assist in taking a business to the next level in performance.

Regional Business Advisory Services

Our Regional Business Advisors work one on one with existing businesses to help stabilize and increase, as well as if required, identify and diversify revenues streams. They advise and coach business owners to determine their specific needs and align you with practical tools, resources and strategies to help your business become more resilient and successful.

Entrepreneur in Residence Program

Are you looking to start a business and have questions that you need help with? Are you in business but are looking for some guidance? The Entrepreneur in Residence program allows you access to invaluable advice from a successful entrepreneur.

Consulting

Strategic Planning

Strategic Planning is the time when we work with your team on an organizational assessment, leading to a plan with ideas for achieving your goals . Simply put – we ask you to think about “Where are we now?” ,” Where are we going?” and “How will we get there?” As well, our proposal writers have written many winning proposals and grant applications, and will get you closer to the money. Ask us how!

Export Navigator

Exporting allows you to expand the horizons of your small business beyond the local market. Export Navigators offers FREE support and ongoing guidance to help your business grow outside of B.C.

Venture Connect

Selling or buying a business? Venture Connect prepares businesses for a sale, filling the gap between entrepreneurs and investors looking for select business

Entrepreneurs with Disabilities

Two programs are available to provide support for persons with disabilities, who are interested in being self-employed or already operate a business. Find out how to access business services including: mentoring and one-on-one counseling services; access to business training and development; business loans.

More Resources

Small Business Solver

Where can I get small business advice?

Have a problem or area of your business that you need help with? Small Business Solver’s  self-diagnostic tools will help you pinpoint and access the tools and resources needed.

One Stop - BC Business Registry

How do I register a business?

BC Business Registry provides the A,B,C’s to obtaining a business name and registering your  business.

BizPal

What licenses or permits are needed to operate my business?

Biz Pal, a service provided by the federal, provincial/territorial, and municipal government, streamlines  your business permit and licensing experience.

Small Business BC

Where do I go to learn about business?

It is good to learn one new thing a day. Small Business BC is the premier resource centre for knowledge-based business products and services.

Pathway to a Successful Business Purchase. Adapted Buyer’s Workbook for Non-Profit and Charitable Organizations