Your business is now well-established in Quebec, and you are considering expanding into Western Canada? Or perhaps have you just launched your business in British Columbia and want to maximize your chances of entrepreneurial success.

The Pacific Québec team offers you an overview of this province’s assets and provides a strategic framework to kickstart your development.

British Columbia at a glance

• $300 billion: GDP of the province (2023)
• +5.3 million (+1.33%): BC population (+ average annual population growth rate)
• $100,000: Median household income (2023)
  
• +500,000 (98%): Number of small businesses (% of small businesses in the economy)
  

5 reasons to develop your business in BC

Diverse economic sectors and a business-friendly environment

British Columbia boasts a diversified economy with strong sectors such as technology, natural resources, tourism, film and television production, and agriculture.

The province also offers a business-friendly climate with competitive tax rates, government incentives, and support programs. The provincial government actively encourages entrepreneurship through initiatives like the BC Tech Fund and various grants and tax credits.

This economic diversity guarantees a stable environment for the development and growth of your business on Canada’s West Coast.

Innovation and sustainability: a forward-looking market

Whether it’s sustainable development or technological advances, British Columbia is investing in a forward-looking economy.

With 98% of its energy coming from clean or renewable sources, the province has one of the most decarbonized power grids in North America. Additionally, while natural resources like timber, farmland, and water are essential to its economy, the provincial government legislates in favor of their preservation.

Located north of Silicon Valley, the province also has a unique tech hub, with over 11,000 active companies in the tech sector. Many of these are focused on environmental technologies (clean tech) such as renewable energy, water treatment, or waste management.

A magnet for a skilled and well-educated workforce

The province offers a highly educated and skilled workforce, supported by renowned educational institutions like the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Simon Fraser University (SFU). This talent pool is further enhanced by inter-provincial and international immigration, bringing academic and professional backgrounds that enrich the local labor market.

The presence of talent with diverse skills and cultural backgrounds is crucial for companies across all sectors, particularly in technology and innovation.

Strategic location: a gateway to the Pacific and North America

Ranked among the busiest and most efficient commercial ports in North America, Vancouver has the infrastructure needed to distribute your products to the rapidly growing markets of Southeast Asia, as well as to other cities along the U.S. West Coast. Moreover, rail and highway networks provide access to other regions of North America.

If international expansion is part of your long-term strategy, British Columbia is the perfect springboard to other global markets.

Some strategic advice before you get started

Understand your market

It cannot be stressed enough: before considering your expansion on Canada’s West Coast or elsewhere, it’s essential to have a comprehensive understanding of your market.

A thorough market analysis will help you better understand industry trends, your customers’ specific needs, and your competitive environment. This data will enable you to identify potential opportunities and threats to make informed strategic decisions.

Define your personas, know your customers

Once you’ve gained a comprehensive understanding of the local market, it’s crucial to gather detailed information on your potential customers’ preferences, behaviors, and needs. This will allow you to tailor your market approach and reach your prospects most efficiently.

To do this, define a few customer profiles (personas) likely to acquire your products and services, and develop a set of characteristics for each: age, average income, hobbies, preferred distribution and communication channels.

Indeed, the clientele in British Columbia may differ from those you’ve acquired in Eastern Canada or elsewhere!

Build an integrated marketing strategy

Once you have a solid understanding of your market and customers, it’s time to develop multichannel marketing strategies to reach your prospects where they are.

Whether it’s digital marketing, content marketing, public relations, or traditional advertising, choose the most cost-effective and efficient means to convert your prospects into customers.

To evaluate the effectiveness of your strategy, be sure to define a series of key performance indicators (KPIs) for each of the predefined channels. This continuous analytical approach will allow you to redirect your efforts in the right direction.

Develop your network and engage in local initiatives

It’s no secret, but this reality is even more evident in British Columbia: the credibility and visibility of your business heavily depend on your local presence.

To break the ice, establish strategic partnerships with other businesses and stakeholders. These relationships foster your development by giving you access to shared resources and the market you wish to penetrate.

Joining a local chamber of commerce, an industry association specific to your business, or participating in an entrepreneurial trade show are among the options to consider before fully entering the market. Local partners will provide key information, and who knows, future collaboration opportunities.

Highlight your sustainability efforts

Given the significant role that sustainability plays in British Columbia, consider developing eco-friendly practices within your operations and integrating them into your communication.

Not only will you be doing a service to the environment, but your brand will also gain credibility among prospects and partners who are sensitive to ecological issues.

Various local or international certifications exist to conduct an audit and recognize the sustainability of your business. The BC government has also implemented various incentives for eco-friendly practices.

What are you waiting for?

And now, convinced that Western Canada has the assets necessary for the next stages of your development? You’re just one step away!

To implement a marketing and sales strategy, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Our bilingual skills, expertise, and local experience are at your service to ensure your successful integration in British Columbia.