Dear editor,
The Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce is saddened by the recent announcement of Small Business BC鈥檚 (SBBC) bankruptcy. As a vital resource for entrepreneurs across the province, SBBC鈥檚 closure underscores the growing pressures faced by small businesses in British Columbia.
At a time when provincial surveys show declining confidence among small and medium-sized enterprises, we are encouraged by the resilience and optimism displayed by businesses in the Comox Valley. According to a very recent Municipal Business Initiative survey, 59 per cent of businesses in Courtenay and Comox feel more optimistic about their future compared to last year, a stark contrast to the broader B.C. context where less than a third of businesses consider themselves in good health.
Similarly, our recent Rural Business Initiative survey revealed that 41 per cent of businesses in Electoral Area C are more optimistic this year, with another 41 per cent maintaining the same level of optimism.
Small Business BC鈥檚 closure is a loss for entrepreneurs across the province. Here in the Comox Valley, we remain optimistic and ready to support our local businesses. The resilience and optimism shown by our business owners inspire us to continue our work as a trusted resource and advocate for economic growth in the region.
The Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce is calling on all levels of government 鈥� municipal, provincial, and federal 鈥� to take immediate action to support small businesses during this pivotal time. The closure of Small Business BC highlights the urgent need for enhanced government-led initiatives to recognize the essential role that small businesses play in our communities, to reduce operational costs, and to increase funding opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises. Local businesses are the backbone of our economy, and they require coordinated, multi-level government support to sustain jobs, drive innovation, and fuel economic recovery.
As we navigate this challenging time, the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce stands as a beacon of support and collaboration. Together, we will continue to build on our region鈥檚 strengths and ensure that local entrepreneurs have the tools and resources they need to succeed.
Tracey Clark,
Executive director
Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce
