A great idea and a solid plan can help you launch your business. But successful entrepreneurs and business owners also continue to build their network, knowledge and skills even after they’ve started a business.

Many resources and opportunities are available to B.C. businesses, including financial assistance, advice, skill development and more. As a business owner, you’ve got much to gain from tapping into these opportunities.

Get support and training for your small business from the government programs and resources listed in this section.

B.C. Business Support

The following organizations are dedicated to helping new and developing businesses:

• RuralBC's regional offices help rural investors and businesses by improving access to resources and support. Also check RuralBC’s Regional Economic Diversification Strategies for links to regional economic development groups across B.C.
• Community Futures offers access to local community economic development project resources. Visit Community Futures’ BC Locations to contact your local office
• BC Chamber of Commerce provides programs and services to support local business, economic growth and diversification
• The Women’s Enterprise Centre offers business resources to women entrepreneurs. Members can access skills development services, business loans, free guidance, mentoring and more

B.C. Business Training

Employers may need to access training for a specific project or for general development. Use the following resources to help you with your learning needs:

• Small business owners and managers should check out WorkBC's HR Resource Guide. It provides information on a number of B.C. college and university human resource courses. From there you can also access articles on HR topics
• Continuing studies programs at local post-secondary institutions offer a range of courses for employer and employee development. Check with each institutions’ contract training services as they may also offer customized business management training
• BCcampus, a partnership of B.C.'s public post-secondary institutions, offers distance education and one-stop access to online learning
• Skills for Growth: British Columbia's Labour Strategy to 2020 provides information on the Province’s labour market priorities and plans. This strategy is designed to help British Columbians maximize their skills and productivity