Business Support in the Town of Sidney
Starting and running a business in Sidney comes with a range of resources to help entrepreneurs navigate everything from licensing and financing to hiring and operations. Whether you’re launching a new venture or expanding an existing one, here are some key supports available to businesses in Sidney.
Getting Started: Business Registration & Licensing
Town of Sidney Guide to Starting a Business
Before opening your doors, it’s essential to register your business and ensure compliance with local regulations. The Town of Sidney Business License is a requirement for all businesses operating within the town. If your business operates across multiple municipalities, you may also qualify for a Mobile Business Licence, streamlining the process by allowing you to work in multiple jurisdictions under a single license.
To legally operate under a specific name, you’ll need to register it through the Business Registry, ensuring it’s unique and recognized by the province. If you’re unsure about zoning regulations, the Town of Sidney Zoning Bylaws provide clear guidance on where different types of businesses can be located.
Financial Support & Funding Options
Securing the right funding can make all the difference in getting your business off the ground. A variety of Business Financing Options are available, ranging from traditional bank loans to government grants and private investment opportunities. Local and provincial programs offer funding tailored to small businesses, startups, and industry-specific ventures.
Understanding Business Data & Foot Traffic
For businesses looking to analyze customer trends and pedestrian activity, Eco-Counter provides valuable data on foot traffic patterns in Sidney. This can help businesses choose prime locations, optimize store hours, and refine marketing strategies.
Hiring & Workforce Development
Finding the right employees is a crucial part of growing a successful business. Several resources support hiring, especially for businesses interested in bringing on students or co-op employees.
- WorkBC connects employers with job seekers and provides hiring incentives, wage subsidies, and recruitment assistance.
- ACE-WIL supports employers in hiring work-integrated learning students from across British Columbia, offering access to a skilled and eager workforce.
- Canada Summer Jobs, UVic and Camosun College Co-op Services provide businesses with the opportunity to hire post-secondary students for co-op terms, bringing fresh perspectives and industry knowledge to their teams.
These resources ensure businesses in Sidney have access to skilled labor while also supporting students in gaining valuable work experience.
Final Steps & Additional Support
Navigating the business landscape can be complex, but the Sidney BIA offers a wealth of resources to make the process easier. Whether you’re applying for a business license, seeking financial support, or hiring employees, there are many tools and programs available to support your success. For questions or additional support, connect with Natalie Bobrowich, Business Development Manager, at natalie@sidneybia.ca.
Grants, Benefits and Subsidies
Innovation Canada, WorkBC Wage Subsidy, Securing Small Business Rebate , Digital Adoption Program