of all the places in the world to invest, of all

© Vancouver Economic Development Commission 2008

of all the places in the world to invest, of all the cities in which to do business, only one offers all these competitive advantages.

THINK VANCOUVER

One of the most dynamic and diverse economies in North America. A setting of majestic beauty. An enviable climate. Unsurpassed quality of life. No wonder Vancouver is a magnet for intelligent, talented people from around the world.

Creative, entrepreneurial citizens make Vancouver an innovation incubator—a place where new ideas, products and services are born. One of the greenest cities in North America, it encourages sustainable thinking while supporting business development.

Creative, intelligent, highly skilled people from all over the world. A welcoming, cosmopolitan lifestyle. A wealth of activities at your doorstep. A thriving, entrepreneurial business environment.

This is Vancouver.

As a home to both new industries (like digital media) and traditional ones (like resource extraction), Vancouver has positioned itself in the vanguard of the global economy.

And the global economy is at Vancouver’s doorstep. Closest to Asia of all major North American cities, Vancouver is a fast-growing, increasingly important gateway between North America and the booming economies of Asia Pacific. Its multicultural character makes it an ideal nexus for trans-Pacific business services. The convergence of the world’s leadwing athletes, media outlets and corporations for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games will heighten Vancouver’s profile, amplify its business opportunities and enhance its global business connections.

Choose Vancouver. We’ll help your business grow naturally.

The complete VEDC Business & Investment Guide is available in PDF format on our website at: www.vancouvereconomic.com. To request the guide in book format ($25) please phone 1-866-632-9668.

brAINs & beAUTyA smart city with a fast-growing workforce in a majestic setting.In survey after survey, Vancouver ranks as one of the world’s most livable cities. Its bustling downtown business core is minutes away from world-class ski resorts, pristine beaches and spectral old-growth forests.

And its highly skilled, entrepreneurial and competitive workforce makes it one of the best places to do business. In 2008 Vancouver was named one of the smartest cities in the world by the Intelligent Community Forum. FastCompany magazine recently named it a “Global Fast City,” citing it as a leading competitor for global talent and a leader in environmental sustainability.

VANCOUVer Is FUll OF eNTrePreNeUrs - The “CreatiVe Class” ThAT mAkes A CITy VIbrANT

businesses can bank on a workforce that’s not only happy and healthy but “book smart” and “business savvy.” more than a third of the population has undergraduate degrees, and ten per cent have advanced degrees. Vancouver has the highest concentration of artists among

large Canadian cities—the “creative class” that helps make a city vibrant and leading-edge. entrepreneurs constitute the second-largest meetup.com group in Vancouver (outpaced only by hikers). small-business creation happens more quickly here. Cities, like companies, attract like-minded people, so the critical mass of creative entrepreneurs expands steadily through self-selected in-migration.

businesses benefit from a diverse workforce that’s growing fast—more than 40,000 people immigrate to british Columbia each year. because Vancouver is an Asia-Pacific business centre, workforce diversity is particularly important. more than two-thirds of recent immigrants came from Asia.

Ingenuity and creativity are hallmarks of the region. mountain equipment Co-op, the largest retail cooperative in Canada with 1,100 employees, uses a unique business model to offer high-quality outdoor goods, including its own brand, to 2.6 million members. lululemon, built around yoga wear, is an international success. Dozens of internet entrepreneurs are based here, including the co-founder of Open Text Corporation, the founder of NCompass labs (acquired by microsoft), and the young man who started the photo-sharing website Flickr.

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » THINK VANCOUVER » BRAINS & BEAUTY

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INNOVATION INCUbATOrA strong tradition of public & private sector innovation.Vancouver grows ideas. scientists, engineers, researchers and designers create knowledge and concepts that mutate across industry lines. entrepreneurs transform discoveries into valuable products and services. New approaches spark high-tech industries and bolster the productivity of traditional industries. Companies like Gemcom (mining productivity software), Copperleaf (infrastructure management software) and Wolf medical systems (healthcare productivity software) are international stories.

Vancouver’s economy has been transformed in the last quarter-century. The historic dependence on port and resource extraction activities has been replaced by a strong service economy that caters to both local and international needs. And the city exports expertise in engineering, sustainability, management, financial and technical services to companies and governments the world over.

manufacturing enterprises succeed by drawing on the intrinsic assets of the community to identify and exploit market niches. Vancouverites’ enjoyment of the mountains and ocean has spurred development of a performance and technical apparel industry that is conquering world markets. leading manufacturers come to the region’s ski resorts not just for an exceptional holiday, but to check out the latest gear. exports of food and related products are on the rise, thanks to the fertility of the Fraser Valley and the abundance of salmon and other seafood in the Pacific Ocean.

UNIVersITy-bUsINess COllAbOrATION hAs GIVeN rIse TO ANy NUmber OF start-ups AND sPIN OFFs

The rise of high technology-based industries has been marked by the emergence of globally competitive companies, making the region home to many unique, technology-based products, from the arm used on

space shuttles to sierra Wireless’s modem to the superconducting quantum computer being developed by D Wave systems Inc. highly competitive local industries with global reputations include clean technologies and planning for sustainability, biotechnology, digital media and film and TV production.

Vancouver’s innovation is built on strong institutional support. This includes public sector investments in top quality education and research, and effective public-private partnerships. The governments of Canada and british Columbia provide significant support to post-secondary education, technology training, research and innovation. Canada has one of the highest rates of broadband and overall internet access in the world, and british Columbia has the highest rate in Canada.

Two outstanding universities in Vancouver, the University of british Columbia and simon Fraser University—along with Western Canada’s leading polytechnic (british Columbia Institute of Technology) and numerous community colleges, technological institutes and government research centres—complement their teaching and research expertise with excellent international linkages and a commitment to collaboration with business. This milieu encourages spin-off companies, startup incubation, technology licensing and commercialization. Companies like Neuromed, Cardiome Pharmaceutical, Nexterra energy and rainmaker studios grew out of the region’s collaborative environment.

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » THINK VANCOUVER » INNOVATION INCUBATOR JUNE 2008

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GreeN GrOWThAddressing climate change while improving the business climate.Vancouverites’ visceral connection to the outdoors provides a unique competitive advantage in a world struggling to deal with environmental issues. It’s no coincidence that several globally prominent environmental groups (including the David suzuki Foundation) are based in Vancouver, that UN habitat was conceived at a Vancouver conference, or that in 2008 british Columbia introduced North America’s first revenue-neutral carbon tax, which addressed climate change while providing equivalent tax reductions to reduce the impact on businesses and consumers.

Vancouver is “walking the walk” at a time when other North American cities are still “talking the talk.” Concern for the environment is being transformed by the region’s entrepreneurs into green solutions in demand the world over. Companies like ballard Power systems (fuel cell technology) and Westport Innovations (clean-burning alternative fuels) are pioneers in sustainable transportation. Architects and designers like holland barr, bing Thom, Peter busby and hotson bakker are creating eco-friendly buildings and communities on five continents. Urban planners like larry beasley are replicating the “Vancouver model” in cities as far from british Columbia as houston, Dubai, sao Paolo and Abu Dhabi.

In the world of architecture and urban planning, “Vancouverism” has become shorthand for “sustainable urban development.”

These green initiatives are being achieved without sacrificing the conditions that make the region an increasingly attractive environment for investment. Government debt-to-GDP levels have been significantly cut in recent years, and individual and corporate tax rates have been steadily reduced. An ongoing program to lessen government regulation has yielded a 40 per cent reduction in regulatory burdens since 2001.

WITh FeDerAl, PrOVINCIAl, reGIONAl AND CITy sUPPOrT, green initiatiVes are proliferating WhIle reGUlATOry bUrDeNs Are beING eAseD

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » THINK VANCOUVER » GREEN GROWTH JUNE 2008

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GlObAl GATeWAyThe global economy at your doorstep.Transportation has always been central to Vancouver’s psyche. british Columbia agreed to join Canada only in exchange for a rail link to the centre of the continent. The city developed around the very spot where the first transcontinental rail line met the Pacific coast. And its name memorializes the first british sea captain to reach the area.

blessed with one of the world’s best natural deep-water harbours, the shortest distances to Asia of any major North American city, and close proximity to the U.s., Vancouver was destined from its founding in 1886 to become a key international transportation hub. As global economic growth centres increasingly on the Pacific rim, the city’s transportation assets become ever more valuable. And in an age of instant global communication, Vancouver is fortunate to be in a time zone that allows access to all three centres of world commerce (london, New york, hong kong) in a single working day.

As trans-Pacific traffic grows, Vancouver is investing heavily to maximize the economic opportunities. The governments of Canada and british Columbia—together with Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, Vancouver’s international airport (yVr), the regional transit authority, the three Class 1 inter-continental railways that serve the port, and other private interests—are ambitiously upgrading the capacity and efficiency of Vancouver’s global gateway. Transportation investment commitments in the region to date total over $20 billion.

TrANsPOrTATION INVesTmeNT COmmITmeNTs IN The reGION TO DATe TOTAl OVer $20 billion

The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority was created in 2008 to bring together the three port authorities and increase regional efficiency. Already North America’s leading port in export tonnage, Vancouver expects to triple container flow by 2020, while minimizing environmental impact.

Vancouver’s award-winning airport (ranked fourth in the world in the 2007) is less than half an hour from downtown. Infrastructure investment is dramatically expanding capacity and includes a direct rapid-transit link to downtown. Cargo handling is expected to double by 2020. yVr airport has become a multi-modal hub and distribution centre, with companies like UPs and Fedex opening major, innovative facilities.

Global logistics planning and efficient delivery strategies are spurring development of a strong warehousing and distribution industry in Vancouver– a critical evolution as demand for “just in time” shipping grows. With the streamlining of customs procedures at the nearby U.s. border, the industry is expected to enjoy long-term growth.

Vancouver was a global city before the term was invented. Global inter-connectivity has only reinforced its diverse, multicultural nature. Combining indigenous cultures, longstanding ties to europe, and historic ties to Asia, Vancouver embodies multiculturalism not as a slogan but as part of everyday life. One of the world’s leading tourist and culinary destinations, the city is renowned for world-class cooking that fuses cultural ingredients and influences with local sourcing and sustainable practices.

Cultural ties and family connections to other countries, combined with business-friendly immigration policies, make Vancouver fertile ground for professionals, international entrepreneurs and companies that provide services across cultures and national boundaries. more than 70 countries maintain a consular presence in Vancouver, providing institutional support for the many foreign-based firms that do business here and signaling Vancouver’s stature as a port and an international business centre.

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » THINK VANCOUVER » GLOBAL GATEWAY JUNE 2008

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OUTsTANDING OPPOrTUNITy2010: A celebration of the region’s role in the global economy.In early 2010, athletes, media, sponsors and spectators from around the world will gather in Vancouver, and at the nearby alpine resort of Whistler, for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. This event will take the Vancouver brand to more than 3 billion people around the world: as a world-class tourist and recreational destination, to be sure, but also as a place where innovative and resourceful residents, themselves from all over the world, collaborate to stage and host a global event.

The 2010 Games will showcase Vancouver as a place where leading international businesses work together to introduce new technologies in areas such as infrastructure, health, sustainability, information and communications. As a place where natural beauty and cosmopolitan living co-exist in a sustainable balance. As a place where the planet’s climate and the business climate are both respected. In short, as an emerging 21st century global business centre.

The economic activity generated by the 2010 Winter Games means that now is the ideal time to establish or expand a business presence in Vancouver - the 2010 Commerce Centre in downtown Vancouver is already busy generating deals. The economic impact of the Games, and of the infrastructure investments they have triggered, will last well beyond the lowering of the Olympic Flag. The expo 86 world’s fair brought Vancouver global recognition and a sustained economic boom. The 2010 Games will have a similar effect, but on an exponential scale.

The Games will have other positive long-term effects as well. They will be the most sustainable Games ever. A variety of social, arts, amateur sports and other legacies are already well advanced. british Columbia has fashioned ground-breaking agreements on economic collaboration with other members in the elite fraternity of host cities, including beijing and london. And Vancouver-area businesses are already advising the host city of the 2014 Winter Olympics—sochi, russia—on how to maximize its opportunity.

2010 Winter games by the numbersers

17: days of Olympic Games events (February 12 to 28, 2010)

10: days of Paralympic Games events (March 12 – 21, 2010)

5,500: projected number of Olympic Games athletes and officials

1,350: projected number of Paralympic Games athletes & officials

80+: countries participating in Olympic Winter Games

40+: countries participating in Paralympic Winter Games

10,000: number of media representatives covering the Games on site

250,000+: projected number of visitors to the region

3 billion+: number of worldwide television viewers of the Games

every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this document is accurate and current to may 1, 2008, however, neither the City of Vancouver nor the Vancouver economic Development Commission accepts any liability for actions taken based on this material.

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » THINK VANCOUVER » OUTSTANDING OPPORTUNITY JUNE 2008

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The complete VEDC Business & Investment Guide is available in PDF format on our website at www.vancouvereconomic.com. To request the guide in book format ($25) please phone 1-866-632-9668.

VEDC: YOUR BUSINESS LINKThe Vancouver Economic Development Commission (VEDC) connects local and international businesses in the city of Vancouver.VEDC works to strengthen the economy of the city of Vancouver by helping existing businesses, attracting new businesses, researching business issues and making policy recommendations.

It works closely with elected officials, the consular corps, and relevant departments of all levels of government. It links directly with peer organizations in the region, broad-based and sector-specific industry associations and ethnic business groups. It also engages regularly with post-secondary and technology institutions, legal, real estate and business services professionals, and others whose work affects economic development of the region.

VEDC IS thE CItY Of VaNCOUVER’S ECONOmIC DEVELOpmENt agENCY, LED BY a VOLUNtEER BOaRD Of SENIOR BUSINESS LEaDERS

the purpose of these activities is to bring the best possible information to companies and entrepreneurs interested in business development in the city. Services are comprehensive, confidential and free to clients.

VEDC also serves as the voice of business to Vancouver’s City hall, making recommendations to the City on ways to improve the business climate and make Vancouver more attractive to business from around the globe. In late 2007, VEDC delivered a report to City Council on the city’s business climate, based on input from the business community.

Helping your business grow...naturally.

VEDC’s economic development activities are based on guiding principles approved by the City of Vancouver. (see www.vancouvereconomic.com/page/guiding-principles)

Services to help local businesses and entrepreneurs include:

Starting a business in VancouverVEDC can guide you to the resources necessary to successfully start or relocate a business in the city of Vancouver, including:

profiles of Vancouver and its business districtsanalysis of Vancouver’s economy and business climateStart-up, expansion and relocation servicesBusiness licences, permits and City regulations

Growing your business in VancouverVEDC provides access to the people, tools and services to make your business efficient, sustainable and profitable, including:

Working with City hallBusiness development and marketingSponsorship and event opportunitiesIndustry advocacy and support

Working with business districtsVancouver is a city of business districts, each with its own character, key industries and local customers.

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BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » VEDC: YOUR BUSINESS LINK

VANCOUVER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

Suite 1620, 1075 West Georgia StreetVancouver, BC Canada V6E 3C9Tel: 1-866-632-9668www.vancouvereconomic.com

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many districts have business improvement areas (BIas) that promote the district through events, street-scape improvements and other programs.

VEDC works with BIas on a variety of programs, including profiles for each BIa and its surrounding community.

VEDC SERVES aS thE VOICE Of BUSINESS tO VaNCOUVER’S CItY haLL

HelpinG buSineSSeS locate in VancouVerVEDC markets the city of Vancouver’s strategic location, entrepreneurial spirit, competitive advantages, pro-business climate and outstanding lifestyle across Canada and around the world. VEDC connects international businesses to Vancouver, helping them set up, succeed and grow.

economic development promotionVEDC works to establish the city of Vancouver as the worldwide location of choice for targeted industries through:

marketing and outreachCollaboration with industry associations to promote business opportunities in VancouverSponsorship and participation in industry events and activities

business attractionVEDC provides individual companies and entrepreneurs with investment and business support through:

Supplying customized data and intelligence on business and economic conditions, as well as information on the community, its lifestyle and amenitiesConducting familiarization toursproviding assistance in addressing site selection, business registration, immigration, taxation and regulatory issuesproviding connection and introduction to key Vancouver business resources: local companies, industry associations, relevant government agencies and other facilitators

incoming business delegationsVEDC supports delegations through:

presentations on local business opportunitiesarranging information meetings, company introductions and project toursproviding matchmaking services

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reGional collaborationVEDC collaborates with other municipalities in the region through metro Vancouver Commerce, a vehicle to promote economic development region-wide.

VEDC’s partners in metro Vancouver Commerce are:

citY oF ricHMonD www.richmond.ca

citY oF SurreY www.surrey.ca

citY oF neW WeStMinSter www.city.new-westminster.bc.ca

DiStrict oF nortH VancouVer www.district.north-van.bc.ca

citY oF nortH VancouVer www.cnv.org

for more information about the activities of VEDC and metro Vancouver Commerce, or to access our services call 1-800-632-9688 or email us at: [email protected].

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this document is accurate and current to may 1, 2008, however, neither the City of Vancouver nor the Vancouver Economic Development Commission accepts any liability for actions taken based on this material.

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BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » VEDC: YOUR BUSINESS LINK JUNE 2008

Economic profilE

VANCOUVER HAS A DYNAMIC, HIGHLY DIVERSIFIED URBAN ECONOMY WITH GROWING KNOWLEDGE-BASED SECTORS AND STRONG GLOBAL LINKAGES.


BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » ECONOMIC PROFILE JUNE 2008

*thE Economist intElligEncE Unit rankEd VancoUVEr thE world’s most liVablE city in 2006Physical characteristicsgreater Vancouver, with a population of 2.1 million, is canada’s third largest urban area. located in british columbia, canada’s westernmost province, the region covers nearly 2,900 square kilometres, bordered by the pacific ocean to the west, the Us border to the south, the valley of the fraser river to the east and the coastal mountains to the north. seattle, washington is 226 km to the south, while calgary, alberta is 975 km to the east. Vancouver’s oceanside location gives it a mild climate year round.

the Economist intelligence Unit ranked Vancouver as the world’s most livable city in 2006. the mercer group’s 2007 Quality of living survey ranked Vancouver third of 215 cities worldwide, and first in north america.

Governmentcanada is a federal state; the governments of canada and british columbia both play a role in establishing Vancouver’s business climate.

the Vancouver region, comprising the city of Vancouver and 20 other municipalities, accounts for close to half of british columbia’s population and economic output. a region-wide authority, metro Vancouver, has responsibility for water supply, sewage treatment, garbage disposal and recycling, and other activities. Economic development activities in the region are coordinated by an alliance of municipal economic development agencies known as metro Vancouver commerce.

the city of Vancouver is the largest municipality in the region in terms of population and economic activity. the city’s economic development agency, the Vancouver Economic development commission (VEdc), is a founding member of metro Vancouver commerce, and participates in all metro Vancouver commerce activities. the city’s downtown includes more than half of all commercial office space in the region and serves as the international front door to british columbia.

Business climate

Canada

canada is enjoying strong economic performance and a highly favourable business climate. canada’s 2008 budget noted:

canada’s labour market is strong, with unemployment near a 33 year low and the share of canadians currently employed at a record high.

household net worth is growing strongly and corporate profits are near a record high.

the fiscal position of the consolidated government sector is excellent; the most recent oEcd estimates suggest canada will have the best fiscal position of all g7 nations in 2008.

canada’s real income per capita has grown over 20 per cent since 2001.

the federal corporate tax rate has been reduced from 37.8 per cent in 1980 to 15 per cent by 2012. canada will have the lowest tax rate on new business investment in the g7 by 2011, and will have the lowest statutory tax rate in the g7 by 2012.

the federal debt-to-gdp burden will fall to 25 per cent by 2011/12, the lowest since the 1970s.

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the 2008 kpmg competitive alternatives study found canada has the lowest business costs in the g7. it leads the g7 in manufacturing, software and r&d costs.

kpmg ranked canada first in the g7 for high school science scores, and second in educational attainment and expenditure. canada ranked first in the g7 for environmental laws and second for environmental performance. canada leads the g7 in energy self-sufficiency.

thE b.c. goVErnmEnt is a north amErican lEadEr in thE UsE of pUblic-priVatE partnErshipsBritish Columbia

british columbia’s economy is currently outperforming that of canada, and its business climate is among the most favourable of all canadian provinces.

as noted in its 2008 budget, the government of british columbia has taken major steps to create a stable and competitive tax environment in the province.

the general corporate income tax rate has been reduced from 16.5 per cent in 2000 to 10 per cent in 2011. together with federal tax reductions, this will result in a combined federal and provincial tax rate of 25 per cent by 2012 – well below the average Us rate of 35 per cent. the small business tax rate has been reduced to 3.5 per cent with planned further reductions to 2.5 per cent by 2011.

the threshold for the small business tax rate has been increased to $400,000. business tax burdens in british columbia are among the lowest anywhere in north america.

a number of major personal income tax reductions have also been enacted, cutting income tax rates by a third, with the result that british columbia has the lowest income tax rates in canada for incomes up to $111,000.

top marginal personal income tax rates remain below those in jurisdictions such as california and ontario.

other recent tax reductions include the elimination of the corporate capital tax – on large financial institutions by 2010.

the b.c. government has a strong record of sound fiscal management. a balanced budget is required by law and the province will end the 2007/8 fiscal year with its fourth consecutive budgetary surplus. its ratio of tax supported debt to gdp has fallen from 21.3 per cent in 2002/3 to an estimated 14.1 per cent in 2007/8 and is expected to remain below 14 per cent in future years. the b.c. government enjoys the highest ratings on its debt from both moody’s and standard & poor’s.

the b.c. government is a north american leader in the use of public-private partnerships (ppps) to deliver public-use infrastructure. ppp transfer project risk from government to the private sector through fixed price agreements, guaranteed delivery dates and performance guarantees. about $4.7 billion in ppp projects are completed or under construction, while an additional $2.7 billion in projects is at the competitive selection stage. more than 20 ppp projects have been, or are scheduled to be, delivered on time and on budget.

british columbia has an on-going program aimed at modernizing the regulatory system to promote innovation and economic opportunity, while protecting the public interest. since the program began in 2001, regulatory burdens have been reduced by over 40 per cent.

british columbia has been long recognized as a north american leader in advancing environmental sustainability. the b.c. government recognizes that an attractive business climate addresses long-term sustainability

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city region

AREA(sq.km): 115 2877POPUlAtiON(2006): 578,041 2,116,581POPUlAtiONPERsq.km: 5,039 736PRiVAtEdwElliNgs(2006): 273,804 870,992dwElliNgsPERsq.km: 2381 303

Source: Statistics Canada 2006 Census



issues, such as climate change, as well as short term returns on investment. its 2008 budget introduced one of the most progressive climate action plans in the world, aimed at reducing ghg emissions to 33 per cent below 2007 levels by 2020. a key element of the plan is a revenue neutral carbon tax, set at $10 per tonne of emissions in 2008, rising to $30 per tonne by 2012. taxes raised on carbon will be offset by tax reductions, so the net impact on business and individual taxpayers will be zero.

the carbon tax is part of a much broader set of climate change initiatives, including incentives and tax reductions for energy efficiency upgrades; increased funding for research and energy-related technologies; a “cap and trade” system for large emitters; major transit system expansions; and new demand power management systems.

City of Vancouver

the city of Vancouver operates under the Vancouver charter, a statute of the b.c. government. subject to the terms of the charter, the city raises its own revenues, and issues its own debt.

the city’s 2006 annual financial report notes total revenues of just over $1 billion, of which 48 per cent was from property taxes and an additional 43 per cent from user fees and cost recoveries. property taxes are levied on current market values as assessed by a provincial agency. the 2007 tax rate amounted to about 2.5 per cent of assessed value for most commercial properties.

slightly over half of all property taxes raised goes to fund the city; the remainder funds regional transportation, school and other activities.

net city debt outstanding at the end of 2006 amounted to approximately $730 per capita. Except for local improvements, all city debt has a 10 year term. the city enjoys a triple a credit rating. tax arrears have declined from $35 million in 2002 to $22 million in 2006 (2.21 per cent of taxes levied).

the city has a strong commitment to economic development, outlined in guiding principles adopted in 2006. the city and metro Vancouver have their own substantial environmental sustainability programs, which complement those of the b.c. government.

bUsinEss tax bUrdEns in british colUmbia arE among thE lowEst anywhErE in north amErica

DemoGraPhicsthe regional population has been growing about 1.3 per cent annually in recent years; increases are expected to continue over the next decade, with the population reaching 3 million by 2030. while some suburban municipalities are growing more rapidly, the city of Vancouver continues to see healthy population growth.

with the natural rate of population growth steadily declining, population growth is driven primarily by immigration. canadian and b.c. government policies encourage immigration of people with business and employment-related skills. immigrants account for 40 per cent of the region’s population.

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this high proportion of foreign born individuals provides Vancouver with a talented and diverse labour pool, with strong international connections.

immigrants to canada are well educated: among those immigrating between 2001 and 2006, half had a university degree. among working age individuals, immigrants account for half of all doctorate degrees and over 40 per cent of master’s degrees. immigrants are also, overall, younger than native born canadians.

according to the oEcd, canada has the highest proportion of people aged 25-64 with a college or university certificate among all oEcd countries.

greater Vancouver’s population is better educated than the canadian average. according to the 2006 census, 31 per cent of the working age population has a university degree (canadian average: 23 per cent) and fully 57 per cent has a university or college education (canadian average: 48 per cent).

with a high proportion of immigrants, it is not surprising Vancouver has a very diverse population with a vast

array of languages and cultural backgrounds. more than 40 per cent of the region’s population regularly speaks a language other than English or french at home. cantonese, mandarin, other chinese dialects and punjabi are the most widely used non-English languages. at the workplace English remains the dominant language, but close to 6 per cent of the workforce reports working predominantly using a language other than English or french.

economic structureover the past quarter century, Vancouver’s economy has experienced rapid structural change. Vancouver’s defining economic role has evolved from a service centre for the province’s resource economy to a dynamic urban centre with strong, multi-faceted international connections that have strengthened dramatically with the rise of the economies of asia pacific. the economy is now highly diversified thanks to strengths in many new areas including significant clusters in knowledge-based sectors.

as in all metropolitan areas, sectors providing services to the local population account for the greatest proportion of jobs. retail trade, for example, employs nearly 11 per cent of the regional workforce, while healthcare and social services accounts for 9.3 per cent. an on-going construction boom has raised this sector’s share of jobs from 5.1 per cent in 2001 to 6.4 per cent in 2006.



among export-oriented sectors:

the relatively small and diversified manufacturing sector employs 98,000 people, or 8.5 per cent of the workforce. although this is a smaller share than many other large cities, manufacturing is an important part of the economic landscape. many of the jobs are in management and administration rather than in production.

the strong tourism sector is reflected in 8 per cent of all jobs being in accommodation and food services – a higher proportion than in other canadian cities.

the professional, scientific and technical services sector employs 76,000 people, reflecting the region’s strong orientation to export of knowledge, particularly related to resource industries, engineering and sustainability.

the arts, entertainment and recreation industry, as well as the film/tV/sound industry are far more prominent than in other canadian cities.

the financial services sector is a larger part of the economy than in all other canadian cities except toronto.

Vancouver’s global gateway role is evident in the comparatively high proportion (5.7 per cent) of people working in the transportation industry.

VancoUVEr and british colUmbia arE Enjoying onE of thE strongEst Economic Expansions on rEcord

economic PerformanceVancouver and british columbia are enjoying one of the strongest economic expansions on record. over the past five years, the provincial economy has consistently outpaced the canadian economy.

looking ahead, the province, propelled in large part by strength in the greater Vancouver region, is positioned to continue to outperform the national benchmark. there is widespread agreement among economists and other forecasters that british columbia will remain at or near the top of the provincial growth rankings in the coming years. among other factors, a competitive business and tax climate, asia pacific and the growing gateway role, the hosting of the Vancouver 2010 olympic and

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paralympic winter games, high rates of immigration, high levels of investment and construction, a diverse and skilled workforce and a growing advanced technology sector all contribute to the positive outlook.

the strong economy is translating into rising incomes. after allowing for inflation, british columbians have enjoyed strong growth in average disposable incomes. in addition, b.c.’s comparative performance has been impressive with average incomes growing more quickly than the canadian benchmark and exceeding gains seen in most other provinces.

according to the 2006 census, employment in greater Vancouver reached 1.1 million in 2006, a gain of 11 per cent from 2001. this is stronger than the gain recorded over the previous 5-year period and is the fastest pace of job growth among canada’s three largest metropolitan areas.

Vancouver’s unemployment rate is currently at record lows. at just 4 per cent it is slightly below the province-wide rate and well below the national unemployment rate.

cost comParisonskpmg consulting recently released its 2008 analysis of business costs in 10 countries (australia, canada, france, germany, italy, japan, mexico, the netherlands, United kingdom, United states), and for 136 cities in those countries (see www.competitivealternatives.com) the major findings were:

canada, the U.s. and australia have the most favourable costs among established industrialized countries, with less than 1 per cent difference among these countries.

since 2006, canada has gained ground relative to European countries.

software industry costs are 3.5 per cent lower in canada than in the U.s., while r&d costs are 3.7 per cent lower.

Effective income tax rates for a wide range of operations are lowest in the netherlands, canada and the U.k.

canada has the highest rate of adult participation in the workforce.

compared to other major western cities in north america, Vancouver offers a lower cost of doing business. business costs in Vancouver are lower than in major cities like seattle, san diego, san jose and las Vegas.

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this document is accurate and current to May 1, 2008, however, neither the City of Vancouver nor the Vancouver Economic Development Commission accepts any liability for actions taken based on this material.

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sector profiles

the eleven industries profiled in the following pages are examples of vancouver’s many internationally competitive sectors.

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » DIGITAL MEDIA JUNE 2008


DIGITAL MEDIAVancouver has the perfect ecosystem for a thriving digital media industry: outstanding research and educational assets in science, technology and design, and a strong base of artistic and creative employees.Industry snapshotBritish Columbia has more than 600 digital media companies, which employ about 16,000 people and generate $2.3 billion in annual sales. Greater Vancouver accounts for more than 60 per cent of the digital media companies in the province.

Digital media companies currently operate in five areas: interactive design; digital entertainment and games; digital film, animation and special effects; mobile content and applications including games; and E-learning. By 2010, products developed by Vancouver’s digital sectors will impact many sectors – for example, health care, education and military activities – as practical applications and training tools, and as next generation technology innovations.

Vancouver has one of the top video game clusters in the world, with presence from major publishers including EA (Electronic Arts), Nintendo, THQ, Vivendi/Activision, Disney and Microsoft.

Electronic Arts’ studio in Vancouver is the largest of its kind in the world.

Digital Media has a strong symbiotic relationship with the established film and TV sector, making Vancouver a creative force in North America.

CompetItIve advantagesVancouver is packed with creative and original minds, and digital media companies cite access to a vast talent pool as a top reason for doing business in Vancouver. A tolerant and welcoming attitude towards other cultures, ethnicities and lifestyles draws talented individuals and globally-oriented companies to Vancouver from all over the world.

Vancouver’s downtown, renowned for a unique blend of residential, commercial, arts and cultural space, is the

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perfect environment for digital media - a collaborative confluence of science, technology and art. Thirty per cent of the city’s digital media companies are located in Vancouver’s business core, resulting in a high rate of strategic relationships and lucrative partnerships. Most of the province’s digital media companies are actively involved in collaborative ventures and partnerships with U.S. and other foreign publishers.

BriTiSH ColUMBiA HAS MorE THAN 600 DiGiTAl MEDiA CoMpANiES, wHiCH GENErATE $2.3 BillioN iN ANNUAl SAlESAll of Vancouver’s major post-secondary institutions are engaged in digital media, providing outstanding facilities, training and research services to the private sector. Four institutions recently established together a new location for digital media studies, the Great Northern way Campus. The campus offers a Master’s degree that will prepare digital media professionals with advanced skills and critical management training.

Vancouver is geographically positioned to leverage relationships with l.A.’s entertainment hub, software centres in Seattle and redmond, washington, and strong markets for services in Asia.

InCentIvesThe Government of British Columbia’s New Media Tax Credit is a 30 per cent non-refundable income tax credit for venture capital corporations investing in eligible digital media businesses.

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BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » DIGITAL MEDIA JUNE 2008


Early-stage ventures are also eligible for support from the B.C. government’s $90 million B.C. renaissance Capital Fund.

The B.C. government also offers a 25 per cent refundable tax credit for Canadian or international film and television production companies that incur eligible labour costs in B.C. labour costs for digital animation and visual effects receive a 15 per cent credit. recipient corporations do not have to be Canadian-owned, or have an interest in the copyright. Enhanced credits are available for B.C.-owned and controlled companies.

resourCe organIzatIons

>B.C. Filmwww.bcfilm.bc.caNon-profit that administers B.C. film credits and provides support for the development and marketing of film, TV and digital media products from B.C.

>B.C. Innovation Councilwww.bcic.caCrown Agency that fosters innovation and commercialization, in partnership with government, industry and academia.

>B.C. Ministry of Economic Developmentwww.investbc.cawww.equitycapital.gov.bc.caprovincial government department that promotes commerce and investment in B.C. and administers B.C.’s venture capital programs.

>B.C. Technology Industry Association (BCTIA)www.bctia.orgNon-profit organization that supports the growth of B.C.’s technology industry through a variety of programs and initiatives.

>Centre for Digital Media at Great Northern Way Campuswww.gnwc.ca/mdmpartnership between four institutions: British Columbia institute of Technology, Emily Carr institute of Art + Design, Simon Fraser University and the University of British Columbia. The Centre offers an innovative, professional Masters of Digital Media degree recognized and accredited by each of the participating institutions.

>International Game Developers Association – Vancouverwww.igda.org/vancouverlocal association of video game developers, affiliated with the international video game industry association.

>Intersections Digital Studios Emily Carr Institute of Art + Designwww.eciad.ca/research/idsNew $5 million research facility and studio where students and professionals collaborate on interdisciplinary projects.

>Mobile Musewww.mobilemuse.calocal network of small and large companies, industry associations, community organizations and academic institutions engaged in the development of mobile media.

>New Media BCwww.newmediabc.comVancouver-based digital media industry association.

>SIGGRAPH International, Vancouver Chapterwww.siggraph.caVancouver Chapter of the Special interest Group for Computer Graphics of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM). SiGGrApH’s 2011 conference will be held in Vancouver, its first conference outside the U.S. over 24,000 attendees from around the world are expected.

>Simon Fraser University School for Interactive Arts and Technologywww.siat.sfu.caSchool offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in digital media; it also conducts interdisciplinary research that draws on science, art and design.

>Telefilm Canadawww.telefilm.gc.caCanadian government cultural agency with a Vancouver office that provides the film, TV and digital media industries with financial, strategic and distribution support for products that reflect Canadian society.

>University of British Columbia Media Graphics and Interdisciplinary Centrewww.magic.ubc.caresearch laboratory that conducts research on the interaction of people with digital media.

>Vancouver Film Schoolwww.vfs.comprivate school offering one-year vocational programs in animation, digital design, game design, sound design and writing.

>Vancouver Institute of Media Arts (VanArts)www.vanarts.cominstitute offering industry-based diploma and certificate programs in animation, gaming and visual effects.

>VIDFESTwww.vidfest.comVancouver’s international digital media festival and Canada’s largest digital media event.


BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » EDUCATION JUNE 2008


educationVancouver’s high-quality educational institutions, cultural diversity and enviable lifestyle have earned it an outstanding reputation in international education, at the post-secondary and K-12 levels, as well as in English language studies.Industry snapshotVancouver and British Columbia are recognized nationally and internationally for excellence in education, attracting about 150,000 international students annually, the majority of them studying in the Vancouver region.

Canada ranks first in G7 countries in high school science scores, and second in educational attainment and expenditures.

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is regularly ranked among the top 50 universities worldwide in various international publications – in 2007 UBC placed 33rd in the Times Higher Education rankings and 36th in rankings by Shanghai’s Jiao Tong University.

Maclean’s magazine’s latest ranking of Canadian universities rated Simon Fraser University (SFU) top among mid-sized institutions for medical and science grants, faculty awards, and social science and humanities grants. The university placed second for overall academic excellence.

British Columbia was the first province in Canada to accept international students in the public K-12 system (10,000 K-12 international students in 2006-2007).

In addition to two major research universities, Greater Vancouver has an array of outstanding educational institutions, including the second-largest K-12 school system in B.C., the province’s only polytechnic institute, about 20 public and private colleges and institutes offering post-secondary qualifications, and a cohort of private language and career training schools catering to the immigrant population. About eight per cent of the workforce is in the education sector; teachers and professors make up the third-largest occupation group in the city.

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Education in Vancouver is truly international. More than 40 per cent of the population has a mother tongue other than English or French, and public school students speak 57 unique languages.

CompetItIve advantagesAbout one-third of all international students in Canada choose to study in B.C. International students come to Vancouver and B.C. for a superior education that is affordable relative to competing jurisdictions. In addition, the region’s quality of life is well known internationally, as is the city’s idyllic setting. The living environment is safe and inclusive, with quality health care, social services and public education.

Relative to the U.S., immigration processes are easy to navigate for students, and recent changes in regulations have made it easier for international students to work in B.C. following completion of their studies.

Educational institutions have leveraged Vancouver’s diversity to build strong multicultural and international linkages and programs. These linkages benefit local businesses by strengthening their access to foreign language skills, foreign business practices, overseas talent and potential business partners.

British Columbia’s public K-12 schools have been accepting international students for 25 years and offer an array of programs – high school matriculation; single-semester; short-term, intensive English courses; and special programs for elementary-level international students.

Both UBC and SFU have extensive linkages to peer universities in Asia Pacific countries and elsewhere.

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Vancouver’s B.C. Institute of Technology is home to the first Confucius Institute in Canada - a partnership with China to facilitate knowledge of Chinese culture and language in British Columbia.

More than 30 private language schools operate in Vancouver, many of them in the downtown core, focusing primarily on English as a second language instruction.

Fifty-eight private vocational and career-training institutions operate in Vancouver, with close to 50,000 enrollments.

British Columbia’s colleges and universities operate a variety of programs overseas, generating $2 billion in revenue annually.

The University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University offer world-class expertise and facilities for applied research and discovery:

UBC became the first Canadian university to generate more than $100 million in cumulative licensing revenue from the sale of technologies and spin-off companies.

SFU has created more than 70 spin-off companies.

Four post-secondary institutions in Vancouver have come together to create Great Northern Way Campus, a collaborative partnership with industry to develop, test and deploy new media and sustainability-related technologies.

oVER 40% oF THE PoPULATIoN HAS A MoTHER ToNGUE oTHER THAN ENGLISH oR FRENCH, ANd PUBLIC SCHooL STUdENTS SPEAK 57 UNIqUE LANGUAGES

InCentIvesThe Government of British Columbia is the biggest investor in education in the province and is spending an additional $1 billion annually to add 25,000 new seats at colleges and universities by 2010 – about 5,000 of them in Vancouver. An additional 650 graduate student places are also being funded.

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> B.C. Career Colleges Associationwww.bccca.comorganization of private sector post-secondary education suppliers.

> B.C. Centre for International Educationwww.bccie.bc.caNon-profit that promotes international education.

> B.C. College Presidentswww.choosebccolleges.caorganization to advance the interests of B.C. colleges.

> B.C. Electronic Library Networkwww.eln.bc.caA partnership of the B.C. government and post-secondary libraries. Based at SFU, it facilitates access to information for learners and educators throughout B.C.

> B.C. Institute of Technologywww.bcit.ca Full-time students 16,000; part-time 32,000. Western Canada’s premier polytechnic institute, offering degree and certificate programs in a variety of fields, including transportation, digital media, construction, health sciences and natural resources.

> Canadian Association of Private Language Schoolswww.capls.comVancouver-based national association of private English and French language schools, representing more than 100 schools across Canada.

> Centre for Policy Studies in Higher Education and Trainingwww.chet.educ.ubc.caCentre for policy research on educational issues.

> Emily Carr Institute of Art + Designwww.eciad.caStudents: 1,600. one of B.C.’s oldest colleges and one of Canada’s leading arts institutions, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in visual arts, media arts and design.

> Government of British Columbia

B.C. ministry of advanced educationwww.learnlivebc.ca

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B.C. ministry of education (K-12)www.gov.bc.ca/bced

B.C. ministry of economic developmentwww.investbc.ca

> International Public School Education Association of B.C.www.studyinbc.orgAssociation of public school districts in B.C. that accept international students.

> Langara Collegewww.langara.bc.caFull and part time students: 23,000. College offering Bachelor’s, Associate, diploma and Certificates studies in creative and applied arts, health and human services, liberal arts and languages, management and business, science and technology, and social and cultural studies.

> Learning Cities Initiative Canadian Council on Learningwww.ccl-cca.caA joint initiative of the City of Vancouver and the Canadian Council on Learning to develop a community lifelong learning strategy for the city.

> Private Career Training Institutions Agency of British Columbiawww.pctia.bc.caAgency authorized by the B.C. Ministry of Education to oversee private career-training institutions.

> Simon Fraser University (SFU)www.sfu.caFull time students: 24,000. A public research university with three campuses in Greater Vancouver, including one in the city of Vancouver’s business core.

> University of British Columbia (UBC)www.ubc.ca Full-time students: 44,000. A major economic engine in Vancouver, generating nearly 40,000 jobs and making an estimated local economic impact of $6.3 billion.

> University Presidents Council of B.C.www.tupc.bc.caorganization to provide leadership in the development of the public university system.

> Vancouver Community College www.vcc.ca Full time students: 25,000. The college offers general and specialized education in key industry professions, including health, technology and business, as well as English as a second language and life-long learning.

> Vancouver School Board (Public K-12 School District) www.vsb.bc.ca Full time students: 56,000; continuing education 44,000. The second largest public school system in B.C., operating 91 elementary schools, 18 secondary schools and seven adult education centres.


BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » fIlM & TElEVISION pRODUCTION JUNE 2008

The complete VEDC Business & Investment Guide is available in pDf format on our website at: www.vancouvereconomic.com. To request the guide in book format ($25) please phone 1-866-632-9668.

FILM & TELEVISION PRODUCTIONVancouver is the core of the third-largest foreign film and production centre in North America, known worldwide as Hollywood North.Industry snapshotBritish Columbia accounts for about 60 per cent of all foreign location film and TV production in Canada. Film makers have been attracted by B.C.’s natural beauty since the late 19th century. Major studios were developed in Greater Vancouver in the late 1980s, and the Government of British Columbia started providing assistance to the industry in 1998. Total direct and indirect full time equivalent jobs generated by film and TV production in B.C. are estimated at over 36,000.

Total spending on film and TV production in B.C. amounted to nearly $950 million in 2007. The industry has a strong balance of international and domestic production activity. Domestic productions have increased significantly in recent years and now account for 40 per cent of total local spending.

The Vancouver region is home to most of B.C.’s production and post-production activities, with sufficient capacity to support the biggest Hollywood movies in casting, set-building, location filming, and audio and special effects. Vancouver is home to some of North America’s most expansive and sophisticated studio spaces and facilities, including over 200,000 square feet of warehouse conversion stages, and numerous FX and sound stages.

CompetItIve advantagesVancouver’s main advantage is the expertise and talent it has developed during the last two decades. It is now capable of handling every aspect of production for forty projects simultaneously. The resources available in Vancouver have been created by a high level of activity, combined with a world-class educational infrastructure that offers dozens of programs on all aspects of film and

TV development, production, marketing and distribution. An experienced and committed local crew base of 30,000 delivers services at the level of their counterparts in Hollywood.

Vancouver has the benefit of being near Hollywood and sharing the same time zone. It also offers a highly versatile physical setting – the New York Times once called it “the city that can substitute for all of America.”

In addition to excellent studio facilities, Vancouver has very strong capabilities in post-production. It is home to a number of companies that have created state-of-the-art, award winning visual effects. Vancouver’s strong digital media sector is a major asset that will be increasingly important as film/TV and digital media continue to blend.

Support and collaboration among a network of government agencies, industry associations, festivals and awards, and professional organizations is a key element in the industry’s success.

InCentIvesThe B.C. government offers a 25 per cent refundable tax credit for Canadian or international film and television production companies that incur eligible labour costs in B.C. Labour costs for digital animation and visual effects receive a 15 per cent credit. Recipient corporations do not have to be Canadian-owned, or have an interest in the copyright. Enhanced credits are available for B.C.-owned and controlled companies.

The Government of Canada provides tax credits for qualified foreign film and video production, amounting to 16 per cent of Canadian labour costs, through the Canadian Audio-Visual Certification Office.

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BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » fIlM & TElEVISION pRODUCTION JUNE 2008


The International Financial Centre offers refunds of provincial corporate income taxes to firms permanently established in B.C. that pursue qualified international financial activities such as film distribution.


> B.C. Arts Councilwww.bcartscouncil.caprovincial government agency that supports arts and culture and makes awards.

> B.C. Film Commissionwww.bcfilmcommission.comprovincial government agency that promotes the interests of B.C.’s film and production industry worldwide.

> B.C. Filmwww.bcfilm.bc.caNon-profit that administers B.C. film credits and provides support for the development and marketing of film, TV and digital media products from B.C.

> B.C. Institute of Film Professionalswww.bcifp.comNon-profit that brings together film professionals from the private, public and educational sectors, focusing on training and human resource issues.

> B.C. Ministry of Economic Developmentwww.investbc.cawww.equitycapital.gov.bc.caprovincial government department that promotes commerce and investment in B.C. and administers B.C.’s venture capital programs.

> Canadian Audio-Visual Certification Officewww.pch.gc.ca/cavcoOffice in the Canadian Government Department of Canadian Heritage that provides support for film/TV production.

> Cineworkswww.cineworks.caproduction cooperative that provides members with equipment, information and support to make independent movies.

> City of Vancouver Film [email protected] department that assists with permits and information regarding filming in the City of Vancouver.

> FTXWestDigital Entertainment Exhibition and Conferencewww.ftxwest.comAnnual exhibition and conference focusing on the latest technology in film, TV and digital media.

> International Financial Centrewww.ifcbc.comNon-profit society that promotes B.C. as a centre for international financial activity.

> Motion Picture Production Association of B.C.www.mppia.comIndustry association for film, television and commercial production.

> New Media BCwww.newmediabc.comIndustry association for digital media companies.

> SIGGRAPH International, Vancouver Chapterwww.siggraph.caVancouver Chapter of the Special Interest Group for Computer Graphics of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM). SIGGRApH’s 2011 conference will be held in Vancouver, its first conference outside the U.S. Over 24,000 attendees from around the world are expected.

> Telefilm Canadawww.telefilm.gc.caCanadian government cultural agency with a Vancouver office that provides the film, TV and digital media industries with financial, strategic and distribution support for products that reflect Canadian society.

> Vancouver Asian Film Festivalwww.vaff.orgEvent for Asian film makers to showcase their work to Asian and non-Asian audiences in North America.

> Vancouver International Film Festivalwww.viff.orgHighly successful annual film festival that attracts 150,000 people to about 600 screenings of films from 50 countries each year.


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BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » fINaNCIal SERVICES JUNE 2008

The complete VEDC Business & Investment Guide is available in PDf format on our website at: www.vancouvereconomic.com. To request the guide in book format ($25) please phone 1-866-632-9668.

financial servicesVancouver has a diversified economy, growing business ties with Asia, and increasingly favourable tax policies ideal for financial services firms to thrive.Industry snapshotFinancial services companies employ more than 55,000 people in Greater Vancouver. This workforce is highly educated and loyal, with relatively low turnover due to Vancouver’s quality of life. The industry generates one new job in other sectors for every new job in the financial services sector.

Financial services started as a critical business support for mining and forestry. Now, local financial services companies operate in global markets, leveraging and facilitating Vancouver’s position as a global commercial gateway. Shared language and customs with the United States are critical assets, as are strong cultural connections to emerging Asian economies.

Vancouver performs particularly well in four financial services sub-sectors: banking, credit unions, international financial transactions, and venture capital investment.

All five of Canada’s largest banks have significant operations in Vancouver. Several international banks also have offices in the city, including the Canadian headquarters of London’s HSBC - one of the world’s largest banks.

Cooperative banking institutions have carved out a strong niche in the community, doubling assets between 1996 and 2006 and accounting for 20 per cent of the local banking market. The credit union system in B.C. is the largest among the English-speaking Canadian provinces.

Through the Province’s International Financial Activities Act (IFAA), Vancouver is developing an important niche in international treasury and financial functions, including factoring, import/export financing, foreign exchange, and back-office support. The IFAA allows a corporation carrying out qualified international financial activities from a base in B.C. to get a refund of up to 100 per cent of provincial corporate income taxes.

Venture capital investment in B.C., which was more than $300 million in 2007, accounts for up to 20 per cent of venture capital investment in Canada. Vancouver’s venture capital investments focus on information technology, clean technology, life sciences and digital media.

CompetItIve advantagesA robust, diversified economy and a very favourable tax environment make Vancouver’s financial services sector highly competitive. Activities in banking, credit unions, international financial transactions, and venture capital investment are exceptionally competitive.

The B.C. government has dramatically improved the climate for investment and financial services activities. The corporate capital tax is being phased out over three years, starting in April 2008. Business tax rates in B.C. are among the lowest in North America, thanks to a one per cent reduction in the provincial corporate tax rate to 11 per cent. The rate will drop to ten per cent by 2012.

Strong credit unions increase the competitiveness of the local financial services market and provide an important alternative source of financing for small businesses. Credit unions thrive by offering unique products and services that differentiate them from traditional banks and cater to local preferences. VanCity Credit Union, for example, has created a suite of investment products that appeal to environmentally-conscious Vancouverites.

For international financial transactions that qualify under the International Financial Activities Act (IFAA), B.C. offers an effective tax rate lower than in the provinces of Quebec, Alberta and Ontario, and lower than in most states in the U.S.

Venture capital deals in Vancouver rank among the largest in North America. Life sciences and clean technology

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spin offs from strong university labs have succeeded in Vancouver because of strong venture capital activity, as have industry spin offs in information technology and new media. Venture capital investors in Vancouver and B.C. are expanding syndication activities with the U.S. and other international partners. day4 Energy, a solar technology developer, completed a $100 million IPO in 2007, one of the largest advanced-energy venture capital deals in North America that year.

InCentIves

research & developmentThe Scientific research and Experimental development (Sr&Ed) program is a federal tax incentive designed to encourage research and development in Canada. Qualifying non-Canadian companies are eligible to receive tax credits of 20 per cent of qualified expenditures. Canadian companies receive enhanced credits. The B.C. government adds a ten per cent tax credit for qualifying Canadian and non-Canadian corporations that conduct r&d in British Columbia.

The National research Council of Canada’s Industrial research Assistance Program (NrC-IrAP) provides a range of technical and business-oriented advisory services to support growth-oriented Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises. This can include non-repayable contributions to Canadian firms interested in research to develop their services, products and processes. The program has contributed more than $570 million to more than 30,000 projects. In 2007-2008, approximately $13 million was available to firms in B.C.

International Financial transactionsThe International Financial Activity Act (IFAA) allows corporations carrying out specified international financial activities in B.C., where one part of the transaction is with a non resident, to recoup up to 100 per cent of provincial corporate income taxes.

There is also a 75 per cent reduction in B.C. personal taxes for five years for registered IFA specialists recruited from abroad.

venture CapitalThe B.C. government offers 4 different tax credit programs to B.C. residents and taxable corporations.

A refundable tax credit of 30 per cent of investments, up to a maximum of $60,000 in credits per year, for investments in small B.C. businesses.

Tax credits of 30 per cent to investors who provide venture capital to small businesses conducting r&d on proprietary technologies and developing interactive

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digital media products. Investment must be made through a venture capital corporation or directly to an eligible business corporation. Early-stage ventures are also eligible for support from the $90 million B.C. renaissance Capital Fund.

The Employee Share Ownership Program (ESOP) provides B.C. employees of Canadian companies with a 20 per cent tax credit (maximum $2000 per annum) for investments in their employers’ businesses.

A combined federal and provincial tax credit allows investors to receive up to 30 per cent back on investments in labour-sponsored investment funds.


> Angel Forumwww.angelforum.orgThe oldest and largest angel group in Canada. It introduces emerging companies to private equity investors, with more than $26 million invested in companies since 1997.

> Association for Corporate Growthhttp://chapters.acg.org/vancouverOne of two Canadian chapters of the worldwide ACG organization that offers professional development opportunities for professionals involved in corporate growth, corporate development, and mergers and acquisitions.

> British Columbia Business Councilwww.bcbc.comAssociation of over 200 businesses in B.C., including firms in the financial services sector, working to enhance the province’s competitive position and business environment.

> B.C. Ministry of Economic Developmentwww.investbc.cawww.equitycapital.gov.bc.caProvincial government department that promotes commerce and investment in B.C. and administers B.C.’s venture capital programs.

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> British Columbia Technology Industry Associationwww.bctia.orgNon-profit organization that supports the growth of B.C.’s technology industry through a variety of events and programs.

> Canada Revenue Agencywww.cra.gc.cawww.cra-arc.gc.ca/sredCanadian government department that administers the Sr&Ed program; it has an office in Vancouver.

> Canadian Financing Forumwww.financingforum.comVancouver-based organization that hosts one of the largest venture capital gatherings in Western Canada, matching North American corporate and venture capital investors with technology entrepreneurs.

> Credit Union Centralwww.cucbc.comCentral banking facility and trade association for B.C.’s 48 independent credit unions, managing a liquidity pool of $3.8 billion.

> International Financial Centrewww.ifcbc.comNon-profit society that promotes B.C. as a centre for international financial activity.

> Mortgage Brokers Associationwww.mbabc.caIndustry association representing mortgage brokers, major financial institutions, mortgage insurers, title insurers, lawyers and notaries, credit reporting agencies, appraisers and other companies related to the mortgage industry.

> New Ventures BCwww.newventuresbc.comProvince-wide competition of technology business ideas, designed to help early-stage entrepreneurs develop the business skills needed to bring new technologies to market.

> National Research Council of Canadawww.nrc-cnrc.gc.caCanadian government agency that provides support to small and medium-sized businesses. It has an office in Vancouver.

> Ready to Rocketwww.readytorocket.comCompany that profiles emerging technology companies with the greatest potential for future revenue growth, investment and market breakthroughs.

> Simon Fraser University

global asset and Wealth management programhttp://business.sfu.ca/gawmmaster’s in Business Administration for financial services professionals, offering practical experience in managing a student-run investment portfolio of $10 million.

university Industry Liaison officewww.sfu.ca/uiloUniversity office that facilitates the creation of university-industry research, the development of partnerships, and the commercialization of research.

> Thompson Financialwww.canadavc.comComprehensive database of information and data on private equity transactions in Canada.

BUSINESS TAx rATES IN BrITISH COLUmBIA ArE AmONG THE LOWEST IN NOrTH AmErICA> TSX Venture Exchangewww.tsx.comPublic stock exchange for emerging Canadian businesses, providing entrepreneurs with access to capital and offering investors a regulated venture investment market. maintains an office in Vancouver.

> University of British Columbia

sauder school of Businesswww.sauder.ubc.caBusiness school offering specialization in finance at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

university Industry Liaison officewww.uilo.ubc.caUniversity office responsible for commercializing university research, serving as a link between university researchers, entrepreneurs and businesses.

> Vancouver Angel Network for Technology Enterpriseswww.wutif.ca/angelsNetworking organization that introduces early stage investors and mentors to promising technology ventures.

> Vancouver Enterprise Forumwww.vef.orgForum to advance technology entrepreneurship through monthly education and networking meetings.


BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » INfORMaTION & COMMUNICaTIONS TEChNOlOGY [ICT] JUNE 2008


information & communications technology [ict]access to top-notch talent, world-class r&D and business-cost savings make Vancouver an ideal environment for technology businesses.Industry snapshotgreater Vancouver’s information and communications technology (ict) sector represents about 70 per cent of the ict industry in British columbia, which comprises more than 6,000 companies and more than 46,000 employees. the sector is predominantly service-oriented, and focused on computer systems design and related services, engineering services, software publishing, wired telecommunications, and computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing.

most companies are small service providers, but Vancouver is also a location of choice for major ict companies:

global firms: microsoft corporation, intel, iBm, Broadcom, 3m, eastman Kodak company, harmon international industries, sophos, oracle, Business objects, nokia, honeywell international raytheon and seiko epson.

local firms: a number of large anchor companies incorporated in Vancouver have provided a solid foundation for growth, including mDa, sierra systems, telus, Pmc-sierra and sierra Wireless.

Between 1997 and 2004, B.c. had the highest growth in canada in the following ict categories: employment, r&D spending, and software and computer services revenue.

Wireless emPloys 6,000 PeoPle in B.c. anD most Wireless comPanies are cash-floW PositiVeWireless technology businesses constitute a strong ict sub-sector. the province now has some 500 wireless

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companies - half in wireless technology and half in wireless-related businesses. Wireless employs 6,000 people in B.c. and most wireless companies are cash-flow positive. industry revenue grew over 50 per cent between 2004 and 2007, and tops $1 billion.

CompetItIve advantagesVancouver’s success in ict has been enabled by strong research infrastructure, an established network of seasoned professionals, ceos and angel investors, and close ties to the u.s. and asia.

Vancouver’s infrastructure is bolstered by proven ict research and development capacity, including facilities, specialized equipment, and a large cadre of researchers and scientists. in addition to two world-class universities that spin off innovative companies, the Vancouver region is home to a variety of ict research and development facilities, including Westgrid, a $50 million project linking supercomputers across canada; the iBm Pacific Development centre, which develops custom software solutions; and a nokia r&D centre that develops internet-friendly mobile devices. nanotechnology research to advance ict is growing rapidly at Vancouver’s two research universities.

a recent university of British columbia study found that technology companies in B.c. deliver the best return on r&D investment in north america.

the growing pool of skilled ict workers in B.c. includes 67,000 engineers, it professionals and production workers. Welcoming immigration policies contribute to the quality of Vancouver’s ict workforce, a significant factor in microsoft’s recent decision to open a software development operation in greater Vancouver. family and business ties to asia, and foreign students at local educational institutions, are additional sources of talent.

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Direct access to the united states market is a major advantage for ict in Vancouver, while links to emerging markets in china and india are critical to the future strength of the sector. these links are facilitated by Vancouver’s award-winning international airport, which allows ict firms to quickly move people and products to key destinations.

InCentIves

research & developmentthe national research council of canada’s industrial research assistance Program (nrc-iraP) provides a range of technical and business-oriented advisory services to support growth-oriented canadian small and medium-sized enterprises. this can include non-repayable contributions to canadian firms interested in research to develop their services, products and processes. the program has contributed more than $570 million to more than 30,000 projects. in 2007-2008, approximately $13 million was available to firms in B.c.

the scientific research and experimental Development (sr&eD) program is a federal tax incentive designed to encourage research and development in canada. Qualifying non-canadian companies are eligible to receive tax credits of 20 per cent of qualified expenditures. canadian companies receive enhanced credits. the B.c. government adds a ten per cent tax credit for qualifying canadian and non-canadian corporations that conduct r&D in British columbia.

venture CapitalBritish columbia offers tax credits of 30 per cent to qualified resident investors who provide venture capital to small businesses conducting r&D on proprietary technologies and developing interactive digital media products. investment must be made through a venture capital corporation or directly to an eligible business corporation. early-stage ventures are also eligible for support from the B.c. government’s $90 million B.c. renaissance capital fund.


> AceTechwww.acetech.orgforum of ceo’s of technology and life science companies.

>B.C. Innovation Councilwww.bcic.cacrown agency that fosters innovation and commercialization, in partnership with government, industry and academia. the council provides research funding, scholarships and other resources.

>B.C. Ministry of Economic Developmentwww.investbc.cawww.equitycapital.gov.bc.ca

Provincial government department that promotes commerce and investment in B.c. and administers B.c.’s venture capital programs.

>B.C.Netwww.bc.netconsortium of post-secondary institutions in B.c. providing high-speed internet capacity for advanced research.

>B.C. Technology Industry Associationwww.bctia.orgnon-profit organization that supports the growth of B.c.’s technology industry through a variety of programs and initiatives.

>Canada Revenue Agencywww.cra.gc.ca www.cra-arc.gc.ca/sredcanadian government department that administers the sr&eD program; it has an office in Vancouver.

>Mobile Musewww.mobilemuse.caan innovation network of community-based cultural, media and technology champions.

>National Research Council of Canadawww.nrc-cnrc.gc.cacanadian government agency that provides support to small and medium-sized businesses. it has an office in Vancouver.

>Vancouver Enterprise Forumwww.vef.orgnon-profit society that advances technology entrepreneurship through educational and networking forums.

>Wavefrontwww.wavefrontac.comcommercialization bridge between the wireless developer community and mobile operators, government and large enterprises deploying wireless products and services.

>WIN B.C.www.winbc.orgassociation representing the wireless industry.

>Wired Woman Society – Vancouver Chapterwww.wiredwoman.comnon-profit providing education, mentorship and networking opportunities for women in technology careers.

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researCh LInks

>B.C. Institute of Technologyinternet engineering lab www.bcit.ca/appliedresearch/tc/facilities/iel

>Simon Fraser University

Centre for scientific Computingwww.csc.sfu.ca

Compound semiconductor Laboratorywww.css.sfu.ca/sites/csdl

graphics usability and visualization Labhttp://gruvi.cs.sfu.ca

pacific Centre for advanced materials & related technologywww.sfu.ca/physics/pCamm/facility.html

polyLab - sun technology and research excellence Centre for 21st Century network Computinghttp://polylab.sfu.ca

>University of British Columbia:

advanced materials and process engineering Laboratorywww.ampel.ubc.ca

Institute for Computing, Information & Cognitive systemswww.icics.ubc.ca

media and graphics Interdisciplinary Centrewww.magic.ubc.ca

software practices Labwww.cs.ubc.ca/labs/spl

system on a Chip Labhttp://soc.ece.ubc.ca


BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » lIfE SCIENCES JUNE 2008


life sciencesVancouver is the core of one of the fastest growing life sciences clusters in north America, with particular strength in biotechnology.Industry snapshotThe life sciences industry in British columbia includes about 100 biopharmaceutical companies, 60 medical device manufacturing and distribution companies, and 30 bio products companies. Biopharmaceutical companies account for about 2,200 of the total employment of 2,700. Biopharmaceuticals generate roughly $800 million per year in revenues. Greater Vancouver is home to about 70 per cent of the B.c. life sciences industry and has a strong complement of established and next generation firms, including two of canada’s largest and most successful life science companies: QlT and Angiotech Pharmaceuticals.

While most life sciences companies are small, they have become very successful through strategic partnerships with major international firms. for example, neuromed has a $500 million partnership with Merck to develop pain management products. World renowned research is being conducted in four life sciences areas: oncology, infectious diseases, neuroscience and regenerative medicine.

Oncology research is based on a unique province-wide patient management system and registry of information, as well as two major research organizations: the B.c. cancer Agency and the Prostate centre.

British columbia is home to several pan-canada and international infectious diseases research networks, including ones focusing on HiV, sARs and prions. The HiV/AiDs centre of excellence resides at Providence Health care/st. Paul’s Hospital in downtown Vancouver. led by internationally acclaimed researcher and President-elect of the international AiDs society Dr. Julio Montaner, the centre serves all of British columbia.

neuroscience research is anchored by more than 340 senior researchers, more than 40 endowed university research chairs, and two major multidisciplinary research centres: the Brain Research centre and the international collaboration on Repair Discoveries.

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Researchers in regenerative medicine have more than 140 research agreements with bioscience companies, including eight of the top ten pharmaceutical companies.

CompetItIve advantagesVancouver’s competitive advantage in life sciences is based on a talented workforce, government investment, and high quality university R&D and education programs.

Vancouver draws top-notch, international life sciences talent because of flexible immigration policies, its outstanding quality of life and strong R&D infrastructure. A fast-track immigration process expedites entry of highly-skilled workers into their fields of expertise.

Vancouver’s life sciences sector has flourished because of B.c. government investments in R&D of more than $1.6 billion since 2001. The $90 million B.c. Renaissance capital fund provides additional funding for early stage ventures in biotechnology and other high-technology sectors. The Government of canada is providing $60 million in funding for four new centres of excellence in commercialization and research in B.c. – three in life sciences, and the fourth in an area that includes some life science-related applications.

The life sciences sector benefits from its West coast location, which puts it in easy reach of life sciences collaborators and sources of venture capital in Washington state and california. Vancouver is home to the prestigious annual Bio Partnering north America conference, which attracted more than 400 companies from 26 countries in 2008.

in 2005, The scientist magazine ranked the University of British columbia (UBc) first in canada, and ninth in north America, for producing high-quality patentable research.

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in 2006, the Milken institute ranked UBc eighth in north America for technology transfer and commercialization. The university has spun-off more than 100 life sciences companies, creating more than 2,500 jobs and raising more than $2 billion in private investments. simon fraser University (sfU) has generated an additional 70 spin-offs. A biotechnology undergraduate degree is offered jointly by the British columbia institute of Technology (BciT) and UBc, while sfU’s Masters of Technology MBA offers a specialization in biotechnology.

InCentIves

research & developmentThe scientific Research and experimental Development (sR&eD) program is a federal tax incentive designed to encourage research and development in canada. Qualifying non-canadian companies are eligible to receive tax credits of 20 per cent of qualified expenditures. canadian companies receive enhanced credits. The B.c. government adds a ten per cent tax credit for qualifying canadian and non-canadian corporations that conduct R&D in British columbia.

The national science & engineering Research council of canada, one of three canadian granting councils, has invested more than $6 billion over the last ten years in basic research, training the next generation of scientists, and university-industry partnerships. This investment has directly supported some 23,000 university students and postdoctoral fellows; funded more than 11,000 university professors every year; and helped more than 1,300 canadian companies to invest in university research and training.

The national Research council of canada’s industrial Research Assistance Program (nRc-iRAP) provides a range of technical and business-oriented advisory services to support growth-oriented canadian small and medium-sized enterprises. This can include non-repayable contributions to canadian firms interested in research to develop their services, products and processes. The program has contributed more than $570 million to more than 30,000 projects. in 2007-2008, approximately $13 million was available to firms in B.c.

venture CapitalBritish columbia offers tax credits of 30 per cent to qualified resident investors who provide venture capital to small businesses conducting R&D on proprietary technologies. investment must be made through a venture capital corporation or directly to an eligible business corporation. early-stage ventures are also eligible for support from the B.c. government’s $90 million B.c. Renaissance capital fund.

in 2005, THe scienTisT MAGAzine RAnkeD UBc fiRsT in cAnADA fOR PRODUcinG HiGH-QUAliTy PATenTABle ReseARcHotherB.c.’s international financial Activity Act (ifAA) allows incorporated canadian companies with permanent establishments in B.c. a refund of income tax paid on international income from commercialization of certain life sciences patents. The maximum refund is the lesser of $8 million or 75 per cent of corporate income tax payable.


> AceTechwww.acetech.orgA forum for life science and technology company ceOs.

> B.C. Innovation Councilwww.bcic.cacrown Agency that fosters innovation and commercialization, in partnership with government, industry and academia. The council provides research funding, scholarships and other resources.

> B.C. Ministry of Economic Developmentwww.investbc.cawww.equitycapital.gov.bc.caProvincial government department that promotes commerce and investment in B.c. and administers B.c.’s venture capital programs.

> B.C. Nanotechnology Alliance www.nanotechbc.caAlliance of academic, government and industry partners supporting development of nanotechnology.

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> B.C. Technology Industry Association (BCTIA)www.bctia.orgnon-profit organization that supports the growth of B.c.’s technology industries through a variety of programs and initiatives.

> Canada Revenue Agencywww.cra.gc.cawww.cra-arc.gc.ca/sredcanadian government department that administers the sR&eD program; it has an office in Vancouver.

> Discovery Parkswww.discoveryparks.comDeveloper of specialized research facilities, especially for start-up and post-secondary spin-off companies.

> International Financial Centrewww.ifcbc.comnon-profit society that promotes B.c. as a centre for international financial activity.

> LifeSciences B.C.www.lifesciencesbc.caindustry association for the biotechnology industry.

> National Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)www.nserc.cacanadian granting council that invests in post-secondary students, post-doctoral fellows, basic research and university-industry research projects. it has an office in Vancouver.

> National Research Council of Canadawww.nrc-cnrc.gc.cacanadian government agency that provides support to small- and medium-sized businesses. it has an office in Vancouver.

> Vancouver Bioinformatics Users Group (VanBUG)www.vanbug.orgAssociation of researchers, professionals and students involved in bioinformatics.

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> B.C. Cancer Research Centrewww.bccrc.caResearch arm of the B.c. cancer foundation.

> B.C. Institute of Technologywww.tc.bcit.ca/emerging/biotechBiotechnology program of B.c.’s polytechnic institute, including canada’s first industry-oriented bioinformatics training facility.

> Centre for Drug Research and Development www.cdrd.canon-profit that works with academic researchers, health organizations and private companies to help commercialize drug discoveries.

> Child & Family Research Institutewww.bcricwh.bc.cainstitute that researches children’s and women’s health issues.

> Genome B.C.www.genomebc.caResearch organization that brings together governments, universities and private sector partners in major research projects.

> International Collaboration on Repair Discoverieswww.icord.orgCollaborative research and training organization focusing on spinal cord injury, and bringing together more than 300 researchers from academia and non-profits.

> Michael Smith Foundation for Health Researchwww.msfhr.orgB.c. government support agency for health research.

> Prostate Centre at Vancouver General Hospitalwww.prostatelab.orgThe centre consolidates research and clinical expertise at Vancouver General Hospital.

> Simon Fraser University (SFU)

Bioinformaticswww.bioinformatics.sfu.ca

Centre for policy research on science and technologywww.sfu.ca/cprost

mathematics of Information technology and Complex systems (mItCas)www.mitacs.ca

university-Industry Liaison officewww.sfu.ca/uilo

vice president researchwww.sfu.ca/vpresearch


B.C. Centre for excellence in hIv/aIdswww.cfenet.ubc.ca

Biomedical research Centrewww.brc.ubc.ca

Biotechnology Laboratorywww.biotech.ubc.ca

Brain research Centrewww.brain.ubc.ca

Canadian hIv trials networkwww.hivnet.ubc.ca

Centre for molecular medicine and therapeuticswww.cmmt.ubc.ca

Faculty for medicine (research)www.med.ubc.ca/research.htm

prionet Canadawww.prionetcanada.ca

university-Industry Liaison office www.uilo.ubc.ca


BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » MINING JUNE 2008


miningAbundant minerals in B.C.’s mountains, innovative business practices, and public sector investments have made Vancouver a major centre for the global mining industry since the “gold rushes” of the mid-1800s.

Industry snapshotgreater Vancouver is the base of operations for over 800 global mining and mineral firms, including two of the world’s largest mining companies. most mining employment in Vancouver is connected to executive offices and mining support services such as geological research, business administration, finance, management, engineering and environmental consulting.

During the period 1997-2006, mining gross revenue in British Columbia increased almost 50 per cent to $8 billion. more than 1,000 exploration and active mining sites operate around the province; the industry employs 28,000 people and adds $7.4 billion to the economy annually. Sixty per cent of Canadian mining exploration companies are in B.C., responsible for $4.5 billion in equity capital.

CompetItIve advantagesBritish Columbia’s mountains are a rich source of numerous minerals that are exported to markets around the world. Vancouver has been home to a skilled mining workforce for 150 years, and has developed many innovative techniques to find mineral deposits, extract and transport ores in ways least harmful to the environment, and rehabilitate exhausted mine sites.

Vancouver’s world-class port, with close proximity to Asia and excellent rail links to mines, is a top competitive asset. Asia continues to drive global demand for natural resources, but north American markets are also important for B.C. minerals.

Strong geological modelling, financial, management, environmental and trading firms in Vancouver provide mining companies with the sophisticated services required to compete globally. The world’s leading accounting and financial service firms operate mining practices in Vancouver.

Exploration investment in B.C. increased 57 per cent in 2007 to a record high of $416 million. Since 2001, exploration investment has increased 1,300 per cent, signalling a strong future for mining in the province. British Columbia accounts for about 17 per cent of mining exploration in Canada.

Vancouver is a leader in developing new technologies to take costly guesswork out of mining exploration. Vancouver-based gemcom Software international was recognized for outstanding mine modeling and resource planning by mining magazine. The firm provides 3D imaging, mine modeling, data analysis and logistics planning for 1,000 mining companies in 90 countries.

InCentIvesThe B.C. government offers two tax incentive programs to the mining industry:

Refundable 20 per cent tax credit for grassroots exploration of qualified resources.

non-refundable 20 per cent tax credit for individuals investing in flow-through shares that finance qualifying grassroots exploration.The Canadian government provides a 15 per cent complement to the non-refundable flow-though tax credit.


> Association for Mineral Exploration of B.C.www.amebc.caAssociation representing 4,000 prospectors, engineers, entrepreneurs, exploration companies, suppliers, mineral producers and mining associations.

> Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of B.C.www.apeg.bc.caLicensing and regulatory body for B.C.’s 23,000 engineers and geoscientists.

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BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » MINING JUNE 2008


SinCE 2001, mining ExPLoRATion inVESTmEnTS in BRiTiSh CoLUmBiA hAVE inCrEAsEd 1300%

> B.C. Environment industry Association www.bceia.comindustry association comprising engineering and environmental service companies, technology companies, research organizations and environmental law firms.

> B. C. institute of Technologywww.bcit.caVancouver’s polytechnic institute offers a two-year diploma in mining and contracts with mining firms to create customized courses to meet industry training needs.

> B.C. Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum resources Mining and Mineral divisionwww.empr.gov.bc.ca/miningProvincial government department responsible for mining policy, regulation and services.

B.C. geological surveywww.empr.gov.bc.ca/mining/geolsurvoffice providing downloads of historical information such as maps and reports, and access to various information databases.

mapplacewww.mapplace.cainteractive, database and mapping service that allows mining companies to access critical geosciences attribute data.

mineral titles onlinewww.em.gov.bc.ca/subwebs/mtonlineBritish Columbia’s internet-driven database of mineral titles.

> Geoscience BCwww.geosciencebc.comindustry organization that encourages mineral and petroleum exploration investment through applied geosciences, data collection, analyses and technology applications. Projects are conducted in collaboration with industry, academia and government.

> Mining Association of B.C.www.mining.bc.caindustry association representing mining producers and development firms.

> Mining suppliers, Contractors and Consultants Association of B.C.www.mscca.comBusiness association of 200 mining suppliers and service firms.


Institute of mining engineeringhttp://mining.ubc.caThe institute offers degrees in mining engineering, conducts mining research and works with the mining industry to develop innovative technologies and practices to reduce environmental harm.

Centre for environmental research in minerals, metals and materials (Cerm3)www.cerm3.mining.ubc.caThe centre consists of 25 faculty and researchers who seek to mitigate the environmental impact of mining through research in conjunction with mining companies and government agencies.


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BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » pERfORMaNCE appaREl JUNE 2008


performance apparelVancouver’s lifestyle, built around active enjoyment of the surrounding mountains and ocean, creates strong local demand for excellent performance apparel that is internationally renowned.Industry snapshotcreative design, technological innovation, entrepreneurship and environmental sustainability are hallmarks of the small but thriving performance apparel industry. more than three dozen performance apparel businesses operate in greater Vancouver, ranging from small “hand-made” manufacturers to globally-recognized brands with annual sales of more than $100 million. performance apparel businesses specialize in functional and fashionable gear for an array of activities, including biking, diving, gymnastics, hiking, kayaking, running, skiing, swimming and yoga.

Vancouver’s nearby mountains, forests and oceans supply the design inspiration and testing laboratory for performance apparel businesses. The industry is poised to benefit dramatically from the international exposure provided by the Vancouver 2010 olympic and paralympic Winter Games.

CompetItIve advantagesVancouver is one of the most physically active cities in canada. people in British columbia and the U.S. pacific northwest value functional gear that keeps them dry, warm and comfortable during outdoor activity. public and private sector organizations that work year round in the mountains and on the oceans provide a natural market for apparel that performs well under harsh conditions.

performance apparel businesses benefit from Vancouver’s proximity to important U.S. and asian consumer markets. arc’Teryx was the industry leader in climbing gear and harnesses before branching out into high-end apparel and backpacks. Sugoi performance apparel is recognized across europe and north america for cycling, triathlon, cross-country skiing and running. lululemon athletica,

which specializes in yoga apparel, has grown from one store in Vancouver in 2001 to more than 75 in canada, australia and the United States. lija Style, a lifestyle apparel firm, exports about 80 per cent of its products to the United States, a major contributor to the company’s almost 600 per cent growth in revenues between 2001 and 2006.

performance apparel businesses are leveraging long-established apparel expertise and manufacturing capacity in Vancouver, while adding high-tech innovations in materials and construction, unique local designs, and cutting-edge branding and marketing. Ski apparel companies from around the world come to Vancouver and nearby Whistler to check out the latest local fashions.

InCentIvesThe canadian government offers relief on tariffs and import duties to canadian apparel businesses as a result of international free trade agreements. http://portal.apparel.ca/eng/portalInttrade/tradeagreements.cfm

The Scientific research and experimental Development (Sr&eD) program is a federal tax incentive designed to encourage research and development in canada. Qualifying non-canadian companies are eligible to receive tax credits of 20 per cent of qualified expenditures. canadian companies receive enhanced credits. The B.c. government adds a ten per cent tax credit for qualifying canadian and non-canadian corporations that conduct r&D in British columbia.


> B.C. Fashion Weekwww.bcfashionweek.comThis annual gathering exposes apparel firms in Vancouver and B.c. to global opinion leaders in the fashion industry.

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BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » pERfORMaNCE appaREl JUNE 2008


> Blanche MacDonald Centrewww.blanchemacdonald.comcentre providing diploma and certificate programs in fashion merchandising and fashion Design.

> Canada Revenue Agencywww.cra.gc.cawww.cra-arc.gc.ca/sredcanadian government department that administers the Sr&eD program; it has an office in Vancouver.

> Canadian Apparel Federationwww.apparel.canational advocacy association for the canadian apparel industry.

> Emily Carr Institute of Art+Designwww.eciad.caBachelor’s program in design focuses on sustainable design and innovative product design.

> Fashion Highwww.fashionhigh.canon-profit organization that encourages consumers to buy from B.c. fashion companies and promotes sustainable design practices.

> Kwantlen Polytechnic UniversityFashion Design and Technology Programwww.kwantlen.ca/applied-design/fashion.htmlBachelor’s level program that prepares graduates for careers in fashion design, production, marketing and computer technology; the only program of its kind in Western canada.

> Threads Gazettewww.threadsgazette.comonline newsletter that serves as the voice of the B.c. apparel and fashion industries.

> Vancouver Community College Fashion Arts Programhttp://continuinged.vcc.ca/fashionarts/programs.htmDegree and certificate programs in fashion, including design, pattern making, garment construction, and fashion business technology.


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BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » SUSTaINaBIlITY-RElaTED INDUSTRIES JUNE 2008


sustainability-related industriesan environmental ethos drives major public-private investments and r&d, making Vancouver a highly favourable place for sustainability-related industries.Industry snapshotVancouver has a large number of medium and small companies active in sustainability-related industries. Greater Vancouver companies accounted for almost half of deloitte’s “technology Green 15 Companies” in 2007. Many sustainability-related firms are active in export markets, such as bioteQ, which has a unique bacteria-based process to remediate waste water generated by mining activities.

the region has a particularly impressive record in two areas: clean technology and sustainable urban development.

Vancouver is home to 70 per cent of b.C.’s clean technology sector, with more than 800 companies and more than 12,000 employees. Vancouver is especially strong in advanced energy solutions, with roughly 90 alternative energy companies, employing 3,000 people and generating revenues of $750 million. this includes companies working in solar, wind and tidal power; bio-energy; and power technologies.

Vancouver is home to leading innovators in hydrogen, fuel cell and natural gas engines, including ballard Power, Questair technologies and Westport innovations. the hydrogen and fuel cell sector in b.C. is the largest in the world and represents 75 per cent of Canadian fuel cell and hydrogen-based r&d expenditures. b.C. accounts for 70 per cent of Canada’s employment in this sector.

the power electronics sub-sector is one of the most commercially advanced sub-sectors in clean technology, with well over $600 million in annual revenues, and a number of internationally well known firms, such as nxtPhase t&d Corporation, Xantrax technology and alpha technologies. Vancouver’s Powertech labs - a subsidiary

of b.C. Hydro, which supplies 90 per cent of the provinces’s electricity - offers world-leading expertise in grid management. advanced battery and charging systems is another area of strength: b.C. is home to north america’s only manufacturer of cylindrical li-ion rechargeable batteries, and also the world’s only commercial manufacturer of flow batteries.

sustainable urban development, including design and development of certified green buildings, is another industry where Vancouver and b.C. are north american leaders. b.C. was the first province in Canada to adopt the leadership in energy and environmental design rating system (leed©) and has 42 per cent of all leed©-certified buildings in Canada, most of them in Greater Vancouver.

the City of Vancouver has an ambitious program to curb greenhouse gas emissions in its own operations and in the community. even though the city’s population has increased 24 per cent since 1990, and the number of jobs has increased 14 per cent, emissions from City operations have declined five per cent in the same period, while community-wide emissions have risen only five per cent. emissions per capita are about half those of toronto, and about a third of those in nearby cities such as Calgary, seattle and Portland.

tHe HydroGen and Fuel Cell seCtor in britisH ColuMbia is tHe largest in the world

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CompetItIve advantagesVancouver has a sophisticated infrastructure to develop sustainable technologies, including industry and university research labs, testing centers, industry associations and other non-profit organizations. the Vancouver-based organization Globe Foundation hosts a major internationally recognized bi-annual conference on the environmental industry.

british Columbia’s advanced energy sector is poised for continued, rapid expansion. the b.C. government’s energy plan aims to secure 50 per cent of incremental power requirements from clean energy sources. the province has abundant natural resources to generate advanced energy, including tidal and wind power; wood that can be converted to pellets or alternative fuels; large coal deposits that can be used for coal-bed methane; and biomass that can be burned for fuel.

Close business ties with asia offer a strategic advantage as do proximity to u.s. markets, and existing tie-ins to cross-border transmission systems and u.s. energy hubs. the b.C. government is also part of the Western Climate initiative, an alliance of Western u.s. states and Canadian provinces.

Cities like dubai and las VeGas are aPPlyinG sustainable urban PlanninG PraCtiCes from vancouverGovernment is a critical enabler of sustainability, particularly sustainable urban development. in 2007, FastCompany Magazine named Vancouver as a “Green leader,” noting the city’s ecodensity initiative, which makes sustainability the foundation of building construction, transportation infrastructure investments, neighbourhood development and zoning. Greater Vancouver won the 2003 international Gas association worldwide competition to create the best hundred-year sustainability plan for a metropolitan area.

building a livable and sustainable city has been the thrust of the City of Vancouver’s urban planning activity for more than 30 years and has won many national and international awards. the City’s “living first” strategy sparked new cosmopolitan, residential neighbourhoods around the downtown commercial core, creating one of the most vibrant and diverse downtowns in north america.

the private sector plays an equally important role in Vancouver’s pre-eminence in sustainable urban

development. Vancouver has particularly strong expertise in urban environmental planning and design; cities like dubai, las Vegas and albuquerque are applying sustainable urban planning lessons from Vancouver to their own urban development.

InCentIves

research & developmentthe b.C. government has a comprehensive energy plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that includes significant incentives, such as a $25 million innovative Clean energy Fund to showcase advanced energy technologies with strong export potential. the b.C. and Canadian governments are partnering to invest $89 million for hydrogen fuel cell fuelling stations and the world’s first fleet of 20 fuel cell busses.

the Canadian government provides financial resources to support r&d in advanced energy and clean technology. the eco energy for renewable Power Program encourages investment in energy conservation and renewable energy projects, with a total commitment of $1.48 billion.

the Vancouver-based national research Council Canada institute for Fuel Cell innovation works with universities, government agencies and companies on projects focused on the research, development, demonstration and testing of hydrogen and fuel cell systems. sustainable development technology Canada is a not-for-profit foundation with an investment fund of $550 million that finances and supports the development and demonstration of clean technologies.

the scientific research and experimental development (sr&ed) program is a federal tax incentive designed

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to encourage research and development in Canada. Qualifying non-Canadian companies are eligible to receive tax credits of 20 per cent of qualified expenditures. Canadian companies receive enhanced credits. the b.C. government adds a ten per cent tax credit for qualifying Canadian and non-Canadian corporations that conduct r&d in british Columbia.

the national research Council of Canada’s industrial research assistance Program (nrC-iraP) provides a range of technical and business-oriented advisory services to support growth-oriented Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises. this can include non-repayable contributions to Canadian firms interested in research to develop their services, products and processes. the program has contributed more than $570 million to more than 30,000 projects. in 2007-2008, approximately $13 million was available to firms in b.C.

venture Capitalbritish Columbia offers tax credits of 30 per cent to qualified resident investors who provide venture capital to small businesses conducting r&d on proprietary technologies. investment must be made through a venture capital corporation or directly to an eligible business corporation. early-stage ventures are also eligible for support from the b.C. government’s $90 million b.C. renaissance Capital Fund.

otherbritish Columbia’s international Financial activity act (iFaa) allows incorporated Canadian companies with permanent establishments in b.C. to recoup up to 100 per cent of provincial corporate income taxes on international income from patents related to wind, solar and tidal power generation.

british Columbia provides a number of other targeted incentives for alternative energy production, including partial abatement of property taxes, exemptions from sales tax and accelerated depreciation allowances for tax purposes. there is also a Government of Canada incentive for wind power production.


> Bc environment industry associationwww.bceia.comindustry association comprising engineering & environmental service companies, and technology companies.

> Bc hydro (Power smart Program, Bc hydro research and development fund)www.bchydro.com the largest provider of electricity in b.C. and a major contributor to the development of advanced energy solutions.

> B.c. ministry of economic developmentwww.investbc.cawww.equitycapital.gov.bc.caProvincial government department that promotes commerce and investment in b.C. and administers b.C.’s venture capital programs.

> Bc Pellet fuel manufacturers associationwww.pellet.orgassociation working to advance wood pellet firing technology.

> Bc sustainable energy associationwww.bcsea.orgnon-profit society of citizens, professionals and practitioners promoting sustainable energy, energy efficiency and conservation.

> B.c. technology industry association (Bctia)www.bctia.orgnon-profit organization that supports the growth of b.C.’s technology industry through a variety of programs and initiatives.

> Biodiesel association of canadawww.biodiesel-canada.orgassociation that promotes the development of a Canadian commercial bio-diesel industry.

> canada green Building councilwww.cagbc.org a national coalition based in Vancouver that works to accelerate the design and construction of green buildings in Canada.

> canada revenue agencywww.cra.gc.cawww.cra-arc.gc.ca/sredCanadian government department that administers the sr&ed program; it has an office in Vancouver.

> canadian wind energy associationwww.canwea.canon-profit trade association that promotes development of wind energy.

> city greenwww.citygreen.canon-profit that works in partnership with government, business, and community organizations to promote environmental sustainability.

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> city of vancouverwww.vancouver.ca/sustainabilitywww.onedayvancouver.ca/portal/phpwww.vancouver.ca/commsvcs/planningthe City is a leader in many sustainability-related activities, in both its own operations and in the community. its planning department has developed unique approaches to sustainable urban planning.

> community energy associationwww.communityenergy.bc.canon-profit society that promotes energy conservation, energy efficiency and green energy supplies through community projects.

> david suzuki foundationwww.davidsuzuki.orgFoundation that seeks ways for society to live in balance with the natural world.

> fuel cells canadawww.fuelcellscanada.caVancouver-based national industry association for the hydrogen and fuel cells industry.

> geoexchange B.c.www.geoexchangebc.caassociation of private and public entities, providing information and resources for the growing geo-exchange industry.

> gloBe foundationwww.globe.caVancouver-based nonprofit organization seeking practical business-oriented solutions to environmental problems. Hosts an international conference on sustainability every two years in Vancouver.

> hydrogen highwaywww.hydrogenhighway.caPartnership between government and industry to support Canada’s transition to a hydrogen economy.

> independent Power Producers association of British columbiawww.ippbc.comassociation of power suppliers, power retailers, and supporting industries.

> international centre for sustainable citieswww.icsc.canon-profit that advances sustainable urban practices, particularly planning for long-term sustainability, in developing countries.

> international financial centrewww.ifcbc.comnon-profit society that promotes b.C. as a centre for international financial activity.

> national research council of canadawww.nrc-cnrc.gc.caCanadian government agency that provides support to small- and medium-sized businesses. it has an office in Vancouver.

> sustainable technology development canadawww.sdtc.canational foundation that finances and supports the development and demonstration of clean technologies.

> vancouver fuel cell vehicle Programwww.vfcvp.gc.caConsortium of the Governments of Canada and british Columbia, Fuel Cells Canada, and Ford Motor Company, established to conduct the first fleet demonstration of fuel cell cars in Canada.

researCh LInks

> British columbia institute of technology

Centre for the advancement of green roof technologyhttp://commons.bcit.ca/greenroof

photovoltaic energy applied research Lab (pearL)www.bcit.ca/appliedresearch/tc/facilities/pearl.shtml

> Powertech labswww.powertech.bc.ca

> simon fraser university

4d Labswww.4dlabs.ca

Canadian Industrial energy end−use data and analysis Centrewww.cieedac.sfu.ca/CIeedaCweb/index.php

energy and materials research group (emrg)www.emrg.sfu.ca/emrgweb/index.php

mathematics and Information technology and Complex systems (mItaCs) national Centre of excellence www.mitacs.math.ca/index.htm

> university of British columbia

Centre for advanced Wood processing www.cawp.ubc.ca

Centre for environmental research in minerals, metals and materials (Cerm3) www.mining.ubc.ca/cerm3/index.html

Centre for human settlementswww.chs.ubc.ca

Centre for Interactive research on sustainabilitywww.ires.ubc.ca

Centre for Landscape researchwww.sustainable-communities.agsci.ubc.ca

Clean energy research Centerwww.cerc.ubc.ca

school of Community and regional planningwww.scarp.ubc.ca

structured surface physics Laboratorywww.physics.ubc.ca/ssp

sustainable development research Institutewww.sdri.ubc.ca


BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » TOURISM JUNE 2008


tourismVancouver is a premier global destination. tourism is expected to grow rapidly, spurred by the 2010 olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and a major extension to the Vancouver Convention Centre.Industry snapshotVancouver’s beauty has made it a magnet for people from all over the world for more than a century. Nearly 9 million people visit the region each year, about 60 per cent of them from Canada. Visits from other parts of the world continue to grow, particularly from Europe and mexico. two million people visit each year from the united states.

there are more than 24,000 hotel rooms in the region, with more tourist accommodation available in seasonal rooms, hostels and bed and breakfasts. An additional 2,500 hotel rooms will be completed by 2011.

in 2009, Vancouver’s waterfront convention centre will more than triple in size, to a total of almost 500,000 square feet of function space. the facility will offer Canada’s largest convention centre ballroom, more than 70 meeting rooms and 300,000 square feet of exhibition space. this will allow it to accommodate all but the largest conventions.

in addition to a spectacular view, the new facility will offer unique environmental features: a six-acre “living roof”, a man made marine habitat in the building’s foundation, grey and black water recycling, and seawater heating and cooling. more than 14,000 hotel rooms are within easy walking distance.

Conventions and business meetings account for 1.9 million hotel nights, and visitor spending is approaching $600 million annually. these numbers are expected to grow more than 50 per cent between 2008 and 2015.

total spending by overnight visitors amounted to more than $4.4 billion in 2006. the average visitor spent four days in the region, and spent $117 per day.

CompetItIve advantagesVancouver’s strongly competitive tourist sector is based on its unique juxtaposition of overwhelming natural

mAjEstiC mouNtAiNs, sPArkliNG oCEAN, rAiNforEsts ANd bEAutiful foliAGE - All four sEAsoNs mAkE VANCouVEr oNE of thE most bEAutiful CitiEs iN thE Worldbeauty and a diverse, cosmopolitan and exciting city. it offers a pristine natural setting, world class dining and nightlife, luxurious accommodations and a variety of one-of-a-kind attractions and museums. it caters to the desires of shoppers in search of great bargains, outdoors adventurers looking for a thrill, lovers of culture who want to savour the arts, and sports fans who enjoy a good game.

Vancouver is the world’s gateway to b.C., which offers an extraordinary range of tourist attractions just beyond Greater Vancouver. the city has excellent road and rail connections to the rest of North America. its award-winning international airport is served by more than 50 air carriers and is only 14 kilometres from downtown Vancouver – the two will be linked by rapid transit in 2009. Vancouver’s port is an important destination in the cruise business, catering to about a million passengers a year.

Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the top ten meeting destinations. on average, Vancouver events draw 11 per cent higher attendance than the same events at different locations the previous year.

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BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » TOURISM JUNE 2008


the Government of british Columbia is committed to doubling tourist revenues by 2015. Vancouver is successfully building its brand by pursuing a strategy of exceeding visitor expectations and by making the region the most welcoming and accessible in North America.

hosting the 2010 olympic and Paralympic Winter Games is already enhancing Vancouver’s well-established global reputation as a premier destination. the latest research by london-based Anholt City brands ranks Vancouver’s brand as 8th best in the world in 2007, up from 16th in 2006.

InCentIvessome individually tailored incentives are available from tourism Vancouver.604-682-2222www.tourismvancouver.com


> B.C. & Yukon Hotel Associationwww.bcyha.comindustry association for hotels.

> B.C. Restaurant & Foodservices Associationwww.bcrfa.comindustry association for restaurants.

> Best Cities Global Alliancewww.bestcities.netGlobal alliance of convention bureaus that deliver excellent experience for meeting planners.

> City of Vancouver Visitor Informationwww.vancouver.ca/visitors.htminformation on arts, culture, events, outdoor sports and recreation, parks and gardens, self-guided walking tours, transportation and sightseeing.

> Council of Tourism Associations of British Columbia www.cotabc.comindustry association for tourist associations.

> Northwest Cruise Ship Associationwww.nwcruiseship.orgNon-profit that builds relationships between cruise lines and communities.

> Tourism British Columbiawww.tourismbc.comtourism support agency of b.C.

> Tourism Vancouverwww.tourismvancouver.comGreater Vancouver’s tourism promotion agency.

> Vancouver 2010 Organizing Committee www.winter2010.comorganizing entity for the 2010 olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver.

> Vancouver Coast & Mountains Tourism Regionwww.vcmbc.comregional association that provides tourist information.

> Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre www.vcec.comoperator of Vancouver’s convention centre and other facilities.

> Vancouver Airport Authoritywww.yvr.comoperator of Vancouver’s award-winning international airport.


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BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » TRaNSpORTaTION & lOGISTICS JUNE 2008

The complete VEDC Business & Investment Guide is available in pDF format on our website at: www.vancouvereconomic.com. To request the guide in book format ($25) please phone 1-866-632-9668.

transportation & logisticsVancouver offers the fastest major trade connection between the economic powerhouses of asia and north america.Industry snapshotgreater Vancouver is the nexus of an established and innovative commercial transportation network in Western canada. around the clock movement of commercial ships, trains and trucks make this one of north america’s most vibrant trading centres. innovative planning and expanded government and private sector investments are bolstering Vancouver’s position as the main canadian gateway for trade between asia and north america.

Vancouver’s port is one of the world’s best deep-water harbours and one of the closest ports in north america to asia. shipping to asian ports from Vancouver saves at least one day compared to other West coast ports. Vancouver is the top port for foreign export tonnage in north america and has the third most foreign container traffic on the West coast.

CompetItIve advantagesVancouver’s competitive position in transportation and logistics is buttressed by strong transportation infrastructure, emerging logistics capacity, and major public and private investments in the region’s role as a trade gateway to asia.

three major railways link Vancouver to key canadian, american and Mexican markets. commercial railroad operators have “on-dock” access to Vancouver’s shipping terminals, allowing for fast and more efficient movement of goods.

the U.s.-canadian border is within an hour’s drive from the port for commercial truckers. Most of north america’s consumer markets can be serviced by truck from Vancouver within three to four days. Under the north america Free trade agreement (naFta), firms located in B.c. have duty-free access to U.s. and Mexican markets, while materials and equipment can be sourced duty free from the U.s. and Mexico. canada has the lowest transportation costs among naFta countries.

the Vancouver international airport provides a high-quality, low-cost gateway for passengers and cargo.

it is the second largest international passenger gateway on north america’s west coast and has the lowest landing fees in canada.

Vancouver’s vibrant commercial transportation network is tied together by strong trucking, logistics, warehousing and distribution firms. these firms offer the hi-tech and efficient services global businesses need to meet customers “just in time” needs. Major global freight-forwarding and air cargo firms have offices in Vancouver, which is also a regional hub for FedEx and Ups.

the federal and provincial governments and the commercial transportation industry are investing more than $13 billion to triple container flow through Vancouver by 2020, as well as doubling air freight. these investments include major expansions of port and airport capacity as well as upgrades to enhance commercial truck and rail traffic flow through the region. an additional $7 billion investment in transit improvements is further reducing traffic congestion.

thE VancoUVEr intErnational airport is thE sEcond largEst intErnational passEngEr gatEWay on north aMErica’s WEst coastInCentIvesthe international Maritime centre offers tax incentives to shipping companies, while an Export distribution centre at Vancouver’s international airport allows duty and tax-free storage of imported goods prior to export from canada.

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BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » KEY SECTORS » TRaNSpORTaTION & lOGISTICS JUNE 2008

The complete VEDC Business & Investment Guide is available in pDF format on our website at: www.vancouvereconomic.com. To request the guide in book format ($25) please phone 1-866-632-9668.


> Asia Pacific Foundation of Canadawww.asiapacific.ca national research group that works to strengthen canada-asia ties.

> B.C. Ministry of Economic Developmentwww.investbc.cawww.equitycapital.gov.bc.caprovincial government department that promotes commerce and investment in B.c. and administers B.c.’s venture capital programs.

> B.C. Trucking Associationwww.bctrucking.comindustry association of commercial trucking firms in B.c., whose members employ 26,000 people and operate 14,000 motor carriers.

> Canada Department of Foreign Affairs and International Tradewww.dfait-maeci.gc.cacanadian government department responsible for promoting international trade.

> Chamber of Shipping of B.C.www.chamber-of-shipping.comadvocacy organization representing 150 maritime companies and related entities in Western canada. the chamber includes the international Maritime centre which leverages tax and regulatory policies to attract head offices of maritime shipping companies to B.c. and canada.

> City of Vancouverwww.vancouver.ca/engsvcs/transportthe city’s Engineering services department provides information on current transportation system performance and plans for the future.

> Government of British ColumbiaPacific Gateway Initiativewww.th.gov.bc.ca/pacificgateway/index.htmBritish columbia’s contribution to a unique partnership of industries and governments working to improve goods flow through the region.

> Greater Vancouver Gateway Councilwww.gvgc.ca non-profit organization of senior executives from industry, government and academia focused on expanding Vancouver’s position as a trade and tourism gateway.

> Translink – South Coast B.C. Transportation Authoritywww.translink.bc.cagovernment organization responsible for the regional road and transit network.

> University of British Columbia Centre for Transportation Studieswww.sauder.ubc.ca/ctsresearch centre focused on economics, management and policy issues within the transportation and logistics sector.

> Vancouver Fraser Port Authoritywww.vfpa.cathree Vancouver area port authorities were amalgamated into this authority in 2008, significantly increasing efficiency and competitiveness.

> Vancouver International Airport Authoritywww.yvr.caoperator of Vancouver’s award-winning international airport.

> Western Transportation Advisory Councilwww.westac.com Vancouver-based industry association working to improve the transportation supply chain in Western canada.

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DESTINATION VANCOUVER

information sources for business visitors, investors, entrepreneurs, immigrants and foreign students coming to vancouver.


BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » DESTINATION VANCOUVER JUNE 2008

ALMOST 9 MILLION PEOPLE VISIT GREATER VANCOUVER EACH YEAR

VISITING VANCOUVEREntry requirements for Canada depend on where you live and the reason for your visit. You may need a Temporary Resident Visa. For more information, visit: www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit

Some people are not allowed entry to Canada for security, health, financial or other reasons. Consult a Canadian embassy or consulate - locations of Canadian offices abroad are listed at:www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Visitor Links

> City of Vancouver Visitor InformationInformation on arts, culture, events, outdoor sports and recreation, parks and gardens, self-guided walking tours, transportation and sightseeing.www.vancouver.ca/visitors.htm

> Tourism British ColumbiaTourism information about British Columbia.www.hellobc.com

> Tourism VancouverThe region’s official source for information and services for visitors, providing maps, travel guides, accommodation listings, and a comprehensive directory of Vancouver attractions and sightseeing ideas.www.tourismvancouver.com

IMMIGRATING TO CANADA AND BRITISH COLUMBIACanada and British Columbia welcome thousands of new residents every year.

In most cases, you must apply at a Canadian visa office outside of Canada; in some cases, you can apply to become a permanent resident after you arrive in Canada. Different rules may apply depending on whether you are:

A skilled worker or professional

An investor, entrepreneur or self-employed

A family member of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

An applicant recognized by B.C.’s Provincial Nominee Program

Immigration resources are available at: www.ag.gov.bc.ca/immigration

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BC immigrant EntrEprEnEurs programThe Government of British Columbia offers accelerated immigration for qualified entrepreneurs who have the ability to develop a successful business.www.sbed.gov.bc.ca/programsandservices/ pnp/BC/index.htm

Citizenship and Immigration Canada provides useful resources and services for people looking to immigrate to Canada, including a variety of publications. www.cic.gc.ca

WORkING IN VANCOUVERThere is a broad array of services and resources available for job seekers in Vancouver. Before beginning your job search, make sure you are allowed to work legally in Canada. Newcomers who do not have Canadian citizenship or landed immigrant status, or who wish to acquire a work permit, can visit Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s “Working Temporarily in Canada” website: www.cic.gc.ca/english/work

gEnEraL informationFor general information about working in Canada and B.C., visit the following websites:

> Service Canada – Employment ServicesInformation and resources on obtaining employment in Canada, including online services and forms, and links to regional employment resources.www.servicecanada.gc.ca/en/subjects/employment

> WorkBCA website created by the B.C. government to provide job search, career planning and other employment resources related to B.C.’s job market.www.workbc.ca

> Work FuturesIntended for learners, individuals interested in changing careers or re-entering the labour market, and for career practitioners, Work Futures provides a comprehensive description of close to 200 occupations as they relate to the B.C. labour market.www.workfutures.bc.ca



> Working in CanadaA resource created by the Government of Canada to provide information about Canada’s labour market, job titles, and employment facts by occupation and city, town or region.www.workingincanada.gc.ca

CarEErs in thE puBLiC sECtor

> B.C. Public ServiceThe B.C. Public Service is the province’s largest employer, with over 30,000 employees.www.employment.gov.bc.ca

> City of Vancouver Employment OpportunitiesThe City of Vancouver employs 9,000 people.www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/humanresources

STARTING A BUSINESSThe process to set up a business in Vancouver is determined by the type of business, and by the location of the business.

> Business Registration, Incorporation and LicensesSmall Business B.C. provides information and assistance.Toll Free in B.C.: 1-800-667-2272www.smallbusinessbc.ca

> Federal Company Incorporation and Name SearchesIndustry Canada provides many services and programs for business, including federal company incorporation and name searches.www.ic.gc.ca

> Obtaining a Business LicenseAll businesses operating within the City of Vancouver require a business license; some require multiple licenses, depending on the goods or services provided. To find out about licensing, including requirements, fees, inspections and enforcement, visit:www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/commsvcs/licandinsp

> Self-Serve Business RegistrationThe B.C. Business Registry operates a “one-stop” business registry, enabling proprietorship and partnership businesses to register online with multiple public sector agencies in one step.www.bcbusinessregistry.ca

INFORMATION SOURCES FOR BUSINESSES> B.C. Ministry of Economic DevelopmentPromotes commerce and investment in B.C. www.investbc.com

> B.C. StatsThe statistical agency of the B.C. government. www.bcstats.gov.bc.ca

> City of VancouverThe City of Vancouver publishes extensive business-related information on its website.www.vancouver.ca/business.htm#resources

> Metro VancouverA partnership of 21 municipalities and one electoral area that provides regional services throughout Greater Vancouver.www.gvrd.bc.ca

> Vancouver Public LibraryThe multi-branch library has many resources for businesses.www.vpl.ca

BUSINESS PREMISES & UTILITIESConstruction of and changes to commercial and business buildings require permits, including permits for development, building, occupancy, plumbing and electrical work.

Development Permits are required for new buildings, to determine if the building concept and intended use are suitable for the neighbourhood.

Building Permits are needed for any new building, or for changes to a building, to ensure that the building is safe.

Occupancy Permits are required to ensure the safety of new or renovated buildings for occupancy.

Plumbing, Gas and Electrical Permits are needed when new water pipes, gas pipes or electrical wiring are installed in any building, new or old.

If you do not have the required permits, your business-related activities may be stopped. www.vancouver.ca/commsvcs/developmentservices

> City of Vancouver Engineering ServicesProvides water supply, sewage, drainage, refuse removal, street access, lighting. For water services call 604-326-4800; for sewage services call 604-326-4680; for other services call 604-873-7300. www.vancouver.ca/engsvcs/admin/breakdown.htm

> ElectricityProvided by B.C. Hydro. Call 1-800-224-9374. www.bchydro.com

> Natural GasAvailable from Terasen Gas. Call 1-888-224-2710. www.terasengas.com/Business/default.htm

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FINDING INVESTMENT CAPITALVancouver provides a broad array of financing options for new and established businesses.

> Business Development Bank of CanadaThe BDC, a financial institution owned by the Government of Canada, delivers flexible financing, affordable consulting services and venture capital to Canadian small and medium-sized businesses at every stage of growth.www.bdc.ca

> Venture Capital ProgramsB.C.’s venture capital programs are designed to encourage investors to make equity capital investments in British Columbia-based small businesses, and to ensure that small businesses have continuous access to early-stage venture capital to help them develop and expand.www.gov.bc.ca/ecdevwww.equitycapital.gov.bc.ca

> Western Economic DiversificationThis Canadian government agency assists small businesses and new entrepreneurs through grants, contributions and programs.www.wd.gc.ca

FINDING COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL SPACETo acquire or lease commercial or industrial space, you may consider working with a licensed real estate agent. To find out more about working with realtors and about agency representation options in Vancouver, contact the B.C. Real Estate Association:www.bcrea.bc.ca

Online inventories of available space:

> CSLink.caProvided by the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver, this web site is a regularly updated inventory of commercial property for sale or lease in Greater Vancouver.www.cslink.ca

> Space4LeaseThis website provides an inventory of available office, industrial and retail space in all major Canadian markets, using a network of major real estate brokers.www.space4lease.com

FINDING EMPLOYEESBefore hiring employees, ensure you understand the B.C. Employment Standards Act, and associated regulations.www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/does-esa-apply.htm

rECruitmEntMany employment services, recruitment agencies, online job posting services and ‘headhunter’ or executive search firms provide dedicated services for the Vancouver market.

Online resources:

> Charity VillageEmployer and job seeker resources and job postings, exclusively for the non-profit sector.www.charityvillage.com

> go2Employer and job seeker resources and job postings, exclusively for the tourism industry.www.go2hr.ca

> LifeSciences BCEmployer and job seeker resources and job postings, exclusively for the life sciences and biotechnology industries.www.lifesciencesbc.ca/Employment

> Service Canada JobBankCanada’s one-stop job listing web site, helping Canadian workers, job seekers and employers connect online, free of service charges.http://jb-ge.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca

> T-NET British ColumbiaEmployer and job seeker resources and job postings, exclusively for technology industries.www.bctechnology.com

forEign skiLLEd workErs & profEssionaLsWhen a Canadian employer is unable to find a qualified Canadian resident for a position, skilled workers from overseas may come to Canada through one of a variety of immigration programs.

Establishing a businEss in Canada? Invest in Canada is a service of the Canadian government providing information and services for-non-Canadian business immigrants, as well as for individual entrepreneurs and small, medium and large enterprises around the world. Before committing to an investment in a Vancouver business, ensure you are able to do so under current Canadian law.www.investincanada.gc.ca



The rules for sponsoring a skilled worker can change from time to time – check with Citizenship & Immigration Canada. www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/skilled

The B.C. Provincial Nominee Program is designed to help companies recruit foreign workers in selected industries. Top sectors for provincial nominees are:

Healthcare

Skilled trades

High-tech and information technology

Post-secondary education

For more information, visit:www.pnp.gov.bc.ca

tEmporary forEign workErsEvery year, more than 90,000 foreign workers enter Canada to work temporarily to help Canadian employers address skill shortages. Citizenship and Immigration Canada issues work permits to foreign workers; all temporary foreign workers must have a valid work permit.www.cic.gc.ca/english/work

CREATING A HEALTHY & SAFE WORkPLACEThe Workers Compensation Act (WCA) outlines the rights and responsibilities of employers and workers with respect to health and safety in the workplace. Five documents outline the minimum requirements for occupational health and safety in B.C.

Workers Compensation Act (BC) Excerpts and Summaries (WCA)

Hazardous Products Act (Canada) Summaries (HPA)

Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (OHS Regulation)

Prevention Manual (policies)

Guidelines to help interpret and apply the OHS Regulation and WCA

WorkSafeBC is dedicated to promoting workplace health and safety in B.C. www.worksafebc.com

SELLING PRODUCTS & SERVICESFederal and provincial laws govern how consumer and industrial products can be produced and sold, and the legal responsibility of a business to its customers.

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Food and Drugs Act (Canada)www.laws.justice.gc.ca/en/f-27

Consumer Packaging & Labelling Act (Canada)www.laws.justice.gc.ca/en/C-38

Food & Products Standards Act (British Columbia)www.agf.gov.bc.ca/ministry/legsum/fpst.stm

ExPORTING INFORMATION> Canada Export CentreA centre that promotes, supports and matches exporters to buyers from around the globe, working with government, trade and industry associations and foreign consulates to capitalize on incoming trade delegations.www.canadaexportcentre.com

> Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME)CME is Canada’s largest trade and industry association, promoting the continuous improvement of Canadian manufacturing and exporting.www.cme-mec.ca/bc

> Canadian Trade Commissioner ServiceExport services for Canadian companies, provided through the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, including foreign market industry reports, key contacts searches, target market briefings and trade events.www.infoexport.gc.ca

> Export Development CanadaCanadian government agency providing innovative financing, insurance and bonding solutions to Canadian companies that export goods and services, or invest in other countries.www.edc.ca

> ExportSource.caAn online resource centre developed by the Government of Canada to provide comprehensive information and practical tools for new and experienced exporters. www.exportsource.ca

> Small Business BCNon-profit society offering new and potential exporters services to help export Canadian goods and services.www.smallbusinessbc.ca

> Trade Team BCA group of federal, provincial and local export-service agencies that provides information, programs and services to companies looking to expand into new export markets outside Canada.www.bctradeevents.com

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Small BuSineSS Venture Capital tax CreditCorporations investing in shares of a registered venture capital corporation or eligible business corporation can claim a Venture Capital Tax Credit (VCC).

www.rev.gov.bc.ca/businesswww.equitycapital.gov.bc.ca



BIDDING FOR GOVERNMENT BUSINESSOpportunities to sell goods or services to municipal and provincial government departments and agencies can be found through the following programs:

> City of VancouverBidding opportunities can be accessed on the City of Vancouver website.www.vancouver.ca/bid

> Government of British ColumbiaA government procurement e-service that allows private corporations and individuals the opportunity to browse and compete on public sector tender opportunities in B.C.

Using B.C. Bid, registrants are sent notifications, via e-mail, of government bid opportunities that match pre-selected criteria; registrants can also submit bids electronically.www.bcbid.ca

Businesses may also register to find out about business opportunities related to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.www.2010commercecentre.gov.bc.ca

PROMOTING YOUR BUSINESS IN VANCOUVERThere are many industry associations that address the needs of companies in specific industries. Useful organizations and resources for businesses in all industries include:

> BC Business MagazineMonthly magazine covering business in B.C.www.bcbusinessmagazine.com

> Better Business BureauNon-profit promoting fairness and honesty in the marketplace.www.bbb.org

> Business Council of British ColumbiaAn association representing over 200 large and medium-sized business enterprises.www.bcbc.com

> Business Improvement Areas (BIAs)Non-profit associations of commercial property owners and business tenants who work to improve the economic vitality of their business districts. There are 20 business improvement areas in the city of Vancouver.www.vancouver.ca/commsvcs/cityplans/bia

> Business in Vancouver Weekly magazine that provides business community news and information and publishes a variety of business-related annual publications.www.biv.com

> Canadian Business for Social ResponsibilityNon-profit that encourages socially responsible business practices.www.cbsr.ca

> Ethno Business Council of B.C.Non-profit that supports entrepreneurs who are immigrants to B.C.www.ethno.org

> Vancouver Board of TradeBusiness association that provides advocacy efforts, events, business programs, and member benefits.www.boardoftrade.com

STUDYING IN VANCOUVERVancouver is one of the world’s most popular destinations for international students. If you wish to apply to more than one B.C. educational institution, visit the Post-Secondary Application Service of B.C., an online service to help you apply to most public post-secondary institutions.www.pas.bc.ca

> B.C. Centre for International EducationNon-profit that promotes and helps develop international education in B.C.www.bccie.bc.ca

> Canadian Education Centre, Study Canada A multilingual guide to post-secondary education institutions in Canada.www.studycanada.ca/english/about-bc.htm

> Citizenship & Immigration CanadaThe Canadian Government issues permits for foreign students to study in Canada, and to work in Canada during and after their studies.www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/index.asp“Studying in Canada: A Guide for Foreign Students,” is available at:www.cic.gc.ca/english/resources/publications/study.asp

> LearnLiveBC Website on public post-secondary institutions in Vancouver and B.C., with information on making applications, transferring credits, scholarships and financial assistance.www.learnlivebc.ca

INTERNATIONAL LINKSConsular CorpsOver 70 countries maintain consular representation in B.C.www.protocol.gov.bc.ca/protocol/prgs/consular/consular.htm

Asia Pacific FoundationA national non-profit organization and Canada’s leading independent resource on Asia and Canada-Asia relations.It maintains an extensive database on business associations that link Canadian businesses to their counterparts in Asia.www.asiapacific.ca



OVER 70 COuNTRIES MAINTAIN CONSULAR REPRESENTATION IN BRITISH COLUMBIA

GOVERNMENT & NON-PROFIT SERVICES FOR IMMIGRANTS> City of Vancouver The City’s Social Planning department provides extensive resources and publishes a Newcomer’s Guide to Services in Chinese, English, Punjabi, Spanish and Vietnamese. www.vancouver.ca/commsvcs/socialplanning

> Immigrant Services Society of B.C.Provides English as a Second Language training, job search, job skills training and other services to new immigrants and refugees. Call: 604-684-7498www.issbc.org

> MOSAICProvides immigrants services such as language instruction, employment programs, orientation, settlement counselling, family support, paralegal counselling, interpretation and translation, and community outreach.Call: 604-254-9626www.mosaicbc.com

> Multicultural Helping House SocietyProvides a variety of services to immigrants, including an employment support program for immigrants in professions and trades and settlement support services. Call: 604-879-3277www.helpinghouse.org

> Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society Provides settlement and integration services to immigrants including case management, job finding, and wage subsidy program for work placement assistance. Call: 604-324-7733www.pics.bc.ca

> Skills Connect for Immigrants ProgramHelps immigrants secure jobs that fully utilize their pre-arrival skills.www.ecdev.gov.bc.ca/programsandservices/iQu/skillsConnect

> S.u.C.C.E.S.S.Provides man y services for immigrants, including settlement information and referral, family and youth counselling, language training, employment and small business training, volunteer and community development programs. Call: 604-684-1628www.successbc.ca

> WelcomeBCProvides information to help newcomers to B.C. find out about English language courses, employment, health, education, recreation and other services and resources in their new communities.Call EnquiryBC at: 1-800-663-7867www.gov.bc.cawww.ag.gov.bc.ca/immigration/index.htm

There’s no better way to raise your company’s profile and gain access to resources to grow your business than by joining any one of the many industry-specific member-based organizations and associations in Vancouver. To find out which association(s) may best match your business, contact VEDC.1-866-632-9668

[email protected]

maps> VaNCOUVER & asIa paCIFIC

> GREaTER VaNCOUVER

> CITY OF VaNCOUVER

> DOWNTOWN VaNCOUVER

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BEIJINGSEOUL

TOKYO

SINGAPORE

HONG KONG

HONOLULU

CHICAGONEW YORK

MEXICO CITY

PHOENIXLOS ANGELES

SAN FRANCISCO

SEATTLE

SYDNEY

MELBOURNE AUCKLAND

DALLAS

MIAMI

TORONTO

OTTAWA

MONTRÉAL

ATLANTA

VANCOUVER

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT GUIDE » MapS JUNE 2008

vancouver & asia pacific

The complete VEDC Business & Investment Guide is available in pDF format on our website at www.vancouvereconomic.com. To request the guide in book format ($25) please phone 1-866-632-9668.


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B u r r a r d I n l e tE n g l i s h B a y

VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

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Agricultural AreasMajor Port/Airport FacilitiesMajor Industrial Zone

city of vancouver



..... Aquabus

SkyTrain RouteWest Coast Express

ParkShopping District

HospitalFalse Creek Ferries.....

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