Business Resources

Stay informed and ready for change. Our Business Webinars respond to current events and emerging issues that impact local businesses—whether it's trade developments, policy changes, or shifting economic conditions.

These free, expert-led sessions are designed to help Nelson and area business owners understand what’s happening and what it means for their operations.

Recent Webinars:

April 9, 2025 Webinar: Navigating the 2025 Canada-U.S. Trade & Tariff Landscape. Note, this is an evolving topic and some information may have changed since this was recorded.

March 27, 2025 Webinar: Domestic Trade & Interprovincial Expansion – Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
Learn how to expand your business within Canada by overcoming trade barriers, optimizing logistics, and accessing funding—ideal for business owners, supply chain professionals, and anyone looking to grow in the Canadian market.

Rising tariffs and shifting trade relationships are pushing many businesses to rethink their supply chains. If you're looking to reduce reliance on U.S. suppliers, there are resources available to help you pivot toward Canadian alternatives.

Whether you're searching for new suppliers, industry directories, or expert advice, these tools can support your transition and keep your business resilient:

• • Facing Uncertainty in Canada–U.S. Trade?
    The Canada–U.S. Trade & Engagement Hub from Global Affairs Canada is your go-to resource for navigating cross-border trade. Get updates on regulations, CUSMA compliance, key contacts, and market intelligence to keep your business informed and competitive. Visit the Canada–U.S. Engagement Hub »

  • Worried About Cash Flow, Currency Fluctuations, or Getting Paid?
    The Trade Impact Program from Export Development Canada (EDC) offers $5 billion in support for Canadian exporters and their suppliers. Access trade credit insurance, working capital solutions, and tools to help you manage risk and keep your business moving forward. Explore EDC's Trade Impact Program »

  • Need 1:1 Help Navigating Export or Import Challenges?
    The Export Navigator Program provides free, one-on-one support through our local Export Advisor Michael Hoher, who serves businesses in the Kootenay Boundary region. Whether you're exploring new markets or dealing with import issues, Michael can connect you with tailored resources to help you adapt and grow. Learn more about Export Navigator »

  • Tariff Guidance for B.C. Businesses – Province of British Columbia
    Get clear, up-to-date information on how tariffs may affect your business, plus guidance on navigating trade barriers, responding to disputes, and finding support. Access B.C.’s tariff guidance »
  • Concerned About the Impact of Rising Tariffs?
    The Tariff Resources for Canadian Businesses from the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade offer insights into tariff changes and support to help you adjust your business strategy. View resources and events »

Build a Resilient, Canadian-Based Supply Chain

• Looking to Strengthen or Localize Your Supply Chain?
  The Canadian Company Directories & Resources from BDC help you find verified Canadian suppliers and access tools to build a more resilient, homegrown supply network.  Visit BDC’s resource page »
• Need Help Finding Canadian Manufacturers or Industry-Specific Suppliers?
  The Industrial Company Directories from ISED let you search by sector to connect with Canadian manufacturers and suppliers who meet your business needs. Browse ISED’s company directories »

Check back as we continue to add resources to support local businesses navigating supply chain changes.

Is your business ready for the unexpected? At Greater Nelson Economic Development, we connect local businesses with tools and resources to prepare for challenges like natural disasters, economic disruptions, or unforeseen events. With a solid continuity plan, you can protect your business, recover faster, and thrive through adversity.

Here are some resources to help you get started:

• Rural Resiliency Initiative – led by Community Futures British Columbia, mobilizes expertise to support rural businesses before, during, and after economic disruptions and disasters. Through the Economic Quick Response & Recovery Team, RRI offers disaster relief services, ongoing business resiliency support, and economic disaster response management for rural BC municipalities.
• PreparedBC: Guide for Small Businesses – A toolkit that helps you identify risks, create a business continuity plan, and prepare for emergencies specific to your operations.
• PreparedBC: Small Business Plan – This resource is designed to help small business owners plan and prepare for emergencies that could interrupt operations. Use this template as a starting point and add to it as needed. One simple step today can make a difference in how effectively your business responds to and recovers from a disaster. 
• Canadian Red Cross’ Ready Rating: Emergency preparedness for organizations and businesses – a free, web-based emergency preparedness planning program that helps organizations become better prepared to respond effectively and recover quickly from disasters and other emergencies.

Looking to make your business more sustainable? The Business & Climate Advisor program is here to help local businesses take meaningful, cost-effective steps toward sustainability. This program offers the knowledge, tools, and funding opportunities you need to implement impactful climate initiatives.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your current efforts, the Business & Climate Advisor is your partner in building a more sustainable future for your business and our community. Let’s create positive change together.

Contact the Business & Climate Advisor, Grace Henecka, at grace@discovernelson.com

Looking for a way to invest in your community? The West Kootenay Boundary Community Investment Co-op empowers individuals to invest directly in local businesses, creating jobs, supporting sustainability, and building regional resilience. This co-op provides businesses with access to funding while offering investors an opportunity to support projects that matter to them and strengthen the local economy.

West Kootenay Boundary Community Investment Co-op | Put Your Money Where Your Life Is

Since its launch, supported with over $10,000 in funding between 2018 and 2020, the co-op has become a model for sustainable, community-driven investment. It also attracts support from traditional financial institutions, amplifying its impact. Discover how your investment can grow local businesses and benefit our region for years to come.

Thinking about selling your business or retiring but don’t know where to start? Many business owners face challenges transitioning ownership while wanting to protect their legacy and keep their business thriving. At Greater Nelson Economic Development, we connect you with resources that can help:

• Venture Connect specializes in guiding business owners in rural and remote communities through the selling process. From valuing your business to connecting with qualified buyers, they provide expert support and a platform to showcase your business, ensuring a smooth transition and continued success under new ownership.
• Imagine Kootenay offers a comprehensive platform featuring businesses for sale across the Kootenay region. By connecting you with a wide network of potential buyers, they help align your business with the right match, preserving your legacy and supporting the local economy.

With the right tools and planning, you can ensure a seamless transition, safeguard jobs, and keep your hard work alive in the community. Take the first step toward securing your legacy and explore the resources available today.