Darren Sweet grew up in Penticton and spent most of his life in the Okanagan. Struggling with an anxiety disorder, Darren held over a hundred different jobs, and never really felt like he fit in anywhere. Ogopogo Tours, an environmentally sustainable tour operator based in Summerland, B.C., has given him a new lease on life … Read More
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Ted Hall grew up in North Vancouver and became immersed in the worlds of construction and design as a teenager when his parents hired a well-known Canadian architect to design a home. Eventually, a Danish construction team was hired to build the home. Ted admired the skill, training, and discipline of these individuals – so … Read More
Born and raised in Vancouver B.C., Michele Partridge was introduced to classic films and musical theatre at a young age. Still, Michele was very shy at school until she discovered drama class in grade 9, and knew that this is where she belonged. Although she found her craft at a young age, Michele insists that … Read More
Mary-Anne Bowcott grew up on a hobby farm in Sooke, B.C., where hard, physical work came naturally. Tough times early on meant that Mary-Anne needed an opportunity to make a higher wage and gain financial independence. Securing a job in the trades gave Mary-Anne the means to survive on her own while completing her schooling. … Read More
Dai Fukasaku was born and raised in Tokyo, Japan. After leaving Tokyo, Dai lived in 13 different towns and cities throughout the United States and Canada before settling in Prince Rupert, B.C. He was drawn to Prince Rupert for it’s friendly and generous people, beautiful nature and the fresh, local seafood. Dai became interested in … Read More
Growing up in a Montreal suburb, Lauren Phillips felt more at home in the outdoors, hiking, paddling, and camping with family and friends. At a young age she joined Scouts Canada which gave her the opportunity to grow into leadership roles while participating in outdoor activities. Eager to find a career that would give her … Read More
Kory Wood was born and raised in Chetwynd, B.C. and is a member of the Saulteau First Nations. He credits the Saulteau First Nations and the Tansi Friendship Centre with providing him the support and resources necessary to be active in team sports at a young age. Participating in sports helped him develop the social … Read More
The Open for Business Awards Best Practices Guide supports local governments and First Nations to apply for the Open for Business Awards, which recognize and promote BC communities that have implemented leading business friendly policies and initiatives. The guide also provides ideas how to build a business-friendly environment in your community.
The Open for Business Awards celebrate communities that have created a business friendly environment, allowing small business to flourish. The awards are a great way to celebrate your community’s achievements and gain extensive media exposure. Learn more about the 2020 Open for Business Awards by checking out this inspiring and informative video!
BC is open for business. The Small Business Roundtable is pleased to announce the start of the Open for Business Awards nominations which opened on Tuesday, September 24th at the Union of British Columbia Municipalities Conference. The Open for Business Awards recognize the communities that best demonstrate they are promoting and adopting business friendly initiatives in … Read More