Media Releases

VICTORIA, B.C.  – Helping newcomer businesses thrive is the goal of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce’s New to Canada program, launched today at the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria’s office.

“We know that newcomers are vital for the future of our region and the best way we can help build good business and great community is by connecting new entrepreneurs with our welcoming business community,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said. “Fresh ideas add vibrancy and create resilience, and having the support of established organizations ensures a smoother path to success for everyone.”

​The New to Canada program aims to empower and support newcomer business owners as they grow their businesses in Greater Victoria. To qualify, business owners must have permanent residency or citizenship for less than three years. The program will offer participants comprehensive support in the development of their business through the provision of two years of membership with the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce and other community engagement opportunities.

“After coming to Canada from a very different culture, breaking into the local business community felt daunting. But the Chamber’s doors were wide open for me. And the staff have been very supportive, right from day one,” said Inderbir Singh, president of Western Canada Security Corp., a 2024 Business Awards Finalist in the Emerging Business Person of the Year category, and recent immigrant who promotes the value of The Chamber to others. “Launching Western Canada Security had me working mostly on my own, head down and nose to the grindstone. When you don’t have friends and family close by, a strong professional network helps fill that gap.”

​​The Chamber’s New to Canada program is funded through sponsorship from Air Canada, the Victoria Airport Authority, the Victoria Foundation and Western Design + Build, and the program works in partnership with ICA and Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society.

“Air Canada is proud to support the New to Canada Program, which fosters community integration and provides opportunities for new Canadians to thrive,” said Serge Corbeil, Director, Government Relations, Western Region at Air Canada. “As air connectivity drives business, Air Canada is supporting the growth of small businesses in Greater Victoria and connecting them globally across our expansive network.”

For more information on the event, go to victoriachamber.ca.
Photos of the launch can be viewed here: victoriachamber.ca/connect