COEDC Newsletter

Jun. 8

Written By COEDC RDCO

Central Okanagan Economic News(letter)

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Economic Development News(letter)

June 8th, 2023

BC Chamber of Commerce Launches Labour Market Gap Report

The BC Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the launch of the highly anticipated “Addressing the Labour Market Gap Report”, funded by the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.

This report is the culmination of an extensive research effort, drawing upon the valuable input of 1,225 jobseekers and 812 employers. The provincial survey presents insights that will inform the solutions needed to bridge the gap between employer expectations and jobseeker aspirations.

The report identifies a number of gaps, that include:

Just over 50% of employers described challenges finding qualified candidates within the salary range they offered, while nearly 50% of jobseekers found it challenging to find jobs that met their salary expectations.

Jobseekers are struggling to identify and negotiate compensation for the work they seek. Employers are struggling to find time to administer a recruitment process and define a salary range.

Over 60% of employers reported having a range of employee policies in the workplace including on-the-job training, role expectations and conflict resolution, yet the majority of jobseekers cited a lack of such policies in their previous workplace.

Access the full report by clicking the button below.

Full Report

Learn how to start a business in BC

If you think you’re ready to start a business, participate in WeBC's FREE virtual Starting Your Business Information Sessions (SBIS).

These sessions will provide tips and resources as you work through each aspect of starting a business.

SBIS is offered each week on Wednesday at noon (unless otherwise noted on the link below), and they alternate between parts 1 and 2 from week to week. These FREE virtual sessions are from 12pm to 1pm Pacific Time.

While it is recommended you participate in both parts, you may register for one or both sessions.

Learn More

Collective Perspective Data Analyzed

The BC Chamber of Commerce has released the results of its annual 2022 Collective Perspective survey, designed to identify and understand the issues and challenges facing businesses across the province. For the first time, the results identify both provincial trends and regional differences and similarities on key issues across the province.

Businesses in the Interior of the B.C. tend to be more optimistic about the future than the rest of the Province. The 2022 Collective Perspective survey was publicly released last week by the BC Chamber; respondents in Thompson / Okanagan are ahead of the provincial average on saying that their business is in good shape (62% to 52%) and in having positive prospects for the future (67% to 63%).

Read the Full Report

Complimentary Panel Discussion on Inclusive Hiring

The Kelowna Chamber is partnering with the New Inclusive Economy (NIE) to support local employers in developing more inclusive hiring and employment practices.

The New Inclusive Economy Roadshow in Kelowna will take place on Thursday, June 22 and features inclusive employment stories and insights from province-wide research being conducted by NIE to uncover evidence-based practices surrounding meaningful employment for people with disabilities.

Registration is now open at NIE Roadshow. This is a free event and breakfast will be served.

BuyBC Partnership Program - Now accepting applications!

The Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture program is back! With up to $2.5 million in funding available, this program aims to help strengthen resilience to wildfires, flooding, and extreme heat, and mitigate future climate impacts.

Eligible applicants can access up to $35,000 in cost-shared funding per project. New project categories have been added including exterior sprinkler protection for critical infrastructure, flood-resilient apiary (bees) overwintering and equipment storage, improved barn and indoor aquaculture cooling systems, and innovative projects.

Applications are open from Tuesday, May 23, until Wednesday, June 14, 2023.

Apply Now

Business Continuity Resources

Being prepared for emergencies is crucial for the safety and well-being of ourselves, our loved ones, and our businesses.

We understand the importance of being proactive and ready for any unexpected events. That's why we encourage you to check out our Business Continuity Resources page, where you'll find helpful tips and resources to help you prepare for emergencies that could impact your business.

Let's work together to be proactive and stay informed.