There are many challenges to owning a small business. Among them, access to capital. The ability to raise capital can determine the success of getting a good idea off the ground. It can also determine the ability to attract and retain good employees, to expand, and to compete in the global marketplace.

This government recognizes the primary role of small business in diversifying the economy and in creating new job opportunities. The Ministry of Economic Development offers three key programs to help small business gain access to capital. These programs offer tax credits to investors so that small businesses may continue to lead the economic future of British Columbia.

Our provincial Venture Capital Programs encourage investments in British Columbia businesses by providing British Columbia investors with a 30 percent refundable tax credit.

Our Employee Share Ownership Program promotes investment by employees in their company by providing them with a 20 percent provincial income tax credit.

Retiring business owners can use an employee share ownership plan to transfer ownership of their company to employees by selling shares directly to their employees, who receive a 20 percent provincial income tax credit on their investment.

Our Labour-Sponsored Funds Program assists in the creation of investment funds which are able to invest in small and medium sized businesses with high growth potential that need equity financing to achieve success.

Have a closer look at our programs and see where you fit in as either an investor, small business owner, or as an employee. The right funding at the right time can make all the difference in achieving success in today’s economy.