|
Provincial News
B.C. Trade Deal with Ontario, Manitoba and Yukon to Eliminate Barriers
| | In addition, the accords will boost labour mobility by easing the movement of regulated workers and professionals across provinces. Premier David Eby emphasized that these initiatives are a strategic response to economic challenges while reducing reliance on the U.S. market, as well as fostering closer interprovincial ties. | | |
Municipal News
Saanich Advances Revamped Plan for Shelbourne Corridor
| | |
Saanich council recently received a revised draft of the Shelbourne Valley Plan, which will shape land use and transportation policy in one of the municipality’s most dynamic corridors. Building on the original 2017 plan, the 2025 update responds to new housing policies, demographic data and community input.
Key changes include a push for greater housing diversity and affordability near transit, updates to land use designations and a stronger focus on supporting local businesses. The updated draft now enters Phase 4 of public engagement, running from August to October 2025 and will include open houses, online events and stakeholder meetings. A final version is expected in early 2026.
| |
|
Municipal News
Esquimalt Launches New Investment and Business Hub
| | |
The Township of Esquimalt recently unveiled a new website, WhyEsquimalt.ca, designed to attract investment and support local businesses. Acting as a one-stop hub for entrepreneurs, investors and community partners, the site features a business directory, community stories, economic data and an interactive dashboard profiling the township.
The initiative strives to help new and existing businesses explore opportunities and access support services. Mayor Barbara Desjardins and Economic Development Manager Terése Finegan say the site will help build a unified narrative that reflects the township’s values and economic potential.
| | |
SIPP News
SIPP CEO Recognized in Prestigious BC500 Leadership List
| | |
SIPP is proud to share that CEO Aaron Stone has been named one of the province’s most influential business leaders in BC500, Business in Vancouver’s annual showcase of leadership excellence across B.C.
Now in its fourth edition, the publication honours 500 changemakers whose professional achievements and community contributions are shaping the province’s economic and social future.
Curated by BIV’s award-winning editorial team, BC500 highlights leaders who exemplify values like trust, inclusion, corporate citizenship and impact. Aaron’s inclusion in the economic development category speaks to his dedication to regional prosperity and collaborative growth.
| | |
Provincial News
Victoria MLAs Take On New Roles in Cabinet Shuffle
| | |
A provincial cabinet shuffle on July 17 brought new roles to two Greater Victoria MLAs. Victoria-Swan Lake MLA Nina Krieger was appointed Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, where she will oversee public safety policy and legislation, as well as regulation of the cannabis, liquor and gambling sectors.
Oak Bay-Gordon Head MLA Diana Gibson has moved from the Ministry of Jobs to the Ministry of Citizens' Services. This portfolio oversees more than 300 government services, including Service BC, online access to benefits and digital infrastructure.
| | |
Don't Miss the Latest SIPP Member Spotlight
Doane Grant Thornton Explores Simplicity as a Strength in the Latest Changemakers
| | |
SIPP's latest Changemakers feature, which spotlights member organizations shaping our region’s future, explores how Doane Grant Thornton is making a lasting impact by sticking to a clear and purpose-driven approach. The organization's focus on clients guides how they work, give back and contribute to a stronger South Island economy. From keeping jobs local to investing over $130,000 annually in Island-based charities, the firm is deeply committed to the places and people it serves.
That commitment is especially evident through Vibrant Communities, a Doane Grant Thornton-led initiative that brings together local innovators to imagine a shared vision for the future of Greater Victoria. Managing Partner Michael Stubbing shares how this kind of collaborative thinking, alongside regional coordination, strong local leadership and purpose-driven business, is essential for building resilience and prosperity across the South Island.
| | |
Municipal News
North Saanich Adopts New Official Community Plan
| | |
The District of North Saanich recently adopted a new Official Community Plan (OCP), setting a 20-year vision for growth. The plan places a strong focus on preserving the district’s rural and agricultural character while also making space for housing diversity, local food production and economic development.
The District selected the Doughnut Economics framework to guide the OCP. Doughnut Economics is a framework for sustainable development that balances human well-being and ecological sustainability, especially around the agricultural sector. The District continues to have the highest average annual farm sale revenues of any municipality on Vancouver Island. The OCP notes that there is potential for growth and revitalization in the District's agri-food sector, depending on both macroeconomic and consumer demand factors.
"We want to keep existing farmers and attract younger farmers here, while making things economically viable so they can survive..." says Felice Mazzoni, Director of Planning and Community Services for North Saanich. "That's really important to the North Saanich community, and so we wanted to see that happen on the ground."
North Saanich also boasts a thriving boating industry with the North Saanich Marina serving as a central hub.
| | |
Did You Know?
-
In Greater Victoria's tourism sector, visitor numbers are up four percent and hotel occupancy is up seven per cent. - Business Examiner
| | Podcasting Made Easy at the COAST Ocean Innovation Hub | |
Record like a pro! Elevate your podcast with our state-of-the-art, 100% soundproof studio at SIPP's COAST Ocean Innovation Hub. Enjoy seamless setup, top-tier audio and video equipment and three dynamic camera angles for a polished production.
COAST's experienced A/V engineer handles all technical troubleshooting, ensuring flawless recording. Connect with remote guests effortlessly via Riverside and receive raw footage, including audio and three separate video files.
- 100% soundproof studio
- studio and equipment set up
- technical troubleshooting by an experienced A/V engineer
- high-quality audio & video equipment
- 3 camera angles
- option for remote guests to join via Riverside
- transfer of raw footage (audio file + 3 separate video files)
| | |
What We're Working On
-
Stay tuned for the upcoming SIPP Summer Patio Mixer on August 27 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Watch your emails for more information!
-
SIPP is currently working to complete the Rising Economy Taskforce Final Report, featuring insights and recommendations to address Greater Victoria's economic issues and unleash its potential.
-
We are hard at work on SIPP's next strategic plan, which will be released in September. This collaborative document will help guide the next 5 years of the organization and work towards building a resilient and inclusive economy.
| | Featured SIPP Members of the Week | |
We’re proud to highlight these organizations as South Island Prosperity Partnership’s Members of the Week. As dedicated members of SIPP, their leadership, collaboration and commitment to regional prosperity help strengthen the South Island economy and community. We thank them for the meaningful impact they continue to make.
|
| |
|
💰Victoria Foundation delivers $5.35 million in Community Grants to 209 non-profits - Oak Bays News
📊 Bank of Canada says inflation expectations easing as businesses hold off passing on tariff price hikes - Financial Post
🔐 Cyber threats are evolving fast — but so are the tools to stop them. Join Tecnet for an exclusive webinar and learn how our Managed Detection & Response (MDR) solution delivers enterprise-grade security without the complexity. - Tecnet
| | Follow Us On Our Social Media Channels to Learn more! | |
| Let us know your views on this week's newsletter and what stories you want to see! | | | | | | |
