Gibsons has been recognized as a town that’s truly “open for business.”
The Town of Gibsons was named the winner in the Open for Business category for small communities at the 16th annual Small Business BC Awards Gala on Feb. 21.
The category celebrates communities that have created a business-friendly environment, allowing small business to flourish. Gibsons was one of three finalists in its category, along with Lumby and Ucluelet. Trail and District won the award for medium communities and the City of Maple Ridge won for large communities.
“We are extremely pleased to have been recognized with this award,” said Mayor Bill Beamish in his acceptance speech. “Since the start of 2017, the Town of Gibsons has successfully built a vibrant, year-round Public Market, and also attracted more than 185 new businesses. These include many wonderful new restaurants, cafés, breweries and retailers, as well as spas, health-care providers, professional services, contractors, automotive shops, daycares and even a Tiny Home manufacturer.”
Beamish cited well-developed application processes, excellent community amenities and progressive civic policies among the factors that drew such a wide range of businesses to the town.
“Of course, there’s also Gibsons’ stunning seaside setting and welcoming, laid-back character,” he said.
“Above all though, I think that when business owners choose Gibsons, they are choosing a community that’s small enough to genuinely care about their success – and large enough to provide the amenities, infrastructure and market they need to thrive.
“Gibsons is undergoing a true renaissance – and I look forward to working with council in the coming years to ensure our town continues to prosper.”
The Small Business BC Gala Awards were held at the Vancouver Convention Centre. Mayor Beamish, Coun. Aleria Ladwig, Gibsons CAO Emanuel Machado and Gibsons and District Chamber of Commerce executive director Chris Nicholls attended the event, which brought together more than 600 small business owners, supporters, providers and government officials.
