Squamish named best city for work in B.C. by BC Business magazine

Ranking highlights how lifestyle, entrepreneurial citizens, a strong brand and a bold vision inspire growth and opportunity.

Ask any Squamish resident and they will tell you that things are changing, and changing quickly here. There is a noticeable energy in the air as new businesses and housing developments appear to sprout up almost monthly, offering exciting new services and amenities to the local community and the hosts of new residents moving into town. Many say it was only a matter of time, but the secret now appears to be officially out.

Squamish has just been ranked number one by BC Business magazine as the best place for work in B.C.

“This recognition provides an opportunity to highlight our vision for a future-focussed economy centred around an outdoor-centric lifestyle, an entrepreneurial workforce, and a location that offers key transportation links to overseas markets,” says District of Squamish Mayor, Patricia Heintzman. “We have experienced major population growth as new citizens choose Squamish for lifestyle, resulting in a critical mass of human talent injecting innovation into our business community.”

The third annual BC Business ranking of B.C.’s 36 best cities for work measures seven economic indicators that, combined, paint a picture of relative economic health and the relative appeal of a community for those seeking work.

With a Community Digital Strategy soon to be adopted, a new Economic Development Action Plan in place, a Marketing Canada Award recognizing the brand strategy and action plan, and an update to the Official Community Plan well underway, Squamish is positioning itself for the future.

“This ranking affirms that we are doing some things right and beginning to hit our stride, but we remain introspective about where we need to further improve our business climate to meet the needs of businesses, support diverse housing for all income levels, and inspire more jobs closer to home,” continues Heintzman. “This acknowledgment is really welcome, and ultimately motivates us to continue the drive toward a diverse and healthy business environment into the future.” 

Several pivotal projects are currently in stream in Squamish, not the least of which is the transformation of the Squamish oceanfront through a series of developments that will open up public water access and make Squamish a true waterfront community. Clean energy is also a key area of focus as Squamish explores ways with industry and the education sector to create a tech hub on the Oceanfront lands.

The complete BC Business list, along with details on methodology and analysis of B.C.’s top-ranked cities, can be found in the December/January issue of BC Business, and is available online at BCBusiness.ca/bestcities and on newsstands November 30.

To learn more about economic development in the District of Squamish visit squamishbestplacetowork.com.

About Squamish

Squamish, B.C. is a vibrant, growing community located in the heart of Sea to Sky Country, mid-way between Vancouver and Whistler. Nestled between ocean and mountains, the small-town setting, spectacular natural environment, and unmatched outdoor recreation make for a lifestyle and location for business investment few places can offer. Squamish also boasts a flourishing and diverse arts and culture scene, Quest University Canada, and exciting waterfront development projects, with a diverse economic base ranging from tourism and wellness to forestry and manufacturing. A dedicated and passionate local population strives to protect the fragile ecosystem that is at the heart of what characterizes this adventure-centric outdoor lifestyle, while new economic development efforts focus on clean energy, recreation technology, and the knowledge-based industries.

November 30, 2016