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 BC Government looking for business input on PST re-implementation
The BC government will be re-implementing the provincial sales tax (PST) effective April 1, 2013 and they are looking for your input. They are looking for suggestions about the best way to provide you with re-implementation information. Please forward your advice to SBRPublications@gov.bc.ca by April 30, 2012.
Additionally, the government will be updating their website as information becomes available, and you can subscribe to their What's New web page to be notified of any updates.
Visitor Centre Funding
As part of the Gaining the Edge Tourism Strategy, the BC Government is increasing Visitor Centre funding. Chambers of Commerce operating Visitor Centre will have already received this money for the purchase of materials, supplies or services.
Please note that this additional funding must be spent by March 31, 2012, and that a statement of purchases must be submitted to the Ministry no later than April 30, 2012. If you have any questions regarding this funding, please contact Nancy Frederickson at 250-356-5630.
Changes to EI Benefits for Apprentices
Are you an employer that has an apprentice on staff? There will be upcoming changes beginning April 2nd to the process of how apprentices access Financial Supports while they are attending the classroom component of their training.
For details that will assist both you and your apprentice, visit the Employment & Labour website.
John Winter to sit on Prime Minister Award Committee
The Prime Minister's Volunteer Awards (PMVA) have been created to recognize the exceptional contributions of volunteers, local businesses and innovative not-for-profit organizations in improving the well-being of families and their communities. The awards highlight best practices in community leadership and encourage partnerships across sectors.
John Winter, President & CEO of the BC Chamber of Commerce, has been nominated to the National Advisory Committee. This committee will evaluate the top-ranked nominations provided by the regional reviewers and will recommend the award winners to the Minister of HRSD for final decision.
More information on these awards can be found through the PMO.
Arts Engagement Proposals Open
The Request for Proposal for the Arts Engagement projects under the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation has been posted on BC Bid as document ON-002222. Closing date is April 16, 2012.
The EmbraceBC Arts Engagement projects utilize the arts to bring together diverse groups to interact and collaborate on a project that addresses racism, promotes multiculturalism and builds an inclusive community. Project terms can be for up to 18 months in order to provide communities with opportunities to enhance project deliverables and outcomes. Contract values will be for a maximum of $35,000. All inquiries should be directed to Bobby Kapoor.
Communities in Bloom: Grow investment in your community
Communities in Bloom is a program that inspires communities to enhance and sustain the visual appeal of neighbourhoods, public spaces, parks and streetscapes through the imaginative use of regionally-appropriate plants and landscaping with attention to environmental stewardship and to preserve heritage and cultural assets.
People and businesses want to be associated with an attractive looking community, which is particularly important with respect to potential residents, investors, visitors, developers, realtors and others. The application deadline is March 31, please visit the website to learn more.
Pemberton Valley Lodge Wins Green Business Award
Pemberton Valley Lodge was recently recognized for its impressive list of green initiatives with the
Successful You "Best Green Business" award, which was presented in late February at the Pan Pacific Vancouver Hotel.
Small Business BC's Successful You Awards (SYA) recognize and celebrate BC entrepreneurs for making important contributions to their local communities and the global economy. For more information about Pemberton Valley Lodge's win, click here.
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