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LIFT Startups

LIFT Startups

A new way to market and network your local Vancouver Island business!

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Vancouver Island Grassroots Entrepreneur Network

community – connection – opportunity – empowerment

The myth of the individual entrepreneur is just that – a myth. Whatever you call yourself – a business owner, creator, founder, innovator or entrepreneur – research shows that we do better when we work together and support each other: when we are part of a community of like-minded people.

CONTACT US

“If your run your own business, and especially if you’re new to the valley, LIFT is essential for your network.”

—ARZEENA HAMIR

Connect with us.

Led by Leif Jason, LIFT is a passion project focused on growing an inclusive entrepreneurial community on Vancouver Island. We want to help you to grow your business and have fun doing it.

“LIFT has been a great part of establishing an entrepreneurial community that has been so beneficial not only for me but hundreds of others! Always great event, parties, online influence.”

—Jabin Postal

Inclusive

Whether you head up a business with 50 employees or you are a solopreneur; whether your product or service is unique or there are others offering similar things; whether you are just starting out or have been in business for 10+ years; whether you’re an introvert or extrovert…

If you’re community minded, ready to grow personally and professionally, and want to surround yourself with great people, you’re a good fit for LIFT.

Innovative

If traditional networking and the idea of handing out business cards to strangers while you make small talk has you running for the hills, well we get it! Time to adjust how you think about networking.

In LIFT you get to know people through innovative facilitated events and discussion, where we work together on real businesses and real issues. We guide and support each other while building real relationships and learning valuable skills. This is not small talk, it’s REAL talk.

“This group is a great place to come if you want to be surrounded with big thinkers. It’s unique because it’s a very collaborative and supportive atmosphere. Come on out and see what it’s like!!”

—Amy Englemark

liftstartups

Vancouver Island Local Business Network
#WeAreVanIsl ✊#networkingbetter
By @mastermynde @humannaturedevelopment

Get @reshare_app • @vialliance Much of what we eat Get @reshare_app • @vialliance Much of what we eat on Vancouver Island comes from the mainland - but industry leaders say it’s time to grow local, resilient food systems.

At the VIEA ‘State of the Island’ Economic Summit, experts discussed how supporting local farms, fisheries, and food processors can boost food sovereignty, jobs, and community connection. Vancouver Island’s small-scale, diverse farms and collaborative networks offer unique opportunities for value-added products, micro-entrepreneurship, and stronger local food economies.

Collaboration, policy support, and long-term planning are key to building a food system that works for everyone.

Thanks to panelists Sabrina Crowley, Owner of Casanova Seafoods; Kent Mullinix, Director of the Institute for Sustainable Food Systems at Kwantlen Polytechnic; James Donaldson, CEO of the BC Food & Beverage Association; Gaby Wickstrom, General Manager of Namgis Business Development Corp.; and Maurita Prato, executive director of LUSH Valley Food Action Society for participating.

Also thanks to Karl Yu, Nanaimo News Bulletin for covering this important conversation!

Link to news and media in our bio to read more.

Photo Credit @dirk.heydemann 

#VIEA #VIEASummit #VancouverIsland #LocalFood #FoodSov.reignty #EatLocal #SustainableFood #IslandGood #SupportLocal #FarmToTable #FoodSystems #CommunityFood #LocalFarms #SeafoodSustainability #IslandEconomy #SustainableLiving #FoodSecurity
Get @reshare_app • @gathercomox Workshop Layout ✨ Get @reshare_app • @gathercomox Workshop Layout ✨
Gather was made to showcase the many cool makers, thinkers, and creatives in the Comox Valley and beyond.

With flexible layouts from clustered tables to open central workspaces it’s the perfect place for hands-on learning, mindful gatherings, and inspired collaboration. 

Book your next workshop @gathercomox 
Visit link in Bio 💚

#GatherComox #WorkshopsAtGather #CreativeCommunity #HostAtGather #ComoxValleyEvents #GatherTogether #MakersAndThinkers
Get @reshare_app • @tofinochamber The Business Exc Get @reshare_app • @tofinochamber The Business Excellence Awards are back! 🎉
Nominations are officially open. From now until November 30, we’re asking YOU to tell us: who deserves recognition?

How to nominate: Follow the link in bio and fill out a quick form (takes 5 minutes).

Who can you nominate? Any business operating in the Tofino Region.

Do you need to be a Chamber member? Nope! Anyone can nominate.

💼 Business Leader of the Year 
🏆 Business of the Year 
🌱 Small Business of the Year 
⭐ Employee of the Year 
✨ New Business of the Year 
❤️ Non-Profit of the Year 
🌿 Green Business of the Year 
🤝 Customer Service Excellence Award 
👥 Employer of the Year

We have a very special local feature artist this year, can you take a guess? Make sure your following to find out more about this years theme!

Share with your friends. Let’s spread the word and recognize the businesses that make this community so amazing.

Nominations close November 30. 

Gala: February 26, 2026 🎊
Early bird tickets now on sale: $95 (save $30 until Jan 15!) 
Secure your spot: Visit link in bio

#TofinoBusinessAwards #TofinnoChamber #BusinessExcellence #RenewalByDesign #SupportLocal #TofinoBC
Get @reshare_app • @comoxvalleywbn Welcome to the Get @reshare_app • @comoxvalleywbn Welcome to the WBN Marketplace 2025
📅 Date: November 8th from 1pm-5pm
📍 Location: Crown Isle Resort
Over the next few weeks, we’ll be introducing you to our amazing WBN Members who will be our vendors at the Marketplace!

Featured Vendor: VI Portraits
Fine art portrait photography.
Visit VI Portraits at the WBN Marketplace or explore online: https://www.viportraits.com/

#WBNMarketplace #SupportLocal #WomenInBusiness #VIPortraits
Get @reshare_app • comoxvalleychamber Imagine your Get @reshare_app • comoxvalleychamber Imagine your team feeling more aligned, motivated, and moving together toward your vision. Make that a reality at our next breakfast speaker series, Nov 20 at Bites & Insights. Get your spot now & fuel your business for what’s next. 
#comoxvalleychamber  #BusinessBreakfast #LeadershipTools #bitesandinsights
Get @reshare_app • @thesulis.co (Courtenay) 𝗣𝗶𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿 Get @reshare_app • @thesulis.co (Courtenay) 𝗣𝗶𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀… 

A room full of women, not just networking, yet rising together.

We’re activating healing, reigniting joy, and redefining what it means to gather. 

It’s more than a women’s group, it’s a movement. 

A space where collaboration fuels confidence, where we cheer each other on, and where big dreams are not just welcomed, they’re encouraged. 💛

This is the power of community. This is Sulis Collective. 

Are you ready to step into it? 

#RiseTogether #SulisCollective #WomenSupportingWomen #Community
Get @reshare_app • @tofinochamber The State of Bus Get @reshare_app • @tofinochamber The State of Business in Tofino: Insights, Challenges + Opportunities. What’s driving growth—and what’s holding it back?

The Tofino Chamber’s 2025 Business Retention + Expansion (BRE) Summary Report is here, offering a deep dive into the realities of doing business in Tofino today.

📊 Based on 50 in-depth interviews across all seven sectors, the report reveals:
How housing and infrastructure are shaping business decisions
Where leadership and investment are most needed
Opportunities for collaboration and shared solutions
The resilience and optimism that continue to define our business community

This timely snapshot highlights both the enduring appeal of Tofino’s economy and the growing pressures that threaten its sustainability.

Because when local business succeeds, our whole community thrives.

🔗 Explore the full report: https://www.tofinochamber.org/bre
#TofinoBusiness #TofinoChamber #BRE2025 #CommunityEconomy #LocalBusiness
Get @reshare_app • @comoxvalleyarts We’re excited Get @reshare_app • @comoxvalleyarts We’re excited to announce Charlie Karumi (@charliekarumi) as an Incubator Microgrant recipient! Charlie Karumi’s More of That, Please! (@more.of.that_please) brought community voices to life through five pop-up podcast sessions in the Comox Valley, including farmers’ markets and Pulse on the Plaza. Participants shared personal stories, reflections, and local insights, producing dozens of uplifting short-form clips that continue to engage the public online. The project highlighted the energy and positivity of the region, receiving media coverage in the Comox Valley Record and reinforcing the impact of community storytelling. 

For more information about Charlie’s project and other 2025 Microgrant recipients, check out our website: https://comoxvalleyarts.com/programs/incubator-microgrant-program/ 

The Incubator Microgrant Program by CV/Arts is designed to empower artists and practitioners like YOU to create engaging arts experiences for our community. From public art installations to community music programs, we’re here to support a diverse range of initiatives! 

#IncubatorMicrogrant #ComoxValleyArts #CommunityCreativity #LocalArtists #PublicArt #ArtForConnection #CVArts2025
Posted @withregram • @ventureconnectcanada Explore Posted @withregram • @ventureconnectcanada Explore your options for purchasing a business with financing options through our partners at Community Futures. While we do not offer financing, Community Futures offices across Canada do. Find your nearest office and start the journey towards business ownership.

#financing #businessfinancing #businessservices #servicesforbusiness #businessadvising #businessprofessionals
#sellerfinancing #businessowner #businessbuyer #buyingabusiness #sellingabusiness #businessesforsale #businessesforsalecanada
Posted @withregram • @sookechamber Have you cast y Posted @withregram • @sookechamber Have you cast your vote? Don’t miss your chance to support Sooke’s brightest stars!  #SookeExcellence #VoteToday Voting ends Sept 28th!
https://sookeregionchamber.com/business-excellence-awards/

#sooke #sookebc #sookebusiness
Posted @withregram • comoxvalleychamber Final Call Posted @withregram • comoxvalleychamber Final Call: Secure Your Spot at the 2024 Employer Symposium –
What are your top challenges as an employer? Let’s talk solutions over breakfast. 
Unlock the future of work at the 2024 Employer Symposium, where we dive into the cutting-edge technologies and strategies transforming today’s workforce. 
From AI integration to remote work solutions, and from diversity initiatives to modern talent acquisition, this event is designed to empower local businesses to thrive in a rapidly changing economy.
Enjoy insightful presentations, expert panels, and networking opportunities with industry leaders, all while exploring innovations that can fuel your company’s success. 
Plus, connect with attendees at the Tradeshow, hosted in the lobby of Crown Isle Resort throughout the event.
Event proceeds will partially support Comox Valley Ground Search & Rescue, ensuring your participation helps both your business and the community.
Don’t miss out on the knowledge and connections that will shape your business for the future! Register on our website.

https://conta.cc/4eRgNzw
Posted @withregram • @reimaginework We’re Hiring! Posted @withregram • @reimaginework We’re Hiring! Fluorescent is seeking a Marketing Coordinator.

📍 Remote, Canada | 💼 Full-Time | ⏳ 12 Month Term (possibility to extend)

💰 $55,000 - $75,000 annually

🗓️ Apply by November 17, 2024

About Us:
Fluorescent is a remote-first Canadian company leading in digital commerce. We’re all about authenticity, innovation, and collaboration!

What You’ll Do:
- Create product-focused content
- Manage SEO and social media marketing
- Expand our partnership program
- Contribute to marketing strategies + more

What We’re Looking For:
- Marketing or communications experience
- Familiarity with Shopify (bonus!)
- Strong organizational skills
- Excellent communication abilities
- Self-starter with a curiosity for digital tools

Perks:
- 💻 Remote work
- 🏖️ 4 weeks vacation
- 🏥 Benefits after 3 months
- 🕰️ 4-day work week option

Ready to shine with Fluorescent? Comment “let’s talk” for a link to the full and complete position

#JobOpening #MarketingJobs #RemoteWork #DigitalCommerce #BCJOBS #NowHiring
Posted @withregram • @comoxvalleywbn How’s your re Posted @withregram • @comoxvalleywbn How’s your reputation - and the reputation of your business?
Join us with keynote speaker Colleen Dane, from Zinc Communications on November 13th at 40 Knots Winery.

We’re talking about managing your reputation – and the reputation of your business – is important work both in the good times, and the bad times. Learn about communications strategies that can be used to build the reputation you want,  and to preserve it when there are hurdles – including tips for serving as a strong spokesperson.
Colleen specializes in facilitating and creating productive public conversations. This includes leading communications on work that generates significant public interest. She’s learned first-hand about how information and its delivery impacts public discourse. She holds a Bachelor of Journalism and Communications from Carleton University, Certificate of Marketing from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, and certification in International Association of Public Participation (IAP2). As a recovering journalist (Poynter Institute and Jack Webster Foundation fellowships), she loves a tight deadline and challenging issue which makes her an invaluable resource for government and private-sector clients.

Members and guests welcome!
Get your tickets for the November 13th WBN:
https://www.cvwbn.org/store/dinner-meet-up
Posted @withregram • @vialliance The 2024 VIEA ‘St Posted @withregram • @vialliance The 2024 VIEA ‘State of the Island’ Economic Summit Agenda is Now Complete! 

We’re thrilled to announce that the agenda for this year’s Summit is finalized and it’s packed with can’t-miss sessions! 

Join us for: ✅ Insightful discussions ✅ Expert speakers ✅ Key issues shaping Vancouver Island and the rural islands

This event is designed for business leaders, decision-makers, First Nation communities, local governments, and Island collaborators. Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity!

🗓️ Registration closes at 5:00 PM on Wednesday, October 16th. Act fast to secure your spot!

🔗 Link to our bio to explore the agenda and register today!

📷 credit @dirk.heydemann

#VIEA #VIEA2024 #VISummit #VIEASummit  #VIeconomy #VIalliance  #economicsummit #stateoftheislandeconomicsummit #vancouverislandeconomy #islandsummit2024 #VIEASummit #VancouverIsland #Networking
Posted @withregram • @tofinochamber 🌟 Calling all Posted @withregram • @tofinochamber 🌟 Calling all local businesses! 🌟 Join us for the Stronger Together: Joint Advertising Workshop with Tourism Tofino, and discover how collaborative advertising can help your business reach new heights. 

📅 Date: October 16, 2024
📍 Location: The Maq
⏰ Time: 5-6:30 pm

In this interactive workshop, you’ll learn strategies to maximize your marketing impact through joint advertising efforts. 💡 Let’s grow stronger together! 💪

Register now by emailing bre@tofinochamber.org
Details on our events page
Posted @withregram • @victoriachamber Exciting new Posted @withregram • @victoriachamber Exciting news - we’re hiring!

We’re on the lookout for passionate, detail-oriented, and driven individuals to join our team, in two open positions:

⭐ Membership Representative
This role is responsible for driving membership growth and managing advertising sales. Working closely with the Membership Team, the Membership Representative will have a key role in member engagement, member retention, and cancellations. 
📅 Deadline: October 11, 2024

⭐ Administration Assistant
This position involves a range of administrative tasks, including data management, member engagement, and office organization. This role will also provide support to the Membership Team & Events Team, assisting with event preparation and membership communications. 
📅 Deadline: October 18, 2024

💼 These positions are accepting applications via email to operations@victoriachamber.ca. Learn more on The Chamber’s Job Board >>> Head to the link in our bio!

#victoriachamber #chambernetwork #yyjBiz #victoriabc #greatervictoria #yyjjobs #yyj
Posted @withregram • @iwist_org Island Women in Sc Posted @withregram • @iwist_org Island Women in Science and Technology would like to invite you to join them for an inspiring evening with our panel of women in STEM. We are bringing together future innovators from middle school, high school, and post secondary along with professional women in STEM for a candid conversation about their STEM careers.

All are welcome.

Event details:
6:30 - 8:00 pm: Panel discussion
8:00 - 8:30 pm: Networking with STEM professionals and post secondary STEM students

Location: Vic High School, 1260 Grant Street, Victoria, BC

Cost: Free but registration required at iwist.ca/events

Our panelists represent a variety of STEM disciplines and are at different points in their careers:

•	Alison Bird, Seismologist and Liaison & Outreach Officer, Earthquake Early Warning, Natural Resources Canada
•	Michelle Mahovlich, P. Eng, P. GEO, FCSSE, Engineering Consultant and Board Chair, Engineers and Geoscientists BC
•	Sema Hamidi, P. Eng, Project Engineer, @avalonmechanical
•	Jenni Christensen, PhD, RPBio, Founder and CEO, TrichAnalytics Laboratory
•	Emily Murray, UVic Software Engineering student & President, @uvicwecs
•	Kezia Devathasan, PhD student, SEGAL Lab and Program Manager, @inspireuvic
Posted @withregram • @vialliance On this National Posted @withregram • @vialliance On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, @vialliance acknowledges the importance of building meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities. We are committed to working in a good way with Indigenous communities to pursue strategic economic opportunities and partnerships that benefit everyone.

Join us on October 22nd at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre for an Economic Reconciliation Workshop - In partnership with the @nanaimochamber. Facilitator Desiree Baker is joined by keynote speaker Angela von den Hout and panelist Erralyn Joesph, Kear Porttris and Trevor Cootes. Participants will explore the principles of economic reconciliation and learn strategies to support inclusive growth and mutual prosperity. 10:00 am to 3:00 pm includes lunch.

For more information and to register go to https://nanaimochamber.bc.ca/economic-reconciliation-in-the-workplace/

#NationalDayForTruthAndReconciliation #EconomicReconciliation #IndigenousPartnerships #NDTR #TruthAndReconciliation
Posted @withregram • @inputcowork Hey everyone! We Posted @withregram • @inputcowork Hey everyone! We’re thrilled to invite you to our next monthly social event at Input Cowork on October 17th. Come unwind and mingle while enjoying the stunning works of local talents, Denny Provost (the painter with a flair for the vibrant and captivating) and Dustin Rickman (the metal artist whose creations are pure magic).

We’ll have snacks, drinks, food, and music to keep the good times rolling—all free of charge! Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a fun, relaxed evening out, this event is for you. Bring your friends, make new connections, and let’s make it a night to remember!

See you there! 🌟🎨🍹
Posted @withregram • @cvfoodbank Send us a message Posted @withregram • @cvfoodbank Send us a message if you have questions! 

If you are interested and qualified, please send your resume to Dave at executivedirector@comoxvalleyfoodbank.ca. 

We look forward to hearing from you!
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