• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • Connect!
    • Contact LIFT
    • Email Newsletter
    • VI Business Group (FB)
    • VI Business Group (LinkedIn)
    • LIFT Member Group (FB)
  • Events
    • BizOnDeck
    • Event News
LIFT Startups

LIFT Startups

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

  • About
  • Coworking
  • Ecosystem
    • Chamber of Commerce
    • Membership & Networking Groups
    • Economic Development Organization
    • Business Improvement Association
    • Employment Support
    • Small Business Support
    • News
    • Coworking Space
  • Blog

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

Get @reshare_app • @cr_artgallery 📣 The Campbell R Get @reshare_app • @cr_artgallery 📣 The Campbell River Art Gallery is 
hiring an Executive Director! 📣

The Campbell River Art Gallery (CRAG) is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and community-minded Executive Director to lead one of Vancouver Island’s northernmost contemporary public art galleries
 into its next chapter.

This is an opportunity for a thoughtful and ambitious cultural leader to help shape the future of a growing institution deeply connected to artists, community, and contemporary social dialogue.

See our job posting for more details:  https://www.crartgallery.ca/executive-director/ 
(Link in bio!)

Applications will begin being reviewed on June 1, 2026, 
and the position will remain open until filled.

#crartgallery #campbellriver #downtowncampbellriver #explorecampbellriver #vanisle vancouverisland vancouverisawesome artgallery bcartgallery
Get @reshare_app • @ltbleadership I am so excited Get @reshare_app • @ltbleadership I am so excited to share this with you.

The Leadership Fundamentals Online Course is built around the nine fundamentals every leader needs: positivity, resilience, healthy competition, team building, productivity, community, psychological safety, relationship intelligence, and bringing out the best in yourself and others.

Here’s the part I love most:  You choose how to take it.

Want the full experience? Work through all nine modules and walk away with a complete leadership toolkit. Just want to dig into one area? Pick a single module - psychological safety, resilience, team building, whichever one speaks to where you are right now - and go deep on that.

This program is for individuals who want to grow as leaders, and for organizations ready to invest in their people. It’s self-paced, packed with real stories, practical tools, and exercises you can use right away.

Whether you’re leading a team, running your own business, or simply wanting to show up better at work and at home -  there’s something here for you.

Ready to start learning? Visit: ltbleadership.com

**USE PROMOCODE: WELCOME100 for a MAJOR introductory discount.**
Valid Until Tuesday, May 19.

#vancouverislandbusiness #vancouverislandbusinesswomen #comoxvalleybusiness #comoxvalleybusinesswomen
Get @reshare_app • @sparkhouse.coworking 📣 Calling Get @reshare_app • @sparkhouse.coworking 📣 Calling all home businesses! You can escape the home office and lock-in 🔒 to ‘work mode’ by coworking at our downtown Parksville space. Bring your laptop and use our reliable high-speed wifi to make the most of your workday. Spark House can also be used for small, in-person meetings in an open-plan environment if you prefer face-to-face catch-ups over glitchy online calls. Elevate your workday experience at Spark House Coworking today. 
.
.
.
.
#parksville #qualicumbeach #coworking
Get @reshare_app • @nanaimochamber 🚨 Applications Get @reshare_app • @nanaimochamber 🚨 Applications Close on May 15, 2026 | Chief Executive Officer Opportunity 🚨

The Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce is seeking a visionary and community-minded Chief Executive Officer to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth, advocacy, and impact.
This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside local businesses, community leaders, and stakeholders to help shape the economic future of Nanaimo and the region.
We are looking for a strategic leader who is passionate about business excellence, collaboration, and building strong community connections.
If you are ready to lead with purpose and make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply.
Applications close on May 15, 2026.
How to Apply: Please send your cover letter and resume by May 15th, 2026 with the subject line “CEO – Nanaimo Chamber” to recruitment@nanaimochamber.bc.ca 

#Leadership #CEOOpportunity #Nanaimo #VancouverIsland #BusinessLeadership
Get @reshare_app • @workbcnanaimo Long commutes. E Get @reshare_app • @workbcnanaimo Long commutes. Endless applications. Trying to figure out your next step. Job searching can feel overwhelming.

You don’t have to navigate it alone. WorkBC Centre can help with job search support, career planning, training opportunities, and more.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your employment journey.

#WorkBCCentre #JobSearchSupport #CareerDevelopment #EmploymentSupport
Get @reshare_app • @builtforchange.ca We’re hostin Get @reshare_app • @builtforchange.ca We’re hosting a monthly breakfast conversation.

Monthly topics. Always centred on the future of work.
This month: AI + the future of work.

No speaker. No pitches. Just a facilitated conversation.

One hour, everyone has something to contribute.

📅 Friday, May 29 | 7:30–8:30AM
📍 Gather Comox | $15

Space is limited so registration is required.

(Invite a founder friend or leader who’s asking the same questions.).
Get @reshare_app • @victoriachamber An evening of Get @reshare_app • @victoriachamber An evening of celebration, connection, and community. ✨ 

The 2026 Greater Victoria Business Awards are just weeks away - and tickets are going fast! 🏆 

Join us on June 11 for an unforgettable night celebrating the businesses and leaders shaping our region. From lively receptions and meaningful networking to an inspiring Awards Ceremony, this is the night where Greater Victoria’s business community comes together. 

⭐ Get your tickets now at the link in our bio!

Thank you to our presenting sponsors @timescolonist and @royalroadsu. 

🗓️ Thursday, June 11 
⏰ 7:00–11:00pm 
📍 Victoria Conference Centre 

#VicBizAwards2026 #VictoriaChamber #ChamberVicBC #VictoriaBC
Get @reshare_app • @communityfuturesbc 🔴 Red Dress Get @reshare_app • @communityfuturesbc 🔴 Red Dress Day | May 5th
On May 5th, we recognize Red Dress Day — a national day of remembrance and action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S).

Originating from Métis artist Jaime Black’s REDress Project, this powerful visual movement calls attention to the lives stolen and the urgent need to address systemic violence and injustice faced by Indigenous communities across Canada.

As part of our ongoing commitment to reconciliation, we will be wearing red on May 5th. We do so in solidarity and remembrance — to honour those lost, support survivors, and call for meaningful change.

#RedDressDay #MMIWG2S #Reconciliation #CommunityFutures #WearRed HonourThem
Get @reshare_app • @camosun Are you interested in Get @reshare_app • @camosun Are you interested in one or more of these Camosun College programs? 

Information sessions are a great way to learn more and have your questions answered by faculty and staff. No registration required (unless otherwise stated)! 

To learn more about each event and access the Zoom link for online sessions, visit camosun.ca/events. Link is in the bio!

[info-sessions, college programs, Camosun College programs ]

#victoriabc #vancouverislandeducation
Get @reshare_app • @commercialstreetnightmarket We Get @reshare_app • @commercialstreetnightmarket We’re hiring a Special Events Organizer through the Canada Summer Jobs program 🎉

Love events, community, and bringing people together? This role is all about helping plan and run some of Nanaimo’s favourite experiences.

Eligibility: Applicants must be 15–30 years old and be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or have refugee status in Canada.

Apply by May 15 - email your resume and cover letter to liettem@nanaimochamber.bc.ca 📩

#nanaimochamber #nanaimobusiness #commercialstreetnightmarket #nanaimoevents #specialeventsorganizer
Get @reshare_app • @50thparallelpr We just wrapped Get @reshare_app • @50thparallelpr We just wrapped the second session of our spring Lead with Clarity cohort.

Each session continues to reinforce the demand we’re seeing for leadership spaces that prioritize intentionality and authenticity. Participants consistently show up with a willingness to engage honestly and openly, setting a powerful tone for meaningful dialogue and growth.

If you feel the pull to refine how you lead and communicate, our waitlist for our September session is now open

Reserve your seat — contact us in our link in bio. We look forward to supporting you and your work this fall.

#vancouverislandbusiness #vancouverislandbusinesswomen
Get @reshare_app • @downtowncourtenay Be part of M Get @reshare_app • @downtowncourtenay Be part of Market Day 2026 in Downtown Courtenay!

Registration is officially open for vendors and food trucks!

Join us for a full day of community, shopping, food, and entertainment in the heart of the Comox Valley.

Saturday, July 25
9AM – 5PM

Whether you’re serving up something delicious or showcasing your products, we want you there.

Apply now on our website — spaces are limited!

www.downtowncourtenay.com

#comoxvalleybusiness #downtowncourtenay
Get @reshare_app • @iwist_org Join women in STEM a Get @reshare_app • @iwist_org Join women in STEM and allies for drinks, appies and connections. Link in bio to register. Anticipating actual patio time!

#victoriabusiness
Get @reshare_app • @cityofcourtenay 👉 We’re hiring Get @reshare_app • @cityofcourtenay 👉 We’re hiring a Transportation Technologist in the Operational Services department.
This is a temporary full-time union position (Competition #26027).

If you have experience in transportation or traffic engineering and enjoy working on projects that support safe and efficient road networks, we’d love to hear from you.

Learn more, and apply online at courtenay.ca/jobs

#comoxvalley #courtenaybc #comoxvalleyjobs
Get @reshare_app • @victoriachamber Three great Bu Get @reshare_app • @victoriachamber Three great Business Leader events, one simple registration! 

We’re looking ahead to a busy next couple of weeks, and we’d love to see you join us as we host a number of events tied closely to Chamber advocacy priorities, strategic partnerships and economic growth for our region. 

Bundle your tickets and save! Combo pricing is available for these upcoming Business Leader events: 

🗓️ Apr 24: The Chamber’s AGM – Breakfast with the Minister of Public Safety, @ninakriegerbc, Sponsored by @fortisbc 

🗓️ May 5: Victoria Defence Spending – Lunch with Rear-Admiral David Patchell, Sponsored by @deloittecanada 

🗓️ May 15: BDC’s Economic Update 2026 – Navigating Uncertainty and Building What’s Next, Sponsored by @bdc_ca 

🎟️ Register now: Link in bio for Events Calendar

*Combo pricing is available as a ticket option on the Event Pages. Reach our team at chamber@victoriachamber.ca for any inquiries.

#VictoriaChamber #ChamberVicBC #YYJBiz #victoriabcbusiness
Get @reshare_app • @tofinochamber We are thrilled Get @reshare_app • @tofinochamber We are thrilled to announce a new program in collaboration with the Canadian Purpose Economy Project (CPEP). The Tofino Chamber invites you to join the Vancouver Island Purpose & Business Collaborative (VIPBC), designed to help you build trust, engage employees, grow resilience in a changing economy, and strengthen your impact and bottom line.
Whether you’re just getting started or already leading with purpose, this program offers practical tools, expert guidance, and a Vancouver Island community of business leaders to support your learning and strengthen your business and its impact. 
What’s included:
✨On-Demand Course (Free)
✨Live Webinar Series with office hours ($25 for chamber members)
✨Community of Practice (Launching 2027)

Learn more and register at tofinochamber.org/vipbc

#tofino #tofinobusiness
Get @reshare_app • @comoxvalleywbn Mark your calen Get @reshare_app • @comoxvalleywbn Mark your calendars - our AGM is coming up on Wednesday, May 13 at 7:15 pm at the Crown Isle Resort Ballroom, 399 Clubhouse Dr, Courtenay. We’d love to see you there!
 
Please note that the AGM follows a dinner, so if you’d like to attend the meeting portion only, you’re welcome to arrive after dinner without needing to purchase a ticket.
 
We’re also looking for passionate people to help shape the future of our organization. Please reach out before the meeting for more information. It’s a wonderful way to make a real difference and be part of a fantastic team!

#comoxvalleybusiness #comoxvalley
Get @reshare_app • @northislandemployment Jobseeke Get @reshare_app • @northislandemployment Jobseeker or Employer in Port McNeill?

Drop by the Community Futures Mt. Waddington office at 311 Hemlock Street in Port McNeill on Wednesday, April 22, between 11 am-2 pm and have a casual chat with a WorkBC Centre-North Island team member.

It’s a great opportunity to learn about initiatives that are in place to help with tariff impacts, ways your local WorkBC Centre can help job seekers find work, and how they can also help ensure local employers are also supported in these challenging times.

#portmcneill #portmcneillbusiness
Get @reshare_app • @igniteevents_vi Have you gotte Get @reshare_app • @igniteevents_vi Have you gotten your ticket for IGNITE yet?!

You won’t want to miss this 🔥 

Join us at Crown Isle Resort on April 22nd for a one-day immersive experience for ambitious entrepreneurs ready to spark growth, connection, & momentum. Throughout the day, you’ll experience a dynamic lineup of speakers and panelists sharing real-world insight across topics including business growth, visibility, finances, leadership, and personal development. The event is intentionally designed to balance practical learning with meaningful connection.

Several of our speakers are WBN members! Come out and support these fantastic individuals ✨

Grab your tickets at https://ignite-summit-vancouver-island.eventbrite.ca (link in our bio or comment IGNITE)

#vancouverislandbusiness #comoxvalleybusiness
Get @reshare_app • comoxvalleychamber Spring has s Get @reshare_app • comoxvalleychamber Spring has sprung, and so has our new lineup of Chamber events🌷 

Join us over the next few weeks for networking, learning, and community connection:

April 16 -  Help yourself to our breakfast by Big Foot Donuts, and learn best practices for hiring and retaining staff from TKS Business Consulting.

April 23 - Join us at 40 Knotts and help elect the next Board of Directors and shape the year ahead. Members only. 

May 1 -  Take part in our brand new golf tournament and play to win some incredible prizes. Every participant gets a door prize!

Register for all events at comoxvalleychamber.com/events

#BuildingGoodBusiness #BuildingGreatCommunity
#comoxvalley #chamberofcommerce #comoxvalleybusiness
Follow on Instagram

Footer

Newsletter

gilakas’la čɛčɛ haθɛč, We respectfully acknowledge that we live and work within the unceded traditional territory of the K’ómoks Nation.

Copyright © 2026 LIFT / Vancouver Island, including Victoria, Campbell River, Nanaimo and the Comox Valley.
Privacy Policy / Terms of Use / Site by Mastermynde