Two new pieces of research note that the Kimberley business environment is positive and improving, though there are opportunities for improvement, a city press release suggests.

The Survey of Kimberley Businesses and the Secret Investor Assessment were completed as part of the city’s role in undertaking research that informs municipal activities and informs businesses’ investment decisions.

Under the terms of their 2012-2014 Fee-for-Service Agreement with the city, the Kimberley and District Chamber of Commerce surveyed 52 business owners from August 2013 – January 2014. The questions and survey methodology were based on tools developed by the Rural Development Institute at Selkirk College and adapted to the Kimberley context.

Results suggest that perceptions of the local business environment were positive and the future outlook is good. Forty per cent of respondents had plans to expand operations in Kimberley and 50% anticipate sales growth equal to or greater than 10% in the next year. Accessing financing, skilled staff, and new markets were identified as the top constraints.

The Secret Investor Assessment (SIA) was completed through Kimberley’s membership in Invest Kootenay (IK). IK is a regional partnership of Kootenay-region communities who have joined forces to attract, retain, and expand business investment in their communities.

Conducted this July, the SEA suggests that Kimberley is well positioned to woo investors.

According to Gerri Brightwell, who posed as a potential investor looking around, Kimberley is “a community that is invigorated and optimistic, with a strong focus on young families… I did not have a single negative conversation… there is strong awareness about where to seek business information.”

Mayor Ron McRae agrees. “Kimberley is a good place to be doing business. This research suggests we’re headed in the right direction,” he said.

To view the Reports visit www.investkimberley.com/business-environment

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