The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce launched an initiative to help refugees and immigrants make valuable business connections. 

B次元官网网址淲hen someone comes to this country, whether as an immigrant or a refugee, there are possibly barriers there because they donB次元官网网址檛 know anybody,B次元官网网址� said chamber CEO Bruce Williams. B次元官网网址淭hey might be bringing a business idea from another country, but they donB次元官网网址檛 necessarily know how to integrate themselves into our business communities.B次元官网网址� 

This initiative, launched Aug. 13 and called the New to Canada program, offers free, two-year chamber memberships to entrepreneurs who have had their permanent residency or citizenship for less than three years. Applicants also need a valid Greater Victoria business licence. 

Membership will allow newcomers to network with established Greater Victoria entrepreneurs, develop their professional network, seek mentorship and access potential clients and customers. 

B次元官网网址淭he goal is to help these new Canadians, these new to Canada people succeed in their business,B次元官网网址� said Williams. 

Greater Victoria is home to a plethora of successful immigrant and refugee entrepreneurs, all of whom contribute to Greater Victoria's economic future.

B次元官网网址淲e know that when people come here to start a business, it helps grow our economy, it diversifies the economy,B次元官网网址� said the CEO. B次元官网网址淢any of them will bring unique ideas that donB次元官网网址檛 already exist here, and some will bring products and services that enhance the existing sectors of business that we have.B次元官网网址� 
 
Find out more about the initiative here: .