City manager update: May 2026

Small businesses are the heart of Vancouver's economy, representing 95% of businesses in our community. Supporting their success is one of the most direct ways we invest in a resilient, locally rooted community.

This month, we're expanding that support by hosting and partnering on a series of free workshops and events designed to help entrepreneurs move from idea to action.

Five-Year Economic Development Strategy

These efforts reflect the priorities outlined in our Five-Year Economic Development Strategy adopted last year. A plan that outlines our commitment to creating clear, accessible pathways for small businesses to start up and grow in Vancouver.

This year, we're starting to deliver on that commitment, with new programs to help small businesses access capital or grow in our community:

• Revolving Loan Fund: Launching this summer, this program will offer $1.2 million in loans to small businesses in the Fourth Plain Investment area, along with an additional $1.2 million in matching funds for small businesses across the city that lack access to traditional financing.
• Small Business Resiliency Grants: A new $300,000 grant program to support small businesses facing economic challenges in the Fourth Plain for All community investment area.
• Product-to-Market Program: Will invest $250,000 to help local consumer product entrepreneurs - especially those from underserved communities - grow by expanding access to retail, e-commerce, and mobile vending opportunities. A Request for Proposals seeking qualified organizations to administer the new program will be released this month.

Support small

Each of us plays a role in the success of our small businesses.

This month, consider holding your next meeting at a locally owned coffee shop, shopping at the Farmers Market, or exploring the diverse restaurants scene on Fourth Plain.

These everyday choices make a meaningful difference for the businesses that help define Vancouver.