Entrepreneurial drive and spirit are hallmarks of British Columbia. We attract bright, talented, energetic people from around the world who want to live, work and invest in B.C.

Ten years of fiscal discipline have left our province well positioned to absorb global economic shocks. As the United States and countries in Europe struggle with the aftermath of runaway debt and taxes, investors are giving them a wide berth. British Columbia will capitalize on our fiscal advantage by attracting investors looking for safe harbours in an era of global investment uncertainty. And we reaffirm our commitment to return to balanced budgets and retain low taxes, supporting families and job creators.

Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan takes our strategic competitive advantages and uses them for the benefit of people living across the entire province:

The Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation will seek out and work with entrepreneurs to create new jobs and new economic opportunities. A new Major Investments Office will work with investors proposing significant projects, and through our international trade offices, provide consistent and personalized business relationships and services.

The BC Progress Board will become the Jobs and Investment Board, holding government accountable to clear the way for job creation.

The government will establish an Aboriginal Business and Investment Council to improve relationships and economic opportunities for First Nations peoples. We will also provide investors with the tools they need to engage and partner with B.C. First Nations.

Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan recognizes the critical role of small business in job creation:

We will improve and enhance the existing Small Business Venture Capital Program tax credit, which encourages direct investments in new businesses.

All businesses, large and small, will benefit from investments generating a faster rate of return. We are committing to a transparent and quicker permitting and approval process giving investors a quicker “yes” or “no.”

We will undertake a new initiative – starting with action in the mining sector. Dozens and dozens of companies are waiting for word on mineral exploration permits and current backlogs mean they’re waiting far too long – stalling their potential to create new jobs. We commit to reducing the turnaround time for permits by 80 per cent by August 31, 2012.