I relocated from Toronto to Prince George approximately six years ago, and I’m still very pleased with that decision. Initially, I wasn’t certain if Prince George would become my permanent residence, but now I’m quite confident, and here’s why: Last year, my husband and I purchased a house here, which was a significant achievement because I didn’t expect to own a home before turning 30. The strong sense of community was a major factor in our decision to live here. We both have secure jobs with good salaries, we genuinely appreciate Prince George, and we want it to prosper. It’s invigorating to feel like we are an integral part of this city and to connect with others who share the same sentiment.
Since I completed college, I’ve aspired to establish my own business. I’m fond of the notion of starting something from the ground up and witnessing its growth. Therefore, last year, I launched my own business as a side project, and during that period, I’ve observed some distinct advantages of running a business in Prince George.
Prince George is strategically located as it serves as the intersection of two significant highways, Highway 16 and Highway 97. This facilitates access to other regions of British Columbia, such as the Interior and the North. For businesses, this can lead to cost savings. Instead of bringing in experts from distant places like Vancouver, Edmonton, or Calgary, they can hire local professionals in Prince George who can conveniently travel to the job site.
Being situated in a smaller community like Prince George also presents another advantage. There is less competition, particularly in fields requiring technical skills. With fewer professionals in this domain, there are also fewer companies offering the same services. This provides individuals and businesses with a better opportunity to specialize and excel in their specific niche.
Despite its smaller size, Prince George offers a wealth of resources and networking opportunities. There are intelligent and motivated entrepreneurs who can offer guidance and support. Additionally, organizations like Community Futures Fraser Fort George, SupportPG, and Futurpreneur Canada understand the distinctive advantages and challenges of operating a business in a small city. Being an entrepreneur is challenging, so having a supportive community can make a significant difference.
It’s important to remember that what works for one company may not work for another. Therefore, if you’re considering starting a business, take Prince George into consideration and leverage the available resources.
