SALT SPRING ISLAND REAL ESTATE
with John Cade

BUSINESS AND THE ECONOMY ON SALTSPRING

Many come here for a peaceful retirement in an exceptionally beautiful environment. At he same time, we have a strong business community, supporting a very wide range of economic activity.

The Internet, of course, helps many do just that. One Web Marketing business has clients in Vancouver, Ontario, California and New Zealand and Europe. Several local artists connect with clients worldwide. A supplier of specialized medical equipment has clients in 40 countries. There are, indeed, numerous healthy companies with headquarters here who sell worldwide. Perhaps something like this is an option for you. Many niche-market businesses have complemented existing sales by adding a web site and the use of email.

The majority of businesses on the Island are small owner-operator enterprises with few employees if any, often home based. The major local employers are public service organizations, the hospital, Thrifty's and the Ganges Village Market. These businesses offer few employment opportunities related to growth or staff turnover. The major economic opportunities lie in having, or starting, your own business.

Many make a healthy living serving just the local community and visitors. Summer months bring many tourists and some types of businesses make most of their year’s income during that time. Perhaps that's an option.

Local businesses support each other. There is an increasing move towards self-reliance and sustainability that only increases the health of the community. Again, because of the variety and richness of the local demographic, there is probably more opportunity here than the size of the population might indicate.

Salt Spring is a varied environment that can offer you a peaceful retirement or participation in a vibrant business community. You may wish to contact our local Chamber of Commerce for more information.