Important Update
Vancouver Economic Commission is in the process of a phased decommissioning and will be replaced by a new Business and Economy Office within the City Manager’s Office at the City of Vancouver. We sincerely thank all partners, program attendees, local businesses and alumni staff for your collaboration and support over the years and for your patience during this transition.
For immediate support please contact info@vancouvereconomic.com
For media enquiries please contact media@vancouver.ca
Our Purpose
VEC’s purpose is to build a prosperous, inclusive, zero-carbon and resilient local economy, competitively positioned in the global market.
Founded in 1995, the Vancouver Economic Commission (VEC) serves one of the world’s fastest-growing, diversified and low-carbon economies. Our team works to strengthen Vancouver’s economic future by providing programming, supporting local companies, advising business leaders and policymakers, monitoring the region’s economic health, and conducting and publishing leading-edge industry research.
VEC is an external agency of the City of Vancouver governed by the Societies Act.
VEC respectfully acknowledges that it is located and operates on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ / sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
Our pledges to Vancouver
VEC’s services and activities are guided and shaped by our commitment to four corporate pledges:
Local Focus, Local Support
Prioritizing Climate Action
Meaningful Reconciliation
Prosperity for All
Learn more about our pledges: Corporate Plan 2022
What we do
VEC focuses on issues-based market and economic transformation. We provide industry-agnostic services and support to business, investor, and worker communities to help achieve a resilient, inclusive, zero-carbon economy for all.
Research, analysis and new metrics
VEC collaborates on and publishes industry data and research on key opportunities and challenges for businesses, investors, policy makers and job seekers. We use research as an engine to inform policymaking and power tactics for market transformation.
Talent and inclusive workforce development
VEC works in partnership with industry and policymakers to identify and fill professional talent gaps to sustain Vancouver’s economic growth, while working with partners to generate well-paying local jobs. We are committed to growing an inclusive and diverse workforce.
Support for local entrepreneurs
VEC hosts and supports numerous programs, workshops and events that provide local companies with business-to-business connections, mentorship opportunities, and insights into risk-proofing businesses.
Capital access and impact investing
VEC helps local businesses become ready and able to access capital at all stages of fund-raising by organizing business-to-business matchmaking, hosting deal-flow events and connecting companies to other funding opportunities.
Targeted high-impact investment support
VEC welcomes trade delegations and collaborates with regional partners on targeted cross-border investment initiatives, including assisting international companies with landing and expanding in Vancouver.
Navigating and branding Vancouver
VEC proudly shares Vancouver success stories and collaborates with destination, investment and trade organizations to shape the city’s narrative as a business, employment and investment destination.
