there are lots of opportunities for business as long as it’s something that works harmoniously with what’s here already

Now in their 12th year in business, Wilde and Sparrow () attracts a loyal following of local residents and tourists: “Everyone from teenage girls to older, stylish women who want something unique and on trend and not from the mall,” says Shirra Wall, who co-owns the boutique with Trish Smith.

There's nothing I want in my life that I can't get right here

Pixton Comics is “one of 20 companies driving innovation, and changing the way we use the Internet.” says Backbone Magazine and KPMG. The award-winning company is doing so from Qualicum Beach, B.C.

There’s tons of opportunity in the Parksville-Qualicum Beach region

Jenny Hughes, the founder of Me & You Manufacturing Co., a company that designs and sells reusable, fashionable shopping bags, believes in the power of good timing. She started in 2004 after noticing a lack of stylish, reusable shopping bags in the Canadian market. Six months later, municipalities starting talking about banning plastic bags. Customers and the media came calling in droves.

Spending time in nature is sacred. Here it’s literally right outside your door

Caroline Hoste’s company Hello Stranger Creative arranged for DJ Flux Pavilion to remix the theme tune for the new Star Wars Rebels TV Series, which debuted October, 2014 on Disney XD.

I like to jump on my paddleboard and go fishing

Jared Shaw is a self described tech entrepreneur, growth hacker and analytics junkie. Essentially he looks for ways to help companies grow into new and emerging markets. Shaw works remotely from my home/office in Qualicum Beach and was involved in launching the new Digital Media Studio in Qualicum Beach.

It’s easier to start a business here than people think

Hip clothing with an L.A. vibe. That’s how Megan Richardson of MOD Apparel describes her Qualicum Beach store. She opened it in 2011 after identifying a need for MOD’s distinctive offerings. Since then, she’s built a loyal local following as well as customers from Port Alberni, Campbell River, Victoria and Vancouver.

We just wanted to get out and start a new life

Rusty Joerin is a supply management consultant who provides procurement and supply management services to clients across Canada. He runs his business, Woodsgift Enterprises, from his home office in Qualicum Beach.“I was a young 24-year-old traveling around with my wife and we just liked this area. We were living in downtown Vancouver and really just wanted to get out and start a life.”