The City of Richmond has been recognized for approaches and initiatives that make it one of Canada’s most business friendly cities.

NAIOP, a North American organization representing the commercial real estate industry, has awarded the City of Richmond with the title of “Most Business Friendly” in its annual Awards for Municipal Excellence.

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) also named Richmond as the “One to Watch” in its 2024 Golden Scissors Awards for the MyBusiness and MyPermit online service portals that reduce administrative burden and streamline how businesses interact with the City.

Photo caption: Members of Richmond City Council receive the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) Golden Scissors Award. (Left to right) Cllr. Chak Au; Cllr. Carol Day; Jairo Yunis, Economist, CFIB; Cllr. Michael Wolfe; Mayor Malcolm Brodie; Cllr. Andy Hobbs; Emily Boston, Policy Analyst, CFIB; Cllr. Alexa Loo; Cllr. Bill McNulty; Cllr. Laura Gillanders.

The NAIOP award is based on input to its 2023 annual Cost of Business Survey highlighting municipalities that have excelled in creating positive business environments. The City received the award because its fees and approval timelines for industrial development encourage the creation of industrial space, which supports and welcomes local businesses and the economy. 

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) “One to Watch” Golden Scissors Award recognizes the impact the MyBusiness and MyPermit portals play in reducing red tape. The portals streamline the City licensing and permit process by providing an online self-service option that eliminates the need for many applicants to apply in person. MyBusiness has already seen over 7,000 businesses use the platform in its first year, while the MyPermit online portal enables the submission and approval of basic plumbing, gas and sprinkler system trade permits 24/7.