The Township of Esquimalt has introduced a new digital platform aimed at strengthening its economic future. The website, WhyEsquimalt.ca, is designed to attract investors, support local businesses, and highlight the community’s strengths as a place to live, work, and grow.
The new platform provides a central hub for businesses, entrepreneurs, and potential investors who want to learn about opportunities in Esquimalt. It includes a business directory, personal stories from community members, economic data, and an interactive profile dashboard that showcases the township’s assets.
Local leaders say the website will make it easier for businesses to access support programs and resources. Terése Finegan, Manager of Economic Development, explained that the goal is to give both current and future businesses a clear starting point. She noted that the platform is built to streamline access to licenses, business programs, and key information needed to grow in Esquimalt.
The launch is part of the township’s 2023–2025 Economic Development Action Plan, which identified “economic development storytelling” as a top priority. By providing a dedicated space to share Esquimalt’s story, the township aims to strengthen its identity and showcase why it is an attractive destination for investment.
Mayor Barbara Desjardins emphasized that the platform is more than just an information hub. She described storytelling as a powerful tool to shape community identity. By highlighting local businesses, quality of life, and opportunities, the website helps position Esquimalt as a vibrant and welcoming place.
Esquimalt is home to a diverse mix of businesses, from small family-owned shops to innovative startups. The website’s content reflects this diversity, offering real stories that show the township’s character and potential. For both residents and visitors, it is a way to see what makes the community unique.
Economic experts often stress that small communities need clear, accessible resources to encourage investment. By centralizing data and making it easy to find, Esquimalt is aligning with best practices in local economic development. The new dashboard allows investors to explore community demographics, workforce trends, and business opportunities at a glance.
In addition to data, the platform offers pathways for entrepreneurs who are just starting out. Guidance on licensing, regulations, and available supports is clearly presented. This helps reduce barriers for those looking to launch or expand in the township.
The website is not a stand-alone project but part of a broader vision for Esquimalt’s future. The 2023–2025 action plan outlines goals such as attracting new industries, supporting local jobs, and building a strong reputation as a community of opportunity. The launch of WhyEsquimalt.ca is a direct step in that direction.
Officials believe that telling Esquimalt’s story in a clear and engaging way will set the township apart. By combining hard data with personal stories, the platform balances facts with community spirit. This mix is expected to appeal to both investors seeking reliable information and entrepreneurs looking for inspiration.
Esquimalt’s location, lifestyle, and strong sense of community are key parts of its economic appeal. By featuring these qualities, the website supports not only business attraction but also long-term community pride. For residents, it reinforces a shared identity; for newcomers, it highlights reasons to invest and settle in the area.
The township’s leadership sees the launch as a milestone. With WhyEsquimalt.ca now live, businesses and investors have a single access point to explore opportunities and connect with local support. It is both a practical tool and a symbol of Esquimalt’s commitment to building a thriving, sustainable future.
