The Central Okanagan Advantage

Named the “Best City in BC to Open a Small Business” by the Canadian Federation of Small Businesses, Kelowna and the Central Okanagan combine economic opportunity with unmatched lifestyle.

Where Innovation Grows

As one of Canada’s fastest-growing regions, the Central Okanagan is a hub where innovation meets lifestyle. Strategically located between Vancouver and Calgary, the region offers direct access to major markets, supported by Kelowna International Airport (YLW) and robust transportation infrastructure.

Home to UBC Okanagan and Okanagan College, the region fuels a skilled workforce and drives research, technology, and industry collaboration. Add in a diverse economy, competitive business costs, and four-season recreation, and it’s clear why the Central Okanagan is the place where business growth and quality of life converge.

Regional Advantages

Strong and Diverse Economy

From aerospace components and aviation tech to digital platforms, sustainable consumer goods, world-class wines, and agri-food innovations, the Central Okanagan is home to a vibrant mix of industries driving creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurial success.

Access to Talent

The Central Okanagan is Canada’s fastest-growing metro area, with population growth consistently outpacing provincial and national averages. This growth is supported by a strong labour force and talent pipeline, thanks to UBC Okanagan and Okanagan College, two institutions fueling innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry-ready graduat

Entrepreneurial Region

The Central Okanagan is one of Canada’s most supportive regions for entrepreneurs, offering a collaborative business environment, competitive taxes, and tailored support. With groups like Accelerate Okanagan, COEDC, and a strong service network, the region fosters innovation and business growth.

Location & Connectivity

Strategically located between Vancouver and Calgary in B.C.’s Southern Interior, the Central Okanagan offers direct access to major Western Canadian markets and over 14 million people within a day’s drive. With global connectivity through Kelowna International Airport – Canada’s 10th busiest – the region is an ideal base for regional operations and international business events.
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Quality of Life

The Central Okanagan fosters a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, supported by a collaborative business environment, competitive tax structure, and tailored support services. Organizations like Accelerate Okanagan, the COEDC, and a network of service providers help drive innovation and growth for startups and established businesses alike.

Talent Pipline

UBC Okanagan brings world-class research, innovation, and academic excellence to the region, fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs, scientists, and leaders. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement, UBCO contributes significantly to the Central Okanagan’s innovation ecosystem and long-term economic growth.

Okanagan College plays a key role in preparing the region’s workforce through hands-on, industry-aligned training in areas such as trades, engineering technologies, viticulture, animation, and commercial aviation. Its close ties to local employers ensure graduates are job-ready and equipped to meet the evolving needs of the Central Okanagan’s economy.

Key Sectors

Indigenous Business

Indigenous Business

Thriving through collaborative community building

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Clean Tech

Clean Tech

BC’s cleantech sector, ranking in the top 10 globally, contributed $11B to its GDP

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Manufacturing

Manufacturing

From jet components to compostable cell phone cases, 609 firms are making it happen.

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Aerospace

Aerospace

Canada’s #1 commercial MRO is based in Kelowna along with 18% of the province’s industry.

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Viticulture

Viticulture

84% of BC’s total vineyard acreage is planted here, generating a $2.8 billion impact.

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Agriculture

Agriculture

From orchards to dairy, this rich sector has been feeding BC’s economy for 160 years.

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Digital

Digital

$3.10 billion in everything from games and animation to cybersecurity and medtech.

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Post Secondary

Post Secondary

Universities and Colleges are nurturing creativity and fostering community engagement.

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Communities

Home to over 222,000 residents, the Central Okanagan encompasses seven distinct but closely connect communities, each contributing to a diverse economy, collaborative business environment, and exceptional quality of life. Together, they form a region known for innovation, entrepreneurship, and opportunity.

Economic Profile

Economic Profile

Learn more about the economic strengths, key industries, growth opportunities and vibrant communities in the region, and discover what makes it such a compelling place for investment, innovation and long term growth.

Central Okanagan Lands Inventory Tool

The Employment Lands Inventory Tool lets you explore commercial and industrial lands in the Central Okanagan. Review sites, zoning and infrastructure to spot new opportunities. A companion report shares key trends and future demand.

Connect with Us

From startups to expansions to thought leaders, we can help with everything you need to make locating your business or event here fast and easy.

The Okanagan