Growing Local Success: How Basin Business Advisors Empower Entrepreneurs Across the Columbia Basin

“We see your success. Let us help you grow.”

Across the Columbia Basin, business owners and entrepreneurs are the backbone of our communities. They’re the makers, growers, and innovators shaping the future of our region—one idea, one product, and one connection at a time. But even the most passionate entrepreneur can use a trusted partner along the way—someone who understands both the challenges and opportunities of running a business in this remarkable place.

That’s where the Basin Business Advisors (BBA) Program comes in.

Your Partner in Business Growth

Funded by the Columbia Basin Trust, the Basin Business Advisors Program provides confidential, personalized support to business owners throughout the Columbia Basin region of British Columbia.

Our mission is simple: to strengthen local businesses by helping entrepreneurs build skills, gain clarity, and grow with confidence. Whether you’re planning for growth, facing a new challenge, or exploring opportunities, BBA Advisors bring real-world experience and a collaborative approach to help you move forward.

We also understand that time is one of your most valuable investments — with support from the Trust; time is the only requirement for this opportunity. Every conversation, workshop, and resource is designed to meet you where you are and help you take the next step in your business journey.

[“I’m deeply grateful to the CBT for making this opportunity possible.” -BBA Client]

Practical Guidance, Real Results

Every entrepreneur’s path is unique. That’s why the BBA Program takes a one-on-one, personalized approach. Through individual advisory sessions, tailored learning opportunities, and hands-on tools, the BBA helps business owners make informed decisions and lead with confidence.

Advisors focus on three key areas that drive lasting success:

Financial Literacy – understanding your numbers and using them to make sound business decisions.
Leadership Development – building the confidence and skills to lead effectively and adapt to change.
Strategic Planning and Growth – setting clear goals, mapping priorities, and planning for sustainable expansion.

[“It was exactly what I needed as a business owner — truly the missing piece.” - BBA Client]

Our advisors don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions. They listen, guide, and empower business owners to develop strategies that make sense for their unique goals and circumstances. The results are practical, achievable, and designed to last.

Strengthening Communities, One Business at a Time

Since its inception, the Basin Business Advisors Program has supported thousands of entrepreneurs throughout the Columbia Basin. Each business strengthened through the program contributes to a more vibrant, resilient regional economy — one built by people who believe in the Basin’s future.

From family operations to emerging enterprises, the BBA is proud to stand beside the entrepreneurs who make our region thrive.

[“Denise and Steve were outstanding facilitators: incredibly knowledgeable and exceptionally skilled at sharing that knowledge in a clear, impactful way.” - BBA Client]

Because when local businesses succeed, the entire Basin succeeds.

Fueling Growth for Columbia Basin Businesses

For some entrepreneurs in the Columbia Basin, growth isn’t just a goal — it’s already happening. As businesses expand, hire teams, and scale operations, the challenges become more complex. To support these high-growth companies, the Basin Business Advisors Program offers a specialized stream of support: the BBA Growth Accelerator.

Designed for growth-stage companies with over $1 million in annual revenue, the Growth Accelerator is an eight-month intensive program that helps leaders strengthen strategy, operations, and leadership capacity for the next phase of success.

Participants work closely with a team of seasoned Executives-in-Residence (EIRs) who provide tailored mentorship, strategic insight, and practical tools to help overcome growth barriers and scale sustainably. Each business develops a customized growth plan, participates in targeted leadership and financial development, and gains access to a network of peers and regional resources that fuel long-term success.

This program is designed for ambitious Basin businesses that are ready to grow with purpose — building stronger teams, scalable systems, and lasting legacy-level impact across the region.

New BBA clients can apply to the Growth Accelerator during their initial intake meeting, while existing clients can work with their advisor to access a referral into the program.

How to Get Started with the BBA Program

Getting started with the Basin Business Advisors (BBA) Program is simple. Businesses can apply directly through our website by completing our online intake form. This first step helps us gain a clear picture of your business — what you do, what you sell or build, where you are in your journey, and why you’re interested in working with the BBA. Whether you have specific challenges to address or simply want to access a trusted tool available exclusively to Basin-based businesses, this form helps us understand how to best support you.

After completing the form, you’ll be invited to book a call with our Business Navigator — your first point of contact with the program and a requirement to access our advisors. During this conversation, we take the time to learn about you, your business, and any opportunities or challenges you’re facing. From there, we’ll identify the advisor best suited to your needs and begin crafting a personalized advising plan to help you move forward.

Let’s Grow Together

The Basin Business Advisors program is here to help you take your next step — with confidence, clarity, and community at your side.

Learn more and tell us about your unique business today at bbaprogram.ca.

We see your success. Let us help you grow.

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