Just over a month since its official launch, the Business Navigator program is showing success in providing one-on-one, personalized service for inquiries related to requirements to establish and operate businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced that approximately 70 inquiries have been received to date related to new businesses/set-up, funding/resources and overall provincial government support. Inquiries are being received through online portal, dedicated email (businessnavigatornl@gov.nl.ca) and phone line (1-833-404-2283).

Budget 2024 committed to establish a business navigator service to ensure businesses are connected with the correct resources to help streamline processes. The role also includes identifying unnecessary and impeding regulations and red tape to determine what can be eliminated or improved to ensure a more timely, efficient and effective regulatory environment.

Business Navigators can provide information for businesses related to:

• Provincial government regulations and programming.
• Licences, permits and inspections needed to operate a business.
• Support information for additional requirements such as financing, taxes and staffing.

The team of three Business Navigators are located in St. John’s, Clarenville and Corner Brook. They facilitate engagement with businesses by working with key points of contact within government departments to provide clarity or resolve any items related to the inquiry and maintain business engagement to ensure issues are resolved. Additional information on the program can be found on the website.

Industry, Energy and Technology is responsible for economic and resource development, business growth and economic diversification. Department staff work collaboratively with individuals and businesses to strengthen and diversify the economy in all parts of the province.

The department offers a number of financial and non-financial supports for businesses. This includes counselling, repayable and non-repayable financing options, promotion, and export development. The Department works closely with organizations to increase businesses’ productivity and improve their competitiveness.

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“I am pleased with the success of the Business Navigators program just over one month since the launch. I encourage others to avail of this convenient service as well as other support programs offered within the department and throughout the province.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology

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Business Navigators

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