Launch a Victoria Convention and Visitors Bureau Today
Welcome to the guide for starting a Convention and Visitors Bureau (NAICS 561591) in Victoria. This page lays out what you need to know, from the six essential requirements to permits, startup costs, and a realistic timeline. You'll find practical, step-by-step guidance to help you create a CVB that champions local attractions, supports tourism partners, and grows Victoria’s visitor economy.
You’ll learn exactly what to prepare and where to apply: a concise requirements overview, necessary permits and registrations, typical costs (core startup and ongoing operating expenses), and a clear timeline with milestones. We break down governance, funding ideas, stakeholder engagement, and metrics that show impact, so you can move from plan to launch with confidence.
Victoria is an ideal place for a CVB: a vibrant tourism sector, world-class attractions, and collaborative city programs that welcome new partnerships. This combo makes it easier to attract events, showcase experiences, and drive sustained visitation—setting your bureau up for long-term success.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a convention and visitors bureau in Victoria is the Business Number (BN) Registration. This CRA-issued number is the gateway to all tax accounts and government interactions, and you cannot properly register for GST/HST, set up payroll, or file essential returns without it. This is non-negotiable and should be secured before you do anything else.
Next, you’ll need the operational licenses and safety permits that keep a real business running. Register for the City of Victoria’s business licence to legally operate in the city. If you have employees, obtain WorkSafeBC coverage and register accordingly. These steps cover the essential health and safety and local permit requirements, helping you run a compliant, location-appropriate operation.
On the registration and tax side, consider BC Business Name Registration if you’ll operate under a name other than your legal name (for sole proprietors or partnerships). For taxes, you’ll likely need GST/HST Registration if your taxable supplies exceed the threshold, and Payroll Deductions Registration if you’ll withhold taxes and contributions for staff. These registrations work together with your BN and are essential for proper reporting and remittance.
Next steps: map out your business structure, confirm licensing with the City of Victoria, and line up your BN and tax registrations. Gather required documents, then apply online or visit CRA and BC government portals. If you’d like, I can help you create a simple checklist and timeline to keep you on track and confident as you launch your CVB in Victoria.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a convention and visitors bureaus in Victoria:
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Business Number (BN) Registration RequiredA 9-digit Business Number is required for most businesses operating in Canada. It is used to interact with the Canada Revenue Agency and other federal programs. Required for GST/HST, payroll, corporation income tax, and import/export accounts. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) at canada.ca. Takes 15-30 minutes. As of November 3, 2025, online registration is MANDATORY for new BNs - phone registration no longer available. You'll need: business name, address, owner SIN, business type, and start date. BN (9-digit number) issued INSTANTLY online. Available 21 hours/day, 7 days/week (closed 3-6am ET for maintenance).
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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Victoria. Apply to City of Victoria for Business Licence: 1. Determine business category 2. Complete business licence application 3. Submit required documents (ID, lease, zoning confirmation) 4. Pay application and annual fees 5. Await approval and receive licence Contact City of Victoria Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
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BC Business Name Registration (Sole Proprietorship/Partnership) RequiredRegistration of sole proprietorship or partnership business names with BC Registries Register sole proprietorship or partnership at bcregistry.gov.bc.ca. Name reservation: $30 (standard) or $100 (priority 1-2 days). Registration fee: $40. Total: ~$70. Name reserved for 56 days after approval. Registration is continuous (no renewal required). No name protection for sole proprietorships. Personal names operating under own name do not require registration. Contact BC Registries: 1-877-526-1526.
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GST/HST Registration ConditionalRequired if annual taxable revenue exceeds $30,000 (small supplier threshold). Taxi/ride-share drivers must register regardless of revenue. Businesses with gross revenues over $30,000 in any single quarter or over four consecutive quarters must register for, collect, and remit GST/HST. Small suppliers (under $30,000) may register voluntarily. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when your revenue exceeds $30,000 in any 4 consecutive quarters (small supplier threshold). Takes 15-30 minutes. You MUST register within 29 days of exceeding threshold and start charging GST/HST immediately on the sale that made you exceed it. Need your BN (or get one simultaneously). As of Nov 3, 2025, online registration is mandatory. Voluntary registration available anytime for input tax credits.
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Payroll Deductions Registration ConditionalRequired if you pay salaries, wages, or other remuneration to employees. Must register before first pay period. Required if you have employees. You must withhold Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Employment Insurance (EI), and income tax from employee wages and remit to CRA. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when you hire your first employee. Takes 15-20 minutes. You'll need your Business Number (BN) or can get one simultaneously. Payroll account (RP) added to your BN instantly. Register BEFORE your first pay date. Required to deduct CPP, EI, and income tax from employee wages. For 2025: CPP rate 5.95%, EI employee rate $1.66/$100 insurable earnings.
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WorkSafeBC Coverage and Registration ConditionalRequired if you have workers in BC. Workers compensation insurance coverage through WorkSafeBC for employers in British Columbia WorkSafeBC coverage required for most BC employers. Average base premium rate: 1.55% of assessable payroll ($1.55 per $100). Register online at worksafebc.com. Apply 30 days before starting business or hiring workers. Processing: ~10 business days. Premium rates vary by industry classification (514 classification units). COR certified employers eligible for 10% rebate. Contact: 604-276-3100 or 1-888-967-5377.
Funding & Grants
Available funding programs that may apply to your convention and visitors bureaus:
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Three-stream grant program for Nunavut-based artists, businesses, and organizations: (1) Getting Started/Arts Creation/Training — supports education, training, art supplies, equipment; (2) Arts and Culture Development — supports collaborative arts initiatives, exhibitions, shows, and touring; (3) Infrastructure Development — supports studios and cultural tourism infrastructure. Annual call for proposals.
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Provided contributions to settlement, employment, and community organizations delivering programs addressing employment barriers for racialized newcomer women, including work placements, mentorships, job counselling, and support for gender- and race-based discrimination. Program renewal ended in 2025; no new open call as of early 2026. Over 2,200 racialized newcomer women were served …
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