Reach Gary Webb at [email protected] for more information on your accessibility journey.
Over 30 years ago, the Province created an agency to help new entrepreneurs. In 2002, Small Business BC was established out of this agency as an independent non-profit. Ever since, SBBC has supported small business owners with a roster of products and services designed to equip entrepreneurs with the skills needed to thrive today.
One of SBBC’s most familiar faces is Gary Webb. For more than 20 years, he has worked as a Business Advisor helping small business owners get started. Now, he’s stepping into a new role as SBBC’s first-ever Business Accessibility Advisor. This focus on accessibility is just the beginning of a bright new chapter of SBBC’s work.
Meet Gary Webb
Gary has been working at SBBC since 1998. He’s always been interested in helping new entrepreneurs connect with the right resources for them. Over the years, Gary has become an expert Business Advisor.
Now, he’s excited for the opportunity to focus on helping clients create more accessible workplaces. As a Business Accessibility Advisor, Gary is a point person that small businesses can contact for accessibility questions.
“It’s hard enough to start a business, but other people have additional barriers to get over. There are many different regulations and steps that entrepreneurs have to go through. We are a pathfinder for people so they can know where to look for certain things and what resources are available out there,” said Gary.
Small Business BC as a Pathfinder
According to Gary, there are many different governmental departments, many of which have departments within departments. Budding entrepreneurs can get burnt out trying to figure out which office to contact with their questions and concerns.
“Phone here, phone here, phone here, and then they go back to the first person they found — it’s just a big loop for people, that’s very common,” said Gary.
Gary says that he sees Small Business BC as a go-to place to help people find the right resource for them. This helps ease entrepreneurs’ frustrations with the process, guiding them forward on a clear path, which is especially helpful for the topic of accessibility.
Workplace Accessibility Resources
SBBC’s Workplace Accessibility Resources is a hub for small business owners to improve inclusivity. In the hub, you’ll find articles, webinars, checklists, and free resources to help you at any stage of your accessibility journey.
For example, if you’re just getting started with workplace accessibility, read our Getting Started Guide. If you want to improve your organization’s communication, refer to our Accessibility Glossary to learn more about best practices when talking about disability and accessibility in the workplace.
Explore the hub and learn more about the benefits that creating an accessible workplace can have on your business and your community. Of course, Gary can help you navigate through the most applicable resources for you and your unique business, including advice on how to fund accessibility changes.
Advice for Entrepreneurs
Gary’s final advice for new entrepreneurs is to spend more time planning. Many entrepreneurs become confused and overwhelmed Gary encourages them to take a step back and keep things simple. “Don’t overwhelm yourself,” said Gary. For example, doing some basic financial research will start you off on the right path.
You can reach Gary Webb at [email protected] to inquire about a free consultation.
Continue your Accessibility Journey with SBBC
Small Business BC is a non-profit resource centre for BC-based small businesses. Our Accessibility Resources for Business page is full of tips, tools, and more to support your next stage.
We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.
