Q&A with Prince Edward Island’s Business Navigator
The Business Navigator is a personalized support service provided through Project ART (Addressing Red Tape) within the Department of Economic Development, Innovation and Trade to help entrepreneurs in Prince Edward Island navigate their business toward growth and success by helping navigate the various provincial regulatory challenges associated with starting, owning, operating, and growing your business.
Meet Alicia Birt – Prince Edward Island’s Business Navigator:
Q: Tell us a bit about you, and your professional background.
A: I’m Alicia Birt and I’m the Government of Prince Edward Island’s Business Navigator. I began my career working with the Government in 2006. before taking on my current position as Business Navigator, I spent nine of those years working with the Global Trade Services Team at Innovation PEI. I hold a Bachelor of Business Administration from UPEI and have a am a certified Green Belt in Lean Six Sigma.
Alicia Birt, Prince Edward Island’s Business Navigator
Q: When did the Business Navigator Service begin?
A: The Business Navigator service was launched in January of 2021. Although our Province has always had a large network of supports for entrepreneurs, a service to assist with navigating regulations was not available. Nova Scotia and New Brunswick had both launched successful Business Navigator services and PEI felt the same service would benefit Islanders.
Q: What are the most common questions that you get from clients using the Business Navigator service?
A: “How do I register a business in PEI?” is very common as there is a legal obligation to register if you are conducting business in the province.
As well, “What license or permit should I be applying for?” is another common question. Many clients reach out with a concept and are unsure if there are any regulatory obligations they need to consider in order to operate their business.
Q: How do people start the process of working with you?
A: The easiest way is to fill out the intake form here or call toll free at 1-833-335-0536 and we can complete the intake process over the phone.
Q: What are some of the resources provided by the Business Navigator?
A: Since the launch of the service, we have created a number of starter guides to assist clients looking to complete a Provincial Business Registration, start a Food Premises or a Tourism Accommodation. Starter guides include step-by-step instructions and key considerations to help entrepreneurs navigate the process confidently.
You can find all of the starter guides on princeedwardisland.ca/businessnavigator, or click the files below:
Q: What is your favourite part about your job?
A: My favourite part of the job is when someone comes to me with a concept but no clear direction as to where to begin and I can guide them through the regulatory process to make it happen. It’s rewarding to see their vision come to life!
The newest Business Navigator Starter Guide on Provincial Business Registration.
Q: What’s your best piece of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
A: My best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is to embrace discomfort. Take advantage of the many supports for entrepreneurs available across the province and ask lots of questions. Trust yourself, take the leap and don’t be afraid to make mistakes – they’re some of your greatest teachers.
Q: What is the best way for people to get in touch with you?
A: The Business Navigator service is available Monday – Friday from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (excluding holidays) and you can get in touch by calling 1-833-335-0536 or by email at [email protected]
“Embrace discomfort. Take advantage of the many supports for entrepreneurs available across the province and ask lots of questions. Trust yourself, take the leap and don’t be afraid to make mistakes – they’re some of your greatest teachers.”