Many young families are moving here, looking at self-employment and entrepreneurial opportunities. The City boasts an excellent school system and expanding facilities at Malaspina-University College .
More people means more demand for local products and services.
In recent years, Nanaimo's economy has moved from a base largely dependent on the forestry sector to a diversified base including retail and wholesale trade, construction, manufacturing, knowledge-based and technology companies, and government services. Enterprising entrepreneurs have created hundreds of new businesses to take advantage of new markets. More products and services means more variety and strengthening of Nanaimo's role as a regional service centre for much of Vancouver Island. Nanaimo is well connected with transportation and communication links to the mainland and international markets. The area is serviced by two ferry terminals toVancouver, a regional airport, a seaplane terminal with regular service to downtown Vancouver, and a thriving port facility operated by the Nanaimo Port Authority.