Welcome to CAFE Vancouver Island

The Canadian Association of Family Enterprise (CAFE) is a not-for-profit national organization established in 1983, dedicated to promoting the well-being and understanding of families in business. CAFE is a member-driven, national network passionately committed to the success of families in business and their pivotal contribution to the economy of .

CAFE's objective is to educate, inform and encourage its members in areas of unique interest to family business, through a stimulating program of activities that provide the best sources of information and professional advice available.

The Vancouver Island Chapter was established in 1995 by a number of well-established local family businesses and currently has over 50 member companies.

“The importance of family business in the local, national and international economies cannot be understated.  I am proud to have been part of the team that brought CAFE to Victoria and I remain a strong supporter of their efforts.” Alex Campbell, Thrifty Foods

 “I’m passionate about CAFE. It supported me in taking over the family business from my dad and aided me in doing it in a way where both the business and my relationship with my father flourished. How? By connecting me with peers who had similar experiences and putting me in touch with professional advice and resources specific to family businesses.  I couldn’t have done it without CAFE.”  Mandy Farmer, President & CEO, Accent Inns

 Our chapter offers up to ten programs a year unique to family business.

“The education that myself and my family have received through CAFE programs has significantly contributed to our family and business success. Not only is the information relevant to family business, we really enjoy the opportunity to socialize with other members of the local family business community.” James McKenzie, President, Monk Office Supply Ltd.

The cornerstone of the CAFE experience is a PAG, a Personal Advisory Group that consists of roughly 8 members of non-competing family businesses.  These confidential groups share expert objective advice and experiences in an atmosphere of trust and support.

“My PAG has played a significant role in my personal and professional success.  The value I have obtained from participating in a personal advisory group has been immeasurable.”  Samantha Holmes, Co-owner & Manager, Bolen Books

Contact our Managing Director, Sara Benson, by phone at (778) 426-0248 or by email at vancouverisland@cafecanada.ca to find out how CAFE Vancouver Island can benefit you. You will not find a better resource for families in business.