Where the candidates stand on economy
Every candidate for Mayor of Vancouver in 2026, on each economy question in the questionnaire. Verified positions come from the candidate’s own public material. Where there is none, a clearly labelled AI-assisted estimate is shown instead. How positions are found.
Vancouver should simplify City permitting and regulation for businesses.
Amauri Caliman · Independent candidate
Strongly agree
I support one clear path through City permits and licences, with published service standards, predictable timelines and a single point of guidance. Necessary rules should protect the public; unnecessary delay is simply another cost for local businesses.
Confirmed by candidateConfirmed by candidate via email on September 30, 2026
Colleen Hardwick · TEAM for a Livable Vancouver
Strongly agree
Supports streamlining permitting for business establishment and expansion.
Published campaign materialEconomic Development (2026) ↗
Kareem Allam · Vancouver Liberals
Strongly agree
Would modernise zoning and business rules so small businesses can manufacture and sell products in the same space.
Why the model reads it this way: Allam explicitly proposes modernizing rules that he says hold back small firms, directly supporting simpler City permitting and regulation.
Ken Sim · ABC Vancouver
Somewhat agree
Supports cutting City red tape for businesses.
Candidate's own materialKen Sim for Mayor | ABC Vancouver ↗
Muhammad Ahmad · Bright Future Vancouver
Strongly agree
The Local Economy pillar proposes a 21-day permit rule before covered permits are automatically granted.
Why the model reads it this way: The 21-day rule and commitment to lower business and building costs directly indicate support for simpler permitting and regulation.
Pete Fry · Green Party of Vancouver
Somewhat agree
Would modernise City procurement while supporting local hiring and local suppliers.
Why the model reads it this way: Fry's support for modernized City processes, streamlined housing permits and local enterprise indicates support for simpler business-facing rules while retaining social and environmental requirements.
Published campaign materialInferred · moderate confidenceBuy Vancouver, Build Canada Economic Strategy ↗
Rebecca Bligh · Vote Vancouver
Strongly agree
Supports simpler processes and better technology to reduce permitting delays.
Confirmed by candidateConfirmed by Vote Vancouver via email on October 1, 2026
Supporting public source:Economic Drivers ↗
Scott Gilbert · Independent candidate
Strongly agree
Simplify City business permitting and regulation: 5.
Confirmed by candidateConfirmed by candidate via email on October 2, 2026