This one-hour presentation is designed to support small and rural business owners in understanding and navigating economic impacts post-disaster. With a focus on practical tools and disaster recovery pathways and processes, this presentation explores how businesses can better prepare for disruptions, respond effectively in the aftermath, and rebuild with long-term resilience in mind. 

 

The session begins with an overview of common disaster impacts on rural economies and the unique challenges these can create. It then introduces core concepts of business continuity planning, including steps owners can take today to protect their operations. Participants will learn about available recovery supports and tools, and how to collaborate and communicate with local government and provincial supports. 

 

 

Real-world stories will highlight the successes, challenges, and creativity of entrepreneurs from previous events. Participants will be provided a “Business Continuity Planning” checklist, with clear next steps to help strengthen their business continuity and recovery preparedness. 

 

Bio: Jaya Bremer is an experienced emergency management consultant with a background in disaster recovery, community resilience, and emergency planning. With a Master’s in Disaster & Emergency Management from Royal Roads University, Jaya has led critical recovery initiatives across British Columbia, supporting communities impacted by wildfires, floods, and other disasters.

As the founder of Bremer Consulting, she has worked with First Nations, local governments, and provincial agencies on projects such as hazard risk assessments, emergency evacuation planning, and community recovery. Previously, she held key roles with the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness as a Recovery Specialist, Advanced Planning Section Lead, and Emergency Coordination Officer, and with the City of Langford as an Emergency Program Specialist.

Jaya’s expertise spans facilitation, risk assessments, multi-agency engagement and collaboration, disaster recovery and emergency preparedness, and brings a deep commitment to building resilient communities.