Joshua Knaak is a partner of both ARPA Investments (ARPA) and Fit Financial. As a savvy finance professional, Joshua possesses over 15 years of experience in the lending industry providing commercial financing solutions to clients throughout Western Canada. In his career, Joshua has built two profitable businesses and has a passion for building communities. He has served on the Board of Directors of the North Shore Business Improvement Association, the Kamloops & District Chamber of Commerce, as well as a Director of OnCore Seniors Society.
“I have a sincere desire to see the community of Kamloops improve and become all it can be. My team and I endeavour to put the outcomes of the community at the forefront of each project or business deal we have. I truly believe in the taglines of our companies: building businesses and building communities. I’ve always wanted to solve problems and, through the development work I do as well as the commercial financing, I’m able to help others find successes,” noted Knaak.
ARPA Investments is a Kamloops-based real estate development company that does more than build buildings. The team's mission is to help build vibrant communities. As a partner, Joshua is responsible for oversight of all financial aspects of this company, marketing, and business development.
Knaak and his partners, brothers Jasbir and Parmjit Mahal, have delivered innovative development projects on Kamloops’ North Shore that are helping to activate the business community and meet the ongoing North Shore housing demands.
“We have grown ARPA from a start-up to a company that has completed over $45 million in projects and another $50 million in the planning stages. We believe in investing in developments that further revitalize the community. Together with our team, we have achieved that over the past number of years,” said Knaak.
As an engaged citizen, Joshua uses his influence and resources to advocate for the community’s interests. He has a solid reputation in the community as a business person of integrity and believes in executing high-quality business endeavours with common sense. Throughout his career, business leaders like Brendan Shaw of Brendan Shaw Real Estate see how Joshua has established business partnerships that create windows of opportunities that further benefit the community.
"I have known Joshua for a decade,” said Shaw. “I have come to know him as an honest person who is smart, articulate and opinionated. As a local entrepreneur and builder, Joshua and his partners have changed the landscape of our community. His expertise in commercial finance has made him a go-to person for many local businesses to provide finance solutions. What I admire most about Joshua is that it isn’t all about profit. His intention has always been towards a triple bottom line
of adding environmental savings, as well
as working with local non-profits."
Joshua and his team have developed residential buildings, commercial spaces, and a daycare facility called Children’s Circle Daycare, a recent finalist in the Thompson-Okanagan Commercial Building Awards. The companies also support numerous non-profit organizations and fundraising events. The team at ARPA continues its mission to enhance the North Shore’s neighbourhoods while supporting other entrepreneurs and advocating for the community's needs.
"I am honoured to be recognized as a business leader and it’s likely because I am always available to pitch in when help is needed,” said Knaak. “I also take on leadership roles when I see opportunities to lead, and encourage others to do the same.”