Vancouver city council has approved a motion to begin exploring the possibility of bringing a Major League Baseball franchise to the city.

Council voted to direct staff to initiate an open and competitive expression of interest process aimed at identifying a potential ownership group that could partner with the city on a future bid.

The City of Vancouver says the process will invite submissions from interested parties able to demonstrate financial capacity, relevant expertise and a viable approach to supporting a Major League Baseball franchise.

Officials emphasized the move represents an early step and does not include approval of a stadium, site selection or any commitment to securing a team.

The city also says there is no commitment of public funding at this stage. Any future proposal would require council approval and be subject to regulatory reviews and public consultation.

As part of the process, proponents will be required to outline governance structures and provide a clear plan in the event a bid is successful.

City staff will review submissions and report back to council with recommended next steps, which could include negotiating a preliminary agreement with a selected group. If no suitable ownership group is identified, the process will not move forward.

Vancouver already has an established baseball presence, including the Vancouver Canadians, who play at Nat Bailey Stadium.

The city noted that no decisions have been made regarding a potential stadium location or the future of existing facilities, and any such considerations would require further study and approval.