Business Start-Up Info-Guide

The following document was prepared by the Canada-Ontario Business Service Centre (COBSC), a single point of access to information on federal and provincial government programs, services and regulations.

This Info-Guide is designed to help you navigate through the federal and provincial government programs services and regulations that may apply to individuals interested in starting their own business. Although many of your questions will be answered in this document, the list of resources given here is not exhaustive.

Need more information?

Click: Canada-Ontario Business Service Centre
Call: 1-800-567-2345
Visit: The Regional Access Program Location Index for a listing of offices in Ontario.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Overview
2. Planning Your Business
3. Choosing Your Organizational Structure
4. Dealing with Business Taxes
5. Business Licensing
6. Dealing with Employees
7. Other Business Issues
8. Additional Sources of Information
9. Web Sites of Interest

1. Overview

Owning Your Own Business: New, Existing and Franchise Opportunities
There are three common ways to get into business. You may wish to start the business as a new enterprise, you could buy an existing business, or you may decide to purchase a franchise. Regardless of which type of ownership you are thinking about, there are some basic questions you should ask yourself to assess whether you are ready. To help you with this assessment, there are several documents available from the COBSC:

Points to Consider When Starting Your Own Business
Checklists for Going Into Business
Feasibility Checklist for Starting a Small Business

You could also try the Online Small Business Workshop, a step-by-step Web-based program designed to help develop your business idea, start a new venture, or improve an existing small business. Visit the Web site Online Small Business Workshop.

Information on Buying a Franchise
A franchise is a contractual agreement between an individual or company, the franchiser, and another individual or company, the franchisee. This agreement is the right to sell, in a specified manner and within a specified territory, the goods or services developed by the franchiser.

For further information:
please call (905) 625-2896 or 1-800-665-4232
see document Checklists for Franchisees
visit the Web site: Canadian Franchise Association

2. Planning Your Business

What is a Business Plan?
A business plan is a recognized management tool used by successful and/or prospective businesses of all sizes to document business objectives and to propose how these objectives will be attained within a specific period of time. It is a written document which describes who you are, what you plan to achieve, where your business will be located, when you expect to get under way, and how you will overcome the risks involved and provide the returns anticipated.

Why Do I Need One?
A business plan will provide information of your proposed venture to lenders, investors, and suppliers to demonstrate how you plan to use their money, and to establish a basis for credibility of your project.

The COBSC has a number of resources that can help you develop your business plan:
Business Plan Guide
Business Plan for Small Manufacturers
Business Plan for Retailers
Business Plan for Small Construction Firms
Business Plan for Small Service Firms

Interactive Business Planner (IBP)
The IBP is a computer software program that uses the capabilities of the Internet to assist you in preparing a 3-year business plan for a new or existing business. The IBP will help you write your business plan, provide a format for writing your business plan, and take the information you enter and prepare financial projections for you.

For further information:
visit the Web site: Interactive Business Planner
see document Interactive Business Planner - IBP

You may also wish to consult the document Dealing With Your Banker & Other Lenders, which provides an overview ofvarious types of financing and developing a good relationship with your lender.

Marketing Your Product or Service
A marketing plan is designed to direct company activities towards the satisfaction of customer needs; determine what the customer wants, develop a product/service to meet those needs, get the product/service to the end user and communicate with the customer - at a profit!

For further information:
see these documents:
Marketing Plan Outline
Marketing Checklist for Small Retailers

There are a broad range of publications to help new businesses market their products or services. The Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade has a publication called "Marketing for a Small Business", which can be purchased from many of the Small Business Self-Help Offices and Enterprise Centres and from Publications Ontario:

To find detailed financial and employment data on small businesses by industry for Canada, you may wish to use Performance Plus. This is a Web-based tool that provides performance benchmarks to help small businesses determine how they measure up against their competitors.

For further information:
visit the Web site :Performance Plus

Another good source of information on the demographic characteristics of the Canadian community in which you are considering marketing your product or service is Community Profiles. This site provides useful information on age, income, education and housing.

For further information:
visit the Web site:
Community Profiles
http://www12.statcan.ca/english/Profil01/PlaceSearchForm1.cfm

3. Choosing Your Organizational Structure

In Ontario there are several ways to start a business, with each structure having advantages and disadvantages. Before you decide which business form is best, you should consider such aspects as personal liability, business name protection, tax advantages and registration or filing costs.

For further information:
see document Forms of Business Organization

Registering a Business Name

Ontario businesses may register a business name as a sole proprietor or a general partnership.

A sole proprietorship is the simplest way to set up a business. A sole proprietorship is not required to be registered if the business is carried on under the owner's own name (e.g. Jane Smith). If the business uses a name other than the owner's or any other words are added to the owners name (e.g. Jane Smith Shoes), the Business Names Act requires you to register the business name before you start using it. Sole proprietors are fully responsible for all debts and obligations related to their business. A creditor with a claim against a sole proprietor would normally have a right against all business and personal assets. This is known as unlimited liability.

In a general partnership, each member shares in the management of the business, and has personal liability for business debts and obligations. Therefore each partner is responsible for, and assumes the consequences of the actions of the other partner(s). The names and pertinent information of all partners must be registered with the Ontario Ministry of Government Services. The registration must be renewed every five years.

Other types of partnerships include Limited Partnerships and Limited Liability Partnerships.

In a Limited Partnership some members are "general partners", who control and manage the business, and may be entitled to a greater share of profits. The other partners are "limited partners", who contribute capital only, take no part in control or management, and have limited liability for debts. A legal document, setting out specific requirements, must be drawn up for a limited partnership. Limited Partnerships are also registered with the Ministry of Government Services in Ontario. This form of business organization must also be renewed every five years.

In a Limited Liability Partnership (LLPs) some of the characteristics of a partnership and some of a limited company apply. LLPs must register under the Business Names Act. Currently in Ontario, only chartered accountants or lawyers can form LLPs. Extra-Provincial Limited Liability Partnerships (EP LLPs) and Extra-Provincial Limited Liability Companies (EP LLCs) must also register their business name in Ontario under the Business Names Act.

Note: In any type of partnership, the members should have an agreement, which would usually be drawn up with the assistance of a lawyer. This document establishes the terms of the business and helps to protect the partners in the event of a disagreement or the dissolution of the business. For an overview of what to include in your agreement, see the document Standard Outline for a Partnership or Shareholder Agreement.

For further information:
please call (416) 314-8880 or 1-800-361-3223
visit the Web site
Starting a Business
http://www.cbs.gov.on.ca/MGS/english/starting_business.htm

Incorporating Your Business
Incorporation establishes your business as a distinct, legal entity, offering you a number of advantages including business name protection, transferability of business ownership, limited liability and possible tax advantages.

A business may incorporate provincially or federally. If your business will operate primarily in Ontario, provincial incorporation may be desirable. If your business will operate in a number of provinces, you may wish to consider federal incorporation. Under provincial incorporation your business name is protected only in Ontario. As a federally incorporated business, the name has national protection.

The process of business incorporation has three main elements. First is the name search (unless you are going to be operating a numbered company). This search is done by a Searcher of Records, and is used to confirm that no one else has a business or registered trade mark with a name the same as, or similar to, the one you have chosen. Second, Articles of Incorporation are completed. Articles of Incorporation are legal documents that establish your business, and must be approved by the government before you do business under that business name. The third element is the fee to file your application for incorporation. Fees vary according to the level of government to which you are applying.

For further information:
please call (416) 314-8880 or 1-800-361-3223
visit the Web site:
Your Business and Federal Legislation: Incorporating Your Business
http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/SSG/1/me00015e.html
see the documents:
Ontario Business Incorporation
Federal Business Incorporation - Canada Business Corporations Act (CBCA)

4. Dealing with Business Taxes

All businesses must be aware of the various taxes that may apply to their product or service. Depending on the type and location of products or services being offered, federal, provincial and/or municipal business taxes may apply.

For further information:
see the document: Taxation Info-Guide
visit these Web sites:

Provincial Tax Forms and Publications
http://www.trd.fin.gov.on.ca/userfiles/HTML/cma_3_158_1.html
Small Business Tax Help
http://www.trd.fin.gov.on.ca/userfiles/HTML/cma_3_160_1.html
CRA Business Tax Web Page
http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tax/business/menu-e.html

Income Tax Information
Business owners must be aware of the requirements of Income tax that may apply to their product or service. There are different tax implications for incorporated and non-incorporated businesses. For information specific to your organization you should consult an accountant or financial professional.

For further information:
please call: 1-800-959-5525
see the document: Taxation Info-Guide
visit the Web site:
Ontario Income Tax
http://www.trd.fin.gov.on.ca/userfiles/HTML/cma_3_2447_1.html
Canada Revenue Taxes Menu
http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/menu-e.html

Business Registration On-line
This service is designed so that businesses can conveniently register themselves for Canada Revenue Agency, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Ontario programs at one time.

For further information:
visit the Web site Business Registration On-line

Below are links to publications that cover some of the general tax requirements for business owners in Ontario.

Ontario Small Business Guide
This booklet will guide you through various aspects of Retail Sales Tax, Corporations Tax and Employer Health Tax. This booklet also answers some of the frequently asked questions of small business owners regarding tax obligations.
http://www.trd.fin.gov.on.ca/userfiles/HTML/cma_3_24414_1.html

Employer Health Tax (EHT)
Describes the main features of the EHT, including taxpayer rights and responsibilities under the Employer Health Tax Act
http://www.trd.fin.gov.on.ca/userfiles/HTML/cma_3_2697_1.html

For further information:
see the document Employer Health Tax - EHT

Retention/Destruction of Books & Records
Explains the retention period required for Ontario tax purposes, before books and records can be destroyed.
http://www.trd.fin.gov.on.ca/userfiles/HTML/cma_3_20001_1.html

Voluntary Disclosure
Explains what voluntary compliance is and the basic principles under which Ontario's tax system operates
http://www.trd.fin.gov.on.ca/userfiles/HTML/cma_3_19999_1.html

The Ontario Health Premium
As of July 1, 2004 all employees working in Ontario will be required to pay an additional tax called The Ontario Health Premium. This tax will be deducted from pay and pensions as part of personal income tax requirements. The premiums would range from $60 to $900 a year for people with a taxable income of $21,000 a year or more. For detailed information on The Ontario Health Premium and employer responsibilities regarding payroll and deductions please contact the Canada Revenue Agency.

For further information:
Please call 1-800-959-5525
visit the Web site:
Ontario Health Premium
http://www.fin.gov.on.ca/english/media/2004/bk-ohp.html

Business Number (BN)
The Business Number is a reference numbering system that replaces the multiple numbers businesses require to deal with government. The Business Number can encompass one or more of the following accounts: Goods and Services Tax (GST), Payroll Deductions, Import/Export and Corporate Income Tax. There is no fee for a Business Number.

For further information:
please call 1-800-959-5525
visit the Web site:
The Business Number and Your Canada Customs and Revenue Agency Accounts
http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/E/pub/tg/rc2/README.html
see the document Business Number - BN

Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Most goods and services sold or provided in Canada are taxable under the GST at a rate of 6%. Certain items, such as basic groceries and prescription drugs, are also taxable, but are taxed at 0%. These are referred to as "zero-rated goods and services." A limited number of goods and services are exempt from the GST.

Who must obtain a Business Number for the GST?
Most persons and organizations engaged in commercial activities in Canada who have worldwide taxable sales of more than $30 000 in any previous four consecutive calendar quarters or in any one calendar quarter must register for and collect GST or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). All taxi operators must register for GST/HST, regardless of their revenues.

If your total annual sales are less than or equal to $30 000, you are considered to be a small supplier and are not required to have a Business Number for the purpose of GST. If you do not obtain a Business Number, you do not charge GST.

For further information:
please call 1-800-959-5525
visit the Web site
GST/HST
http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tax/business/topics/gst/menu-e.html
see the document Goods and Services Tax and Harmonized Sales Tax - GST/HST

Provincial Sales Tax (PST)
The PST is a tax based on the retail price of most goods, and is also known as the Retail Sales Tax. Businesses that sell taxable goods or provide a taxable service are responsible for collecting and remitting the tax. Businesses required to collect the PST must obtain a Vendors Permit through the Ontario Ministry of Finance. There is no fee for this permit.

What does the PST apply to?
The PST rate in Ontario is 8% on most purchases of goods and on labour charges to install, repair, and maintain taxable goods and equipment. The tax is also payable at the same rate on prepared food purchased from an eating establishment, where the total charge is more than $4.00. Certain purchases, such as food products and children's clothing, are exempt from this tax.

For further information:
please call 1-800-263-7965
see the documents:
Vendor Permits and the Retail Sales Tax
Purchase Exemption Certificates for Retail Sales Tax

Municipal Business Taxes
Many cities and towns charge business taxes to businesses operating within their jurisdiction. These taxes can vary according to geographic location, type of business (e.g. manufacturing, retail), and amount of space occupied. If you are starting a new business or purchasing an existing business, it is wise to inquire with the municipality to determine what local business taxes will be charged and how they will be calculated. Researching and understanding municipal tax rates should be part of your business plan and may help you decide where to locate your business. For more information on municipal business taxes, you should contact the taxation office of the city or town where your business will be located.

5. Business Licensing

Do I need a licence to start my own business?
Many types of businesses require licensing from the federal, provincial and/or municipal government. These requirements could include an operating permit, special permission to operate in your chosen location or specific qualifications for you and/or your employees. For more information, you may wish to consult:

• the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade's publication Your Guide to Small Business (particularly Chapters 3 and 4)
• the federal statutes and regulations published athttp://laws.justice.gc.ca/en/index.html
• the Ontario statutes and regulations published at the following address:E-Laws News; or
• a private business consultant, a lawyer or an accountant.

Municipal Requirements
Each municipal government has the authority to issue its own business licences within its jurisdiction. Since there is no uniformity throughout the province regarding municipal licences for businesses, you should consult with the appropriate local officials to determine whether your business will be affected by local regulations and licensing requirements. Businesses (including home-based businesses) must also meet the zoning by-laws that control property uses in their municipality.

For further information:
visit the Web site:
Association of Ontario Municipalities
http://www.amo.on.ca//AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home
see the document Municipal Requirements to Start a Business

6. Dealing with Employees

If you will be hiring employees, there are a number of issues that need to be considered. These include conditions of work, payroll deductions and workplace safety.

Federal Deductions
As an employer, you are responsible for making a number of deductions on behalf of your employees. Under federal law, it is required that all employers collect Employment Insurance Premiums, Canada Pension Plan Contributions and Personal Income Tax on behalf of the federal government. Remittances for Employment Insurance and the Canada Pension Plan are shared by the employer and employee. You must also report the employee's income and deductions on the appropriate information return by the end of February of the following calendar year. The deductions made on behalf of employees must be placed in a trust account.

For further information:
please call 1-800-959-5525
visit the Web site:
Payroll
http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/payroll
see the document Trust Accounts Division

The CRA offers personalized visits to new employers help them to understand withholding procedures and to solve any trust accounts problems they may have.

For further information:
see the document New Employer Visits

Provincial Regulations

Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB)
Most businesses in Ontario that employ workers (including family members and sub-contractors) must register with the WSIB within 10 days of hiring their first full- or part-time worker. The WSIB collects assessments from most employers in Ontario, pooling them in a collective liability fund, and then distributing benefits to workers who are injured or who develop an occupational disease resulting from their employment.

For further information:
please call (416) 344-1000 or 1-800-387-5540
visit the Web site Workplace Safety and Insurance Board
see the document  Workplace Safety and Insurance Board - WSIB

Employer Health Tax (EHT)
The EHT is paid by employers who have a permanent establishment in Ontario and who:

• have employees who report for work at the Ontario permanent establishment, or have employees who do not report for work at a permanent establishment of the employer but are paid from an Ontario permanent establishment of the employer; and
• have a total Ontario remuneration for the year (paid to employees or former employees) that exceeds the exemption amount allowed, if any.

For further information:
please call 1-800-263-7965
visit the Web site:
Employer Health Tax (EHT)
http://www.trd.fin.gov.on.ca/userfiles/HTML/cma_3_2697_1.html
see the document Employer Health Tax - EHT

Employment Standards
The Employment Standards Branch of the Ontario Ministry of Labour is responsible for the administration and enforcement of the Employment Standards Act, 2000, which provides for minimum terms and conditions of employment in most industries (for example, minimum wage, statutory holidays, hours of work). For an overview of various employment-related regulations, you may wish to consult the document.

For further information:
please call (416) 326-7160 or 1-800-531-5551
visit these Web sites :
Ministry of Labour
http://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/index.html
Employment Standards Claim
http://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/es/claim/index.html
Employee Self Help Kit
http://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/es/selfhelp/index.html
see the document Employment Regulations Info-Guide

7. Other Business Issues

Bonding and Business Insurance
Bonding and other types of business insurance can protect your enterprise from unpredictable damage and problems. Most businesses that have assets should have insurance protection. It is advisable that you think seriously about the type and amount of insurance that your business requires, and that you deal with a knowledgeable insurance company or broker.

For further information:
see the document Bonding

Intellectual Property
Sometimes a person or business will want to protect an image or identity, a newly created product, an innovative design, or a creative work. You can receive legal recognition and protection for these endeavours, which are known as "intellectual property." Many intellectual property rights are administered through a federal agency called the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO).

The following are examples of intellectual property covered by CIPO.

Trade-marks are words, symbols, designs -- or a combination of these (such as a graphic logo with a slogan) -- used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. Trade-marks come to represent not only actual wares and services, but the reputation of the business. As such, they are considered valuable intellectual property. A registered trade-mark can be protected through legal proceedings from misuse and imitation.

For further information:
see the document Trade-marks

Copyright is the exclusive right of the holder to reproduce a work or to allow someone else to do so. The owner of a copyright has the sole right to control any publication, production, reproduction and performance of a work or its translation. Generally, if you are the creator of the work, you own the copyright. However, if you create a work in the course of employment, the copyright belongs to your employer unless there is an agreement to the contrary. You can also choose to register a copyright with CIPO's Copyright Office. No one is obliged to do so, but it can be a useful proof of ownership.

For further information:
see the document Copyrights

Patents are legal documents protecting the rights of inventors. They are also a repository of useful technical information for the public. Through a patent, the government gives the inventor the right to exclude others from making, using or selling his or her invention from the day the patent is granted to a maximum of 20 years after the day the patent application is filed. Patents can be sold, licensed or used as an asset to negotiate funding.

For further information:
see the document Patents

Industrial designs are the visual features of shape, configuration, pattern or ornament (or any combination of these features), applied to a finished article of manufacture. To be eligible for registration, a design must be original. The design must have features which "appeal to" and are judged solely by the eye. That is, the features must be visible on the finished article.

For further information:
see the document Industrial Designs

For further information :
visit the Web site:Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Labelling
Most products sold to consumers in Canada have some type of labelling requirements associated with the product's content, use, warnings and claims. These labelling requirements apply to anyone who manufactures, sells, buys and/or imports products for public use or consumption. Labelling applies to both food and non-food items.

For further information:
see the documents:
Labelling Fact Sheet
Labelling Assessment Tools
Labelling Claims

Consumer Products and Labelling
Industry Canada administers the packaging and labelling of non-food products hrough the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act . The Act defines three mandatory labelling requirements:

• product identity;
• product net quantity;
• dealer's name and principal place of business.

Information must be included in both official languages, except the dealer's name and address, which can appear in either language.

For further information:
see the document Labelling - Packaging Consumer Products (Non-Food)

Some consumer products, such as cosmetics, toys, and children's clothing, are regulated by Health Canada through the Hazardous Products Act. The Regulations specify the requirements for labelling and instructions for assembling, design, construction, finish, performance, flammability and toxicity. Businesses that manufacture, sell or import consumer goods should be aware of all labelling requirements regarding their products.

For further information:
please call 1-866-999-7612 or (416) 973-4389
visit the Web site:
Hazardous Product Act
http://laws.justice.gc.ca/en/H-3/

Labelling Textiles
Under the Textile Labelling and Advertising Regulations, most consumer textile articles offered for sale in Canada, including clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, etc., must bear a label with information on fibre content and dealer identity. Fibre content information must be provided in English and French. Dealer identification may be provided in the form of a CA Number (for Canadian dealers only) or by listing the complete name and postal address of the responsible dealer.

For further information:
see the documents:
CA Number Registration and Database
Labelling - Textiles

The Technical Standards and Safety Act, 2000 regulates items such as stuffed furniture, mattresses, bedding products, clothing materials, toys, and miscellaneous items such as pet items, sports equipment and backpacks. The filling materials used for these items are inspected for compliance with safety regulations, and samples are tested for proper filling in regard to quality, quantity and cleanliness. This regulation registers renovators, manufacturers and retailers, and inspects their premises.

For further information:
please call (416) 325-2000 or 1-877-682-8772
visit the Web siteTechnical Standards and Safety Authority

Labelling Packaged Food
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) administers the federal labelling requirements for prepackaged foods under the Food and Drugs Act and the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act. Among the basic labelling requirements for prepackaged foods are the common name, net quantity, ingredients, "Best before" date and responsible party by or for whom the packaged food is manufactured or produced.

For further information:
visit the Web site Guide to Food Labelling and Advertising
see the document Food Labelling

8. Additional Sources of Information

Before starting your small business, it is important to make sure that you have done your homework and gathered as much information as possible on government regulations, assistance programs, marketing data and the aspects of business operation in which you may have little knowledge or experience. The following organizations can provide you with additional information and resources to start your business.

Business Self-Help Offices and Enterprise Centres
The Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, in partnership with local municipalities, operate Business Self-Help Offices and Enterprise Centres in communities across Ontario. New and existing Ontario entrepreneurs will find a variety of services and resources to enhance their business development. At each office, the services offered include:

Consultant Services : the availability of a knowledgeable general business consultant ;

Publications : there are many informative publications and booklets that cover everything from preparing a business plan, to creating a marketing plan, record keeping for small business and financial assistance programs;

Seminars : delivery of business-related seminars and workshops to expand your business knowledge.

For further information:
please call 1-800-567-2345 or (416) 775-3456
see these documents:
Small Business Enterprise Centres - Central Ontario
Small Business Enterprise Centres - Eastern Ontario
Small Business Enterprise Centres - Northern Ontario
Small Business Enterprise Centres - Southwestern Ontario

Ministry of Small Business and Entrepreneurship
The website offers a wealth of information for Ontario's small business community, from a new start-up to an established high performing firm, by providing connections to the people and resources that contribute to improved competitiveness and profitability.

For further information:
visit the Web site:
Ministry of Small Business and Entrepreneurship
http://www.sbe.gov.on.ca/ontcan/sbe/en/home_en.jsp

Aboriginal Business Service Network (ABSN)
The ABSN is committed to providing the Aboriginal business community with a wide range of information on government services, programs and regulations that are relevant, up-to-date and accurate. This service is supported through the Canada Business Services Centres, which provide free-of-charge access to this information.

For further information:
please call 1-800-567-2345 or (416) 775-3456
visit the Web site Aboriginal Business Service Network

Aboriginal Business Canada (ABC)
Thousands of Aboriginal entrepreneurs got their start or expanded their operations with help from Aboriginal Business Canada, an Industry Canada program which promotes the growth of commerce as one means towards economic self-sufficiency for Aboriginal people.

For further information:
please call (416) 973-8800
visit the Web site Aboriginal Business Canada
see the document Aboriginal Business Canada

Young Entrepreneurs Association (YEA)
The YEA is a Canadian non-profit organization whose mandate is to support young people in business. Primarily aimed at people 35 and under who own businesses, YEA provides its members with the opportunity to learn from one another's experiencs and take advantage of the support of their peers as they grow their businesses.

For further information:
please call 1-888-639-3222
visit the Web site Young Entrepreneurs Association
see the document Young Entrepreneurs Association

Canadian Bankers Association (CBA)
The CBA has publications for individuals thinking about starting a business, as well as information on financing for new and existing businesses.

For further information:
visit the Web site Canadian Bankers Association

Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
The BDC provides a wide range of business counselling and training programs, including workshops, seminars and business management courses. Costs for the BDC's programs vary.

For further information:
please call 1-877-232-2269
visit the Web site Business Development Bank of Canada
see the document Consulting Group

Note : You may also wish to consult a private business counsellor, a lawyer or an accountant. The information in the document Selecting Professional Services may assist you in selecting a professional. You may also find resources at your local library and through business associations.

9. Web Sites of Interest

Canada-Ontario Business Service Centre (COBSC)
The Canada-Ontario Business Service Centre Web site contains information on federal and provincial government programs, services and regulations, as well as links to both government and non-government sites.

Strategis
Strategis is Industry Canada's Web site of business and consumer information. It provides fast, accurate and value-added information aimed at small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as well as consumers. With Strategis, Canadian businesses have access to a vast array of management resources, perspectives and data that can help them further develop and expand markets, create alliances and find new clients. Consumers have access to interactive bank service charge and credit card cost calculators, and other useful information to help them become better informed citizens.

For further information:
visit the Web site Strategis
see the document Strategis

Canadian Company Capabilities (CCC)
CCC is an online database which profiles approximately 40 000 Canadian companies. This database contains vital company information that can be searched to locate Canadian suppliers and distribution channels, to determine competition, to form partnerships and to uncover export ventures.

For further information:
visit the Web site Canadian Company Capabilities
see the document Canadian Company Capabilities

Statistics Canada
Statistics Canada is required to collect, compile, analyze, abstract and publish statistical information relating to the commercial, industrial, financial, social, economic and general activities and conditions of the people of Canada.

For further information:
visit the Web site Statistics Canada

Ministry of Government Services (MGS)
The Ontario MGS provides basic information on operating a business in Ontario.

For further information:
visit the Web site
Ministry of Government Services (MGS)
http://www.mgs.gov.on.ca/english/business/index.html

Le Réseau de développement économique et d'employabilité (RDÉE)
This Canadian network facilitates, with the help of its provincial and territorial partners, the economic development and the creation of jobs within the French and Acadians communities of Canada.

For further information:
visit the Web site
Le Réseau de développement économique et d'employabilité (RDÉE)
http://www.gazel.ca/index.cfm/2,0,1321,0,0,0,html (available in French only)

Enterprise Magazine

Entrepreneur.com
http://www.entrepreneur.com/

BIz Start Ups
http://www.entrepreneur.com/bizstartups/0,4235,,00.html

• Important Notices
• Starting a Business
• Business Guides Available at the COBSC
• Forms of Business Organization
• Points to Consider When Starting Your Own Business
• List of Fact Sheets

DISCLAIMER
Information contained in this document is of a general nature only and is not intended to constitute advice for any specific fact situation. Users concerned about the reliability of the information should consult directly with the source, or seek legal counsel.

Links Policy
Some of the hypertext links lead to non-federal government sites which are not subject to the Official Languages Act and the material is available in one language only.