Financing your new business is a critical step in the start-up process. All financing alternatives require serious evaluation to ensure that the option selected is the one that best meets the financing needs of your business.

The business plan is the most important document for acquiring financing for your business and for achieving success in your business venture. Create a comprehensive business plan by using the Interactive Business Planner.

Learn about different sources and methods of funding available through the Checklist on Financing. It allows you to improve your knowledge on financing a small business and get the answers you need.

The following links provide additional information on financing your business:

• Our On-line Small Business Workshop contains a guide to financing your business that covers topics such as equity, leverage, and short and long term loans;
• The Canadian Bankers Association deals with Financing a Small Business which concentrates on one of the vital elements of success for any small business operator - initiating and maintaining a relationship with your banker;
• Browse through many articles on financing on the Industry Canada web site;
• The Aboriginal Business Map provides quick and easy access to international, national, provincial, territorial and community business information.