Your journey to starting a small business begins here!
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Starting a small business can be exciting and challenging. With careful research and hard work, it can also be very rewarding. This guide is written with the intent of pointing you, the potential entrepreneur, in the right direction – faster and easier!
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Get a custom guide on how to start your business in Ontario.
After completing the Ten Steps training take this simple 10-minute questionnaire for a downloadable custom guide to help start or grow your business. Provided by the Government of Ontario.
Ten Steps to starting a business
In this guide, you will find a review of the four basic business structures to help you decide which is right for your business, government rules and regulations concerning your new business, a listing of financial assistance programs, a business plan guide intended to assist you in writing a business plan, and so much more. If you have any questions afterward, the Hamilton Business Centre's Business Development Officers are here to help! Book a free 1-1 consultation.
Step #1: Conduct Market Research
Learn to better understand your customers, the market, and your business' potential.
Step #2: Prepare a Business Plan
Prepare a business plan to help clarify your business idea, goals, strengths, weaknesses, and more!
Step #3: Choose a Business Structure
Discover which business structure is best for you and your business's needs now, and in the future.
Step #4: Register Your Business
Learn if you need to register your business in Ontario and how to access the new online registry.
Step #5: Business Number (BN)
Learn what a BN number is and discover if your business should be charging GST/HST.
Step #6: Licensing Requirements
Learn more about Municipal Licensing and if your business requires one to operate.
Step #7: Zoning Regulations
Discover if your business can legally operate at your chosen location and what Zoning is.
Step #8: Additional Regulations
Learn about additional regulations like taxes, business insurance, and more that may apply to your business.
Step #9: Financing Your Business
Find out what programs and resources might be available to help finance your business.
Step #10: Additional Resources
Find additional resources available to help you start, grow, and expand your business.
Step #8: Building Permits
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Step #9: Additional Requirements
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