Starting a Business

Do you have a great business idea but aren’t sure where to start? Service Canada has compiled a list to help you start your own business.

1. Get to know the field

You can get essential start-up information from Canada Business, which has information from many sources, including the federal, provincial and territorial governments.

2. Prepare a Business Plan

Canada Business provides information and resources on the basics of business planning for starting a business, including guides and tools to help you develop a detailed business plan.

3. Register your Business

The Canada Revenue Agency provides registration requirements, guides and resources for registering a business as well as information and resources on the Business Number.

Online services are also available from provincial, territorial and federal governments.

4. Hiring and Managing Staff

If you are interested in hiring staff for your new business, Canada Business provides important information on a variety of topics, including hiring procedures, pay and benefits information and labour standards.

5. Apply for Benefits Available to You

As a new business owner in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for grants and financing to support you.

Self-employed people who register for the Employment Insurance (EI) program through Service Canada will be able to access EI special benefits. The four types of EI special benefits are maternity, parental, sickness, and compassionate care benefits.

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