Where to get help when starting a Canadian business

Starting a new business can be an exciting prospect, but it can also be a confusing one. Here's how to start your business in Canada.

Starting a new business can be an exciting prospect, but it can also be a confusing one. From licensing to getting the financials sorted, there's a myriad of things to be done before you can open for business. Consult the best websites and network with other businesspeople to get your Canadian business moving in the right direction.

The Canada Business Network is a great government resource You can specify your province and get information on licensing requirements and checklists of things that must be done. There are also templates for business plans, as well as tips on choosing a name for your new business. Canada Business Network also has links to government grants, loans and private sources of funding. If you still have questions, call 1-888 576-4444, and staff will help answer your questions.

CanadaOne, a commercial site that offers tips on running and starting a business, and Small Business Canada are two other useful sources. Each site provides useful articles and information on seminars.

If you are starting a one-off business as opposed to a franchise with an established brand and systems, talk to business owners to gain insightful information about starting and running a business in Canada. The directory of members in the local Chamber of Commerce is an excellent place to start. The Canadian Women's Business Network is a great source of information for women looking to start a business. The CWBN website provides aspiring businesswomen with useful articles and information on seminars and information sessions.

Most provinces will run seminars on starting a business. For example, Ontario regularly offers 3-hour seminars on starting a small business. The cost is nominal at $25, and such events are an excellent place for meeting and networking with other business people.

You can also go directly to the source and find people already in successful businesses who can provide advice and guidance. Check out the members of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, a community of entrepreneurs. Finally, get into the loop of networking referrals by exploring the Canada branch of Business Networking International (BNI).

Starting a new business is both exciting and daunting, but it's nothing that hasn't been done before. To increase your chances of success, consult government sources as well as veterans who have established themselves as successful entrepreneurs.