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Thinking about starting a new business or maintaining/expanding your existing business?
We provide services and resources to businesses located in the Township of Adjala-Tosorontio, Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury, Township of Essa, Town of Innisfil and Town of New Tecumseth.
Our resources include:
You can contact a Business Development Officer to explore these resources through telephone, email or by dropping into the office.
Business Tools
The following are online resources that were specifically highlighted as essential tools for business. Click on the links to access the webpage.
Entrepreneurial Self Assessment
Take this assessment to find out if your spirits, attitudes and personal views are fit to that of a successful entrepreneur.
Step by Step Guide to Starting a Business
This guide will lead you to information that will help you get started on the right foot.
Business Plans
Use this link to find templates and samples of business plans.
Forms of Business Structure
This link will provide you with information on the different types of business structures: sole proprietorship, partnerships, corporations and cooperatives.
Name Registration
This link will take you to the first page of the OBC Integrated Business Services Application to register your business. It cost $8.00 to search for a business name and $60.00 to register. Please note: you will need a credit card to complete this application.
Taxes and GST
Find quick links to electronic tax services.
Permits and Licenses
Use BizPal to select your industry and discover what permits and licenses you may require operating your business.
Financing your Business
Exploring this website will help you source financial assistance through government and private sector loans.
Business Standards
Learn about standards that your business can follow to improve your product or service or increase your productivity. You can access Canadian Association Standards, Employment Standards, Standards Alerts and how to make your business accessible to those with disabilities.
Market Research Approaches
This document will help you understand market research and will inform you on effective approaches: surveys, focus groups, personal interviews, contextual inquiry, task analysis and usability testing.
Canadian Marketing Association
Explore the CMA website to discover Canada's major business sectors, and all marketing disciplines, channels and technologies.
Copyright and Intellectual Property
Learn how to protect your business through patents, trade-marks, copyright, industrial design and integrated circuit topographies.
Regulations for Specific Business Activities
Importing, exporting, marketing, managing employees, transporting goods, and more are all key business activities that have regulations you need to know.
Franchising
Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of owning a franchise. You can also access a search tool that can help you find franchise opportunities.
Employment Insurance for the Self Employed
Follow this link to learn more about employment insurance for the self employed.
Labor Market Information
The Government of Canada reports wages and saleries as of 2010.
Credit Counseling Canada
Get education and guidance in money management, credit and debt situations.
Canadian Company Capabilities
This is a directory of 60,000 Canadian Businesses. You will find comprehensive information on contacts, products, services, trade experience, and technology.
Canadian Importers Database
CID provides lists of companies importing goods into Canada, by product, by city and by country of origin.
Consumer Search
Search through product categories and find complete reviews on top rated products, based on experts and users.
The Canadian Council of Better Business Bureau
This site is used to report fraud and resolve complaints.
Consumer Protection
This site is full of information to educate, protect and serve Ontario consumers for a fair, safe and informed marketplace.
Canadian Consumer Information Gateway
Take advantage of these consumer tools, services and information. This site helps you file a complaint; explore consumer challenges and solutions; consumer policies and research; and other resources for business.
Business Enterprise Resource Network of Barrie - South Simcoe Inc
This is another information and resource centre that can help you get your business started.
Community Links
Follow this link to explore many more online resources available to you.
