Starting a Business

Checklists for Franchisees
There are many opportunities available regarding franchised businesses. To add further complexity, there are many variations in the franchising methods offered. The following checklist of questions assists in making a decision about acquiring a franchise.
Glossary of Key Business Terms
A list of common business terms.
ServiceOntario - Register a Business
Register or renew a business name in Ontario and complete applications for a Retail Sales Tax Vendor Permit, Employer Health Tax, and the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. You can also search a business name registered with the Ontario Ministry of Government Services.
Start-up Resources from the Canada-Ontario Business Service Centre
Resources that will help you when starting a new business, including general start-up information, online tools and "How to" guides about starting a specific type of business.
Your Guide to Small Business
Your Guide to Small Business is designed to give entrepreneurs the tools they need to succeed. It’s not a “how to” book; it’s an information resource that will help identify the things one needs to do before, during and after launching a business. Provided by the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade.

Financing

Financing for Starting a Business
This document is designed to help you navigate through the federal and provincial government programs available to individuals starting a business in Ontario.
Sources of Financing
Find out how Canada Business can help you locate traditional or alternative sources of financing for your small business.

Employing People
When you hire a new employee, there are a few things you must do to comply with government requirements. These documents provide more information and guidance on those obligations.
How Privacy Legislation Affects Your Business
Since January 1, 2004, businesses have been subject to the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada offers the following useful information to help businesses learn how they can comply with the Act.
Innovation
Programs and resources to help your business innovate.

Ontario Occupational Licensing Gateway
The Ontario Occupational Licensing Gateway provides one-window, online access to information and forms related to occupational/business licences.
Regulations and Licences
An overview of the regulations and licensing information and requirements for businesses in Ontario.
Regulatory Registry
The Regulatory Registry is a one-stop website that makes it easier for businesses to find out about the Government of Ontario's regulatory proposals that may affect them and learn about regulations recently approved by the Lieutenant-Governor-In-Council.
SerivceOntario - BizPaL, the Online Business Permits and Licences Service
Provides businesses with one-stop access to permit and licence information, often for all levels of government.