Starting a Business in Ontario

So, you’re thinking of starting your own business.

You've picked a good place for it. Canada is one of the easiest places in the world to start a business, according to the World Bank.

Ontario has more business establishments than any other province and small businesses represent a key segment of Ontario’s economy. In fact, 98% of businesses in Ontario have fewer than 100 employees and employ close to 2.9 million Ontarians, according to Statistics Canada. They operate across all sectors, from home-based services to cutting-edge biotechs and everything in between.

To help your new business succeed, start with ONe-Source for Business. This portal will help guide you to the government services, forms and information you need to start, operate and grow your business. You can search for information that pertains to your business and locate resources from many levels of government.

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Getting Started

1. Planning a Business
   Learn about what it takes to start a new business and things to consider before you launch. Access advice and how-to guides for your specific business needs.
2. Understanding the Marketplace
   Learn how to conduct market research to find out what your customers want, who your competition is, and how industry trends may impact your business.
3. Incorporating a Business
   Find information on how to incorporate your business provincially and federally. Learn more about determining your legal structure and choosing a name for your business.
4. Registering a Business
   Learn how to register your business, apply for federal programs, and set up a business account.
5. Obtaining Financing
   Learn about what grants, incentives, loans, and subsidies are available for your business.

Operating and Growing a Business

6. Getting Permits and Licences
   Find permits or licences that apply to a specific business, location or industry.
7. Hiring and Managing Staff
   Learn about the hiring process, how to manage employees, and how to let employees go.
8. Developing Facilities and Property
   Find out how to locate and purchase vacant properties for your business, as well as purchase equipment and business vehicles.
9. Marketing and Increasing Sales
   Access resources to help you successfully market and advertise your business, sell to governments, and grow your business through importing and exporting.
10. Researching, Growing and Innovation
    Find out how you can help your business grow and innovate. Learn how you can enhance your business through e-business.
11. Greening your Business
    Learn the steps to going green. Find environmental regulations that pertain to your business as well as financial incentives to promote green business practices.
12. Finding Legal Services
    Locate legal services to manage complaints, disputes and legal issues. Search for specific laws and better understand their business implications.
13. Filing Taxes and Other Tax Information
    Get assistance in filing business taxes. Find out about tax credits, refunds and deductions associated with your industry.

Closing a Business

14. Exiting a Business
    Find step-by-step information on how to close a business. Learn how to file for bankruptcy or change industries.