Directory – Support programs and services

Aboriginal Youth Entrepreneurship Program

Martin Family Initiative

If you are an entrepreneurial aboriginal student entering the last 2 years of high school, you could learn how to create a product-based and service-driven business with help from experienced business mentors, including Indigenous business owners.

Your training will include:

• Curriculum based on provincial business courses, supplemented with Indigenous content
• Case studies and examples of successful Canadian Indigenous business leaders
• Guest speakers, field trips to businesses, competitions, and simulations

Learn more

AgPal

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

If your business operates in the agriculture or agri-business industry, this tool offers information on government programs and services that can help you start, manage, and grow your business.

Simply enter information about your location and business type to get a customized list of the resources available to you from different levels of government.

Learn more

Applying as a business immigrant

Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Diversité et de l'Inclusion

Do you want to settle in Quebec? If so, you will find the information you need and the procedure to follow for eligibility as a business class nominee.

To be selected, you must meet the requirements of one of three immigration programs for business people:

• Investor, if you have experience in management and are willing and able to make an investment of $800,000.
• Entrepreneur, if you wish to create or buy a business.
• Self-Employed Worker, if you plan on practising a profession or trade for yourself.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Business Number (BN)

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

Your Business Number is a nine-digit account number that identifies your business to federal, provincial, and municipal governments. You can open several different accounts for your business through a single registration. The accounts include:

• GST/HST
• Payroll deductions
• Corporate income tax
• Import/export

Businesses located in Quebec must register for the GST/HST with Revenu Québec. There may be additional business registration requirements in your province or territory.

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Visit the Canadian Intellectual Property Office website to learn about intellectual property and how to use various IP mechanisms to safeguard your original ideas, inventions and artistic creations. The site includes descriptions, tutorials, application forms and databases relating to:

• Patents
• Trade-marks
• Copyrights
• Industrial design
• Integrated circuit topographies

Stay in touch with the latest developments at CIPO by registering to the free email subscription services that interest you.

Learn more Find contacts

Consulting services — Quebec

info entrepreneurs

Take the opportunity to meet with an experienced professional, in confidence and at an affordable rate, to launch your business project or manage your business's growth.

Analyse your situation and identify your needs by talking to:

• An advisor in business plan management to determine your idea's potential
• An accountant to ask questions about bookkeeping, administrative systems, payment of wages, etc.
• A lawyer to ask questions on the legal structure of a business and other legal matters

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Create and maintain a federal not-for-profit corporation

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Corporations Canada

To set up a new federal not-for-profit corporation, incorporate under the new Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act.

Learn more about:  

• Your filing obligations
• Creating by-laws
• Financial statements and service standards

Several documents and tools are available to assist you in creating and operating a not-for-profit corporation.

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Federal business incorporation

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Corporations Canada

You can incorporate your business federally in one of the following ways:

• Online, using the Online Filing Center (for $200)
• On paper by mail or by facsimile (fax), or email (for $250)

Before completing the incorporation process, you will need to complete a NUANS name search to submit with your application to incorporate.

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Futurpreneur Canada

Futurpreneur Canada

Are you a young entrepreneur aged 18 to 39? You could be hand-matched with a Futurpreneur mentor to help your business succeed.

Benefits of having a mentor:

• Gain valuable business advice from an experienced entrepreneur
• Networking

Criteria to become a mentor:

• Minimum of 5 years of entrepreneurship experience
• Work for a minimum of 4 hours per month over two years

Other conditions apply.

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Invest in Canada

Global Affairs Canada

Are you a foreigner thinking about investing in Canada, or expanding your business operations into Canada? This website offers information on our industries and regions and what you need to do to start a business in Canada. You will find guidance on incentives, regulations and taxation. If you need more information, you can contact an investment officer.

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Registered charity

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

If your organization is eligible, there may be some tax advantages to registering it as a charity. You may be able to:

• Be exempt from paying income tax
• Get a GST/HST exemption
• Issue official donation receipts for gifts you receive

To be eligible:

• Your charity's resources must be devoted to charitable activities.
• It must be located in Canada.
• The income cannot benefit the charity's members.
• The charity must benefit the public.

To register your organization as a charity, you must incorporate it or make sure it is governed by a trust or constitution that explains its purpose and structure.

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Starting a business program

Entrepreneuriat Québec

Would you like to start, buy or reboot a business? You could benefit from customized training and professional support to develop your entrepreneurial skills.

You could get help to:

• Validate and develop a business project
• Create a business plan
• Perform market analysis
• Learn management concepts

The maximum training period is 22 weeks, depending on your availability.

The cost of training is covered by the Ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement supérieur; however, some fees do apply.

Learn more Find contacts

Aboriginal Business & Entrepreneurship Skills Training

Aboriginal Best

If you are an aboriginal entrepreneur interested in becoming self-employed or starting your own business, you can access training and support through partnerships with experienced team members.

Services provided include training in:

• Proposal writing
• Strategic planning
• Financial literacy
• Leadership

Project management and consulting services are also available.

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Accompagnement-conseil stratégique

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

Your business could benefit from customized services to meet challenges such as:

• Growth management
• Expansion planning
• Strategic analysis
• Financial statement stabilization

You could receive free support to:

• Analyze your business functions
• Plan an appropriate intervention
• Prepare and implement an action plan

Learn more (in French only)

Advance rulings for tariff classification

Canada Border Services Agency

You can formally request this service to confirm which tariffs will apply to the goods you plan to import and how much customs duty you will need to pay. The service also helps you obtain the 10-digit tariff classification number for your goods.

Apply at least 120 days before you import. You'll receive a written statement that you can quote in your customs paperwork.

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Aerospace

National Research Council Canada

If your business is aerospace-related, you can get help to develop, research, and commercialize your ideas. Access high-tech facilities and expertise in fields such as:

• Aerodynamics
• Flight research
• Gas turbines
• Structures  and materials
• Manufacturing

Get help in developing your technology solutions for the following market segments:

• Aeronautical product development
• Air defence
• Civilian unmanned aircraft systems
• Icing risk reduction
• Work and travel on an aircraft

Learn more

AgPal

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

If your business operates in the agriculture or agri-business industry, this tool offers information on government programs and services that can help you start, manage, and grow your business.

Simply enter information about your location and business type to get a customized list of the resources available to you from different levels of government.

Learn more

Agreement on Ontario-Quebec Construction Labour Mobility

Ministry of Labour

Under the agreement you have the right to equal access to bid for or work on construction projects in Ontario and Quebec. The agreement covers a variety of activities, including:

• Enforcement of Ontario and Quebec statutes
• General contracting
• Specialized contracting
• Contract tendering
• Trade activities
• Certification

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Agri-Food trade services for exporters

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Get help to access new markets for your agricultural, agri-food, fish or seafood products.

This service can provide you with:

• Market information
• Trade assistance
• Export support activities

Learn more

Alberta Purchasing Connection

Service Alberta

By using this online tool, find opportunities to sell your products and/or services to the Government of Alberta, municipalities, academic institutions, school boards, and health regions.

You can register for free and download the documents necessary to become a vendor and bid on purchasing opportunities.

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Applying as a business immigrant

Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Diversité et de l'Inclusion

Do you want to settle in Quebec? If so, you will find the information you need and the procedure to follow for eligibility as a business class nominee.

To be selected, you must meet the requirements of one of three immigration programs for business people:

• Investor, if you have experience in management and are willing and able to make an investment of $800,000.
• Entrepreneur, if you wish to create or buy a business.
• Self-Employed Worker, if you plan on practising a profession or trade for yourself.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Travel Card

Canada Border Services Agency

Do you often travel to the Asia-Pacific region on business? Use this card to speed up the border clearance process when visiting participating members (countries) of the Cooperation.

To apply for the card, you must:

• Be a Canadian citizen
• Be a member of NEXUS

There is a $75 fee for a 3-year membership card.

Other conditions apply.

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BDC Business Coaching

Business Development Bank of Canada

BDC's Business Coaching service offers entrepreneurs guidance in all areas of their business. You'll be matched with the coach best-suited to your business needs.

BDC's Business Coaching can help you:

• Identify the root cause of persistent problems
• Address issues in a timely and effective manner
• Gain the knowledge to become self-sufficient
• Grow your business and profit in the long-term

Learn more Find contacts

BDC certification consulting services

Business Development Bank of Canada

Are you looking to give your business more credibility and increase customer confidence in your products or services? Let the specialists at BDC's consulting services guide your company through each stage of certification for:

• Quality management
• Food safety
• Environmental management
• Occupational health and safety

Learn more

BDC Integrated Sales and Marketing advisory services

Business Development Bank of Canada

Whether you are a start-up entrepreneur or own an established business, the BDC's results-based framework gets your sales and marketing channels working together for maximum success.

BDC can help you:

• Understand your potential using:
  • Market intelligence
  • Sales and marketing diagnostic
  • Digital marketing diagnostic
• Develop your assets with:
  • Website power
  • Brand influence
• Attract customers by:
  • Creating a communications strategy
  • Establishing a sales plan

Learn more Find contacts

BDC International growth advisory services

Business Development Bank of Canada

BDC's International Growth Program offers a complete solution to help ensure your expansion and exporting projects produce the positive results you're looking for.

BDC's 3-step program will help you:

• Evaluate your potential for foreign expansion
• Select the right international market
• Develop your market entry plan

Learn more Find contacts

BDC operational efficiency advisory services

Business Development Bank of Canada

You can turn things around — with a smarter approach to manufacturing. The BDC's operational efficiency experts will guide you through the implementation of best practices and a culture of continuous improvement, laying the foundation for long-term success.

The 3-step program will:

• Evaluate your operations optimization potential
• Implement the optimization fundamentals
• Identify where rapid improvements are needed

Learn more Find contacts

BDC technology advisory services

Business Development Bank of Canada

Discover how to maximize your ICT investment with BDC's technology advisory services. Experienced professionals follow a strategic framework to identify your best opportunities allowing you to:

• Leverage past and current investments in ICT
• Assess the merits of investing in new technology
• Plan ICT deployment based on growth and profitability drivers
• Help you select software that best fits your business

Learn more Find contacts

Become an exporter

Canadian Commercial Corporation

You could get help exporting your materials and services to governments around the world in the sectors of infrastructure and defence. 

You need to:

• Be Canadian
• Have been in business for a minimum of 2 years
• Be financially stable
• Have managerial and technical experience
• Have contacts in the targeted country
• Have experience selling to the sector you are targeting

Once you have been assessed, you will be informed of potential projects for which you are qualified. The contract price and delivery will be backed by the Government of Canada.

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Business opportunities in development and humanitarian aid markets

Global Affairs Canada

Development and humanitarian aid markets represent significant opportunities to export your products and services. This website will help you understand:

• How projects are developed and carried out
• How development and humanitarian procurement works
• Where you can find detailed information about procurement
• How you can identify potential opportunities for your business

Learn more Find contacts

Canada Brand

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

If you produce, package, or market Canadian agri-food, agriculture products, fish or seafood, you could increase sales by adding the Canada Brand to those goods.

You can get permission to use the Canada Brand graphics and photos on your labels and promotional material if your:

• Business is Canadian
• Foods were originally grown or harvested in Canada
• Ingredients (either domestic or foreign) have been transformed into a new product in Canada

You still need to have a brand name for your product. The Canada Brand only shows that your product was grown or made in Canada.

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Canada Post — Solutions for Small Business

Canada Post

Find out about business solutions offered by Canada Post that can help your small business with:

• Shipping: Send your mail or packages worldwide
• E-commerce: Support your online sales
• Marketing: Target the customers you are trying to reach

You will need to register to access discounts that may help your business save money.

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Canada Tariff Finder

Government of Canada

This free tool allows exporters to check tariffs applicable to a specific good for countries with which Canada has a free trade agreement.

How does it work?

• Select the country you wish to export to
• Look up your product using keywords or Harmonized System (HS) codes
• Compare tariffs between markets
• Print your results or receive them by e-mail.

Learn more

Canada's law on spam and other electronic threats

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Do you use electronic channels to promote or market your business or non-profit-organization? Canada's anti-spam law may affect you.

If you send electronic messages or install software programs on computers or mobile devices find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding:

• Obtaining consent
• Identifying your business
• Providing an unsubscribe mechanism

Learn more

Canadian Commercial Corporation

Canadian Commercial Corporation

If you are thinking of selling to foreign governments, the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) can help your business with some key challenges:

• Accessing foreign government buyers
• Gaining a competitive advantage
• Navigating complex foreign government markets and reducing risks
• Speeding up the process of selling to foreign governments

To qualify, you must:

• Be Canadian
• Have been in business for at least 2 years
• Be financially stable
• Have relevant technical, managerial, and selling experience

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Canadian Copyrights Database

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Search this database to determine whether an original literary, dramatic, musical or artistic work has been copyrighted, and who holds the copyright.

Some of the search options include:

• Title
• Author
• Category
• Year of publication

Copyrights registered prior to 1991 are available in microfiche, index card and microfilm formats, and can be obtained from the Canadian Intellectual Property Office.

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Canadian Industrial Designs Database

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Search this regularly updated collection of registered Canadian industrial designs. You can find out if your design has already been registered, view designs, and find out who to contact if you are interested in licensing a design.

You can perform a quick search, or refine your search based on various criteria such as:

• Title
• Classification text or code
• Current owner
• Description
• Registration number

Learn more Find contacts

Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Visit the Canadian Intellectual Property Office website to learn about intellectual property and how to use various IP mechanisms to safeguard your original ideas, inventions and artistic creations. The site includes descriptions, tutorials, application forms and databases relating to:

• Patents
• Trade-marks
• Copyrights
• Industrial design
• Integrated circuit topographies

Stay in touch with the latest developments at CIPO by registering to the free email subscription services that interest you.

Learn more Find contacts

Canadian Patent Database

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Before you start working on an invention, search the database containing over 2 million patents dating from 1869 to the present. Save time and money by determining whether or not your idea or invention has already been registered in Canada.

You can also use the database to:

• Explore new business opportunities through partnerships or licensing
• Gather intelligence on competitors
• Identify trends in the sector
• Find solutions to technical problems

Learn more Find contacts

Canadian Signature Experiences

Destination Canada

Your tourism business could participate in a collection of travel experiences that will be marketed to select countries if you:

• Offer visitors a unique experience in Canada
• Have been in business for a minimum of 2 years
• Own, provide and deliver the experience yourself
• Actively market or do business in key international markets

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Canadian Technology Accelerators

Global Affairs Canada

Does your Canadian start-up offer technology products with a high growth potential? This program could temporarily incubate your business in various cities across the United States and the United Kingdom, and help you:

• Get exposure to strategic partners and customers
• Access free office space
• Refine your business plans
• Raise venture capital

Your business must operate in one of the following sectors:

• Information and communication technology
• Clean technology (cleantech)
• Life sciences

To be eligible, you must have paying customers, and you must cover your own living expenses during your stay.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Canadian Trade Commissioner Service (TCS)

Global Affairs Canada

Are you thinking about exporting or investing abroad? If so, consider taking advantage of the free services offered by Canada's trade commissioners. They can help you:

• Prepare for world markets
• Evaluate market potential
• Find qualified contacts
• Resolve problems

Located in Canada and in countries around the world, trade commissioners have the expertise to help you export, establish a partnership or invest abroad.

Learn more Find contacts

Canadian Trademarks Database

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Before you apply for a trademark, search the Canadian Trademarks Database to find out:

• If your mark qualifies as a trademark
• If your name, symbol, design or sound has already been registered by another business

Because there are many ways to search the database and finding what you are looking for may be difficult, be sure to read the Trademarks Database Tutorial before you start your search.

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CANPASS

Canada Border Services Agency

As a frequent and low-risk traveller, you can apply for access to speedier and easier entry into Canada.

Benefits depend on CANPASS type:

• Air: quicker processing at major airports
• Corporate Aircraft: access to more airports and quicker clearance
• Private Aircraft: access to more airports and faster clearance when arriving from the United States
• Private Boats: quicker clearance when arriving from the United States.

You must be a citizen or resident of Canada or the United States.

Other conditions apply.

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Centralized Professional Services ePortal

Public Services and Procurement Canada

Are you a consultant providing information technology or other professional services? If so, you can register your business in this database to access a wide variety of government contract opportunities. Some services purchased through this list are provided by:

• Human resource specialists
• Project managers
• IT technical writers
• System analysts
• Programmers

By registering yourself and the consultants in your business, you are pre-qualified to compete for many contracts.

Other conditions apply.

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Centres of Excellence for Commercialization and Research

Government of Canada

Your business can partner with not-for-profit research organizations to share knowledge, expertise and resources to bring your new technology to market faster.

Find out about your opportunities.

Learn more

Clean Growth Hub

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Whether you're in the early stages of research, conducting technology demonstration or growing your business and exporting, you can take advantage of the following clean technology focused support services offered by the Hub:

• Help in navigating federal clean technology programs and services
• Advice and information regarding policy, regulatory and procurement issues

Services are available to firms of all sizes in the clean technology space and across all sectors of the economy.

Learn more

Consulting services — Quebec

info entrepreneurs

Take the opportunity to meet with an experienced professional, in confidence and at an affordable rate, to launch your business project or manage your business's growth.

Analyse your situation and identify your needs by talking to:

• An advisor in business plan management to determine your idea's potential
• An accountant to ask questions about bookkeeping, administrative systems, payment of wages, etc.
• A lawyer to ask questions on the legal structure of a business and other legal matters

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Contract Services

Department of Highways and Public Works

You can get information on the Government of Yukon's tendering process, find out about advertised public tenders and attend tender openings on the day of closing or get information on anticipated contracts.

You can also get help if you are a subcontractor who is worried about the money a contractor owes you for work you did on a government construction contract.

Visit the website for a listing of all public invitations currently out for tender and award.

Learn more

Copyright

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Canadian Intellectual Property Office

A copyright provides protection for original artistic, dramatic, musical and literary creations, so that they are not copied, performed or broadcast without your permission. Find detailed information from the Canadian Intellectual Property Office on how to protect your creative work, including:

• A Guide to Copyright
• How to prepare your copyright application
• The Canadian Copyrights Database
• Online and printable forms
• Other resources on the Canadian copyright system

You will also links to the intellectual property offices in other countries.

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CRA BizApp

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

Get quick access to your CRA business accounts via a mobile web application. You can view outstanding balances, transactions, your GST/HST and income tax returns.

You can access the following accounts:

• Corporate income tax
• Payroll
• Excise Duty
• GST/HST

Learn more Find contacts

CRA direct deposit initiative for businesses

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

You can sign up to receive tax and payroll refunds (also rebates and credits) in a more timely and convenient manner.

To be eligible, you must:

• Have a bank account with a Canadian financial institution
• Have a business number (unless you are completing a rebate application)

Eligible business accounts include:

• GST/HST
• Payroll
• Corporation income tax
• Excise refunds and rebates

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Creation of a human resources department

Emploi Québec

Take advantage of specialized assistance to set up a human resources department.

Obtain advice to help you:

• Analyze your current HR situation
• Identify potential improvements
• Establish the mandate, and roles and responsibilities of your HR department.

This will help you:

• Recruit staff
• Manage employee training and development
• Ensure that you apply human resources legislation and standards.

Financial assistance may be available. Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts

CSA Regulatory Sandbox

Canadian Securities Administrators

Does your fintech organization have an innovative business model? If so, you may be eligible to register for a faster, more flexible process in order to test your products, services, or applications in the market.

Applicants are invited to contact their local securities regulator to discuss their organization's business model and applicable securities law issues.

Eligible applicants should be ready to provide live environment testing, a business plan, and a discussion of potential investor benefits.

Other conditions apply.

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Customized products and services from Statistics Canada

Statistics Canada

If you need statistical information, you can get experts to help identify your needs and recommend the best products and services to fit your budget.

These services include:

• Custom data
• Maps
• Research and analysis

The Statistical Consultation Group can offer you:

• Consultation
• Project management services
• Statistical training services

Learn more

Customs Self Assessment Program

Canada Border Services Agency

If you are an importer, carrier or registered driver, you may be able to reduce the time and cost of doing business with the Canada Border Services Agency.

Have your low-risk commercial shipments processed faster and with more efficiency at the border. If you are pre-approved, your goods may be examined less frequently than non-approved participants. To take advantage of the program, approved importers and carriers must use a registered driver to carry eligible goods into Canada by road.

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Dairy Innovation Program

Canadian Dairy Commission

You could get a milk quota to develop and produce innovative dairy products. You need to create a product that:

• Is wholly or essentially made with milk
• Contains no imported dairy ingredients
• Is new to the Canadian market

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Digital Accelerator for Innovation and Research

CANARIE

Access free cloud-based compute-and-storage resources to reduce the R&D development costs of your small or medium sized high-tech business. If your business has fewer than 500 employees, you could qualify to use this environment to:

• Design, prototype, validate new products
• Test product scalability
• Commercialize your product faster

Accepted businesses receive self-serve access to up to 4 virtual servers for up to one year. Additional services are offered at a nominal fee.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts

Doing business with the Government of Nunavut

Government of Nunavut

If you want to become a supplier of goods and services ranging from office supplies to specialized medical equipment in Nunavut you can access:

• Information on the procurement process
• Tenders and Request for Proposal (RFP) documents
• Information on Nunavummi Nangminiqaqtunik Ikajuuti (NNI Policy), the Government of Nunavut's policy to encourage Inuit and northern businesses
• A procurement how to guide

This information is free of charge.

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Doing business with the Government of the Northwest Territories

Finance

Your business may be able to sell its goods or services to the Government of the Northwest Territories.

Visit the website to find tenders and proposals offered by all departments and agencies.

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Duty Deferral Program

Canada Border Services Agency

You could qualify to import goods without paying any duties, if they are:

• Later exported in the same condition as when they were imported
• Used to produce other products for export

If you have already paid this duty, you could apply for a reimbursement.

You can also delay paying duties by storing goods for up to four years in bonded warehouses, until you are ready to enter them into the Canadian market.

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E-services for business

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

You could save time and paper by using electronic services to handle tax filing and remittance. The e-services include:

• Filing a return or paying corporate taxes
• Filing or paying GST/HST
• Registering a business
• Filing T4s or other returns
• Calculating payroll deductions
• Making a payment
• Online mail service
• Getting information on tax-related topics

If your business is located in Quebec, you must register for the GST/HST with Revenu Québec.

There may be other business registration requirements in your province or territory.

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EDC Portfolio Credit Insurance

Export Development Canada

Consider getting insurance to protect your accounts receivable against a customer that can't pay. EDC could cover 90% of your insured losses.

You can be covered when:

• A customer declares bankruptcy
• A customer refuses to accept your goods
• A customer terminates your contract before you ship
• Your export or import permit is cancelled

Other conditions apply.

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EDC Select Credit Insurance (Trade Protect)

Export Development Canada

If you export, protect your business with insurance to ensure that your get paid. EDC will cover 90% of your insured losses.

You can be covered when:

• A customer defaults on payment

• A customer declares bankruptcy

• There are issues with currency conversion

• Hostilities prevent your customer from paying

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

emerit tourism training and certification

Canadian Tourism Human Resource Council

If you operate a business in the tourism industry, you could benefit from having your managers and supervisors trained and certified. Emerit certification can improve your employees' performance, increase customer satisfaction and, ultimately, increase your bottom line.

Learn more about the training offered to the following industry groups:

• Accommodations
• Food and beverage services
• Recreation and entertainment
• Transportation
• Travel services

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Employment Insurance and Work Force Reduction program due to downsizing

Service Canada

As an employer, you may have to restructure your enterprise to remain competitive. As a last resort, this may include reducing your overall number of employees.

Service Canada can help you by allowing your employees to qualify for employment insurance benefits when they agree to leave their jobs to preserve the jobs of co-workers.

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ENERGY STAR certification

Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN)

If you are a manufacturer, a retailer, or a new home builder, you could qualify for ENERGY STAR certification.

The ENERGY STAR initiative promotes energy efficiency and aims to help fight climate change.

Benefits include:

• Certification of products
• ENERGY STAR certified new homes
• Energy benchmarking for commercial and institutional buildings
• Recognition of industry energy performance

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Environmental technology verification

Environment and Climate Change Canada

You can apply to have your new technology evaluated to prove that it is good for the environment. This could:

• Help you get your new product accepted in other countries
• Prove to investors that your product is ecological
• Give you access to a network of environmental experts
• Provide you with a verification certificate recognized by the Government of Canada
• Give you a licence to use the ETV Verified Logo

See website for cost and contacts.

Learn more

EUREKA

National Research Council Canada

Are you looking to accelerate your R&D and pre-commercialization projects? This international innovation network can help you:

• Gain market intelligence
• Access new markets through technology partnering
• Identify strategic technologies and business partners
• Discover business opportunities

The network includes over 40 economies from Europe, Israel, and South Korea. You can access EUREKA through the national office in Canada.

Learn more

Export Distribution Centre Program

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

If your non-manufacturing business adds limited value to goods in the course of processing or distribution activities, you might not have to pay GST/HST when you:

• Acquire or import most inventory or parts
• Import a customer's goods for processing

To participate in the program, you need to request an authorization certificate. The certificate is valid for 3 years, unless revoked, and can be renewed.

You must be export-ready and registered for GST/HST to apply.

Learn more

Exporters of Processing Services Program

Canada Border Services Agency

Does your Canadian manufacturing service company assemble or process imported goods, with the sole purpose of exporting them later? If so, you might be able to import certain goods without paying GST or HST.

To qualify, you must:

• Be registered for the GST or HST
• Not own the imported or processed goods
• Not be closely related to the supplier outside of Canada for whom you are processing the goods

Apply in writing to your local Canada Revenue Agency tax services office. If you are allowed to participate in the program, you will get a letter of authorization. Bring this letter to your local Canada Border Services Agency office to obtain a certificate number for use on your import documentation.

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Express Entry

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

If you are a Canadian employer, you can hire Express Entry candidates to meet your labour needs when you are not able to find Canadians or permanent residents to fill job vacancies.

This program will allow you to have a direct role in hiring pre-screened foreign workers to meet the specific needs of your business.

Skilled immigrants can be recruited from 3 federal economic immigration programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
• Canadian Experience Class

Express Entry candidates with a valid job offer or provincial/territorial nomination will quickly receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence with processing times of 6 months or less.

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Farm Debt Mediation Service

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

As a farmer having trouble meeting your financial obligations, you may be able to use the services of a mediator. You and your creditor can meet in a neutral setting to find a mutually acceptable solution.

You are eligible if you farm commercially and you meet one of the following criteria:

• You can't make your payments on time.
• The value of your property, if sold, is not enough to cover your debts.

The service is:

• Free
• Voluntary
• Private and confidential
• An alternative to going to court

A financial consultant can help you develop a recovery plan before you meet with your creditor and a mediator.

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Finding tomorrow's workers: Provide exploration and observation internships in your business

Emploi Québec

Show your social commitment by providing workplace exploration and observation internships for youth up to 25 years of age.

Your business could receive:

• Assistance to create high quality internships
• Applications from youth interested in undertaking an internship
• Potential support to help young people enter the job market
• Visibility and public recognition

You will need to assign someone within your organization to monitor and follow up with the interns.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts

FleetSmart - Greening Freight Programs

Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN)

Are you a professional driver or do you operate a fleet of trucks, buses, or other vehicles? You can reduce your operating costs by reducing fuel consumption.

Get free training and publications on various topics, including:

• SmartDriver: learn about best practices by type of vehicle
• Fuel Management 101: create a plan and benchmark your usage

Learn more Find contacts

For Industry: Canada Consumer Product Safety Act

Health Canada

If you manufacture, import, distribute or sell products, even if the goods are second-hand, you must ensure that your products are safe. You need to:

• Supply only products that are safe and correctly labelled
• Avoid products listed in schedule 2 of the Act
• Keep records of purchases and sales to trace the origin of unsafe products
• Report unsafe products that endanger the life or health of consumers

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection

Global Affairs Canada

These agreements protect your foreign investments in various countries and help you receive the same treatment as a domestic investor. They ensure that:

• You obtain prompt and adequate compensation if your investments are expropriated
• You receive at least the minimum standard of treatment established in customary international law
• You are free to invest capital and repatriate your investments and returns

Learn more

Free and Secure Trade

Canada Border Services Agency

By having your business confirmed as low-risk, you could benefit from faster border crossings.

• You must first undergo a risk assessment.
• If approved for the program, your eligible goods — which are transported by approved carriers using registered drivers — are cleared into Canada or the United States with greater speed.
• Trade data declarations and verifications are done later, away from the border.
• Drivers can use dedicated lanes established at major border crossings for faster and more efficient border clearance.

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Global patent protection: Patent Prosecution Highway

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Fast-track your patent application in a participating country once another participating country's IP office has approved your claim.

For example, if your patent claim has been approved by Canada's intellectual property office, you can request that a corresponding claim in the U.S. or China be expedited at no extra cost.

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Human resources management support

Emploi Québec

Take advantage of HR management support services and obtain an analysis of your business' needs in the following areas:

• Staff recruitment and performance
• Salary structure and working conditions
• Diversity management
• Skills development

The services offered are:

• Business diagnostics
• Management coaching (advice and strategies)
• Support for setting up a consultation committee
• Management support (HR acquisition and retention)

You may receive financial assistance of up to 50% of the cost of professional fees.

Other conditions apply.

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Import and export for SMEs

Canada Border Services Agency

Find resources designed to help you follow the rules when you import or export, including:

• Checklists and guides
• Import and export reference tools
• Information on tariffs and trade incentive programs

Learn more

Indigenous Business Directory

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Find or register an Indigenous business in this searchable database available to industry and the federal procurement community.

By registering as a supplier, you:

• Increase your visibility and procurement opportunities
• Help federal government procurement managers identify Aboriginal businesses

To be included in the Directory, you must meet the eligibility criteria of the Procurement Strategies for Aboriginal Business.

Learn more

Industrial designs

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Protect the intellectual property of an industrial design that you have created, such as the shape, configuration and pattern applied to a finished product made by hand, tool or machine.

Find detailed information from the Canadian Intellectual Property Office on how to protect your industrial design, including:

• A guide to industrial designs
• The application process
• The Canadian Industrial Designs Database
• Online and printable application forms
• Other resources concerning the protection of industrial designs

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Innu Business Development Centre

Innu Business Development Centre

As an Innu entrepreneur or a company wishing to do business with the Innu, you can:

• Register your business in the Innu Business Registry
• Get help with contracts
• Find Innu companies with which to partner or from whom to buy goods and services

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Insurance solutions for exporters

Export Development Canada

If you are an exporter or have operations overseas, you can protect your business from commercial and political risks by choosing from a variety of insurance solutions, depending on your needs:

• Accounts Receivable (international sales)
• Trade Protect (small number of customers)
• Contract Frustration (specific contracts)
• Political Risk (overseas assets, including equipment and factory)
• Performance Security (surety bonds)

Rates vary, depending on products or services sold, shipping location, and the terms of payment.

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Integrated Circuit Topographies

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Integrated circuit topography refers to the three-dimensional configuration of the electronic circuits used in microchips and semiconductor chips. Have you created an original integrated topography? Learn how to protect it as your intellectual property.

Find detailed information on integrated circuit topographies from the Canadian Intellectual Property Office, including:

• The Guide to Integrated Circuit Topographies
• Online and printable forms
• Legislation
• Frequently asked questions

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Integrated Work Experience Strategy (IWES)

Information and Communications Technology Council

If your business is looking for an ICT professional, this organization has qualified internationally-educated candidates who:

• Have recent business, networking and volunteer experience in Canada
• Have been rigorously screened and selected for the program based on employment-readiness and have completed a highly intensive training program

As a participating employer, you will have the first opportunity to review their resumes and interview them. If you find a match, you can hire them as employees on your team.

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International Events and Convention Services Program

Canada Border Services Agency

Are you organizing an event in Canada such as a convention, meeting, trade show or exhibition? If delegates or goods are expected from other countries, this service can help you identify border requirements and procedures such as:

• Controlled goods that need import or export permits
• Tariffs and sales taxes that will apply to imported goods
• Entry visas for participants

The service can also make you aware of other border related programs that may benefit your event.

Contact the service early on in your planning.

Learn more

Invest in Canada

Global Affairs Canada

Are you a foreigner thinking about investing in Canada, or expanding your business operations into Canada? This website offers information on our industries and regions and what you need to do to start a business in Canada. You will find guidance on incentives, regulations and taxation. If you need more information, you can contact an investment officer.

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Job Bank

Service Canada

The job opportunities you post to the Job Bank will be seen by thousands of job seekers across Canada, giving you a large pool of candidates from which to choose.

The service is fast, easy and free! You will be provided with a list of qualified candidates who have the skill set that matches your job posting, allowing you to hire the best person for the job.

Once registered, you can choose from a variety of handy features.

You can also find answers to some common questions about human resources management.

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Liaison Officer service

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

If you own a small, unincorporated business, you could get a CRA Liaison Officer to visit your business or give a group seminar to help you:

• Address tax-related questions and concerns
• Avoid common income tax errors
• Understand various CRA tools and services
• Strengthen your bookkeeping system, and employ best practices

A visit from a Liaison Officer does not constitute an audit, and will not result in the CRA making reassessments to past tax filings.

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Licensing opportunities

National Research Council Canada

You can partner with R&D experts to commercialize their existing patented technologies.

You can also get help to develop a solid, integrated and market-ready solution to draw investment and drive revenue.

Your business must be Canadian-based.

Learn more

Managing my business program

Entrepreneuriat Québec

Did you start your business one year or more ago and want to boost your development? You can receive training to develop your skills and learn to:

• Better understand and control your financial data
• Better manage your time and priorities
• Hire competent, engaged staff
• Maximize your marketing strategies
• Sell more and sell better

Some Quebec administrative regions may receive different grants.

Other conditions apply.

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MERX — Canadian Public Tenders

Public Services and Procurement Canada

Using MERX you can access contracting opportunities from:

• Provincial and territorial governments
• Municipalities
• Academic institutions and school boards
• Hospitals
• The private sector
• The construction sector
• The United States government

The dollar value of individual contracts ranges from hundreds of dollars to millions. You can search the MERX database for open tenders and order bid documents.

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NEXUS

Canada Border Services Agency

Do you often travel to the United States on business? You could use this card to speed up the border clearance process.

To be eligible, you must:

• Be a citizen or permanent resident of Canada or the United States
• Meet certain criteria regarding your legal and criminal history

If you have a NEXUS card, you can use self-serve kiosks at major airports, and special lanes when you travel by land. When you travel by boat, you can call border officers before you arrive.

There is a $50 fee for a five-year membership card.

Learn more Form(s)

NRC research facilities

National Research Council Canada

You can use research facilities to test and develop your innovative products and technologies. You can also get help from experts to conduct your R&D activities in fields such as:

• Agriculture and aquaculture
• Astronomy and astrophysics
• Construction
• Defense and security
• Energy, mining and environment
• Health sciences
• Information and communications technologies
• Measurement science
• Transportation

Learn more

NRC Technical and advisory services

National Research Council Canada

Has your company done work to adapt and exploit a technology? Take advantage of a wide range of specialized services offered by a respected research centre.

These technical services cover a variety of fields and can include:

• testing and evaluating the technology;
• simulations and creating prototypes;
• modelling;
• analysis;
• consultations.

Learn more

NUANS Corporate name search

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Corporations Canada

Use this corporate name search tool to compare your proposed business name to those of existing corporations and trade-marks.

You will need a NUANS report to incorporate your business federally, and to incorporate in most provinces and territories as well.

The cost of creating your own NUANS report is $21.47 plus applicable taxes. If you request professional assistance to create a report, the cost varies.

Currently, the province of Quebec does not provide data for NUANS. If you are doing business, or plan to do business in the province of Quebec, you should search Quebec's Enterprise Register, Quebec's database of corporations.

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Office of Small and Medium Enterprises

Public Services and Procurement Canada

Do you want to sell your products or services to the Government of Canada? If so, you can access resources including:

• A guide to doing business with the Government of Canada
• A list of government sites that can help you find procurement opportunities
• Information on upcoming seminars

Learn more Find contacts

Opération branchons les PME

Branchons les PME

Obtain the free services of an electronic commerce intern to configure your transaction site and help create your online shop.

You could receive help to:

• Create your product categories and sheets
• Optimize your marketing and search engine hits
• Have your images professionally retouched
• Activate delivery and payment methods
• Manage your electronic business (sales, inventory, payment, delivery, etc.).

You will have to pay the costs of hosting your online shop.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Partners in Protection

Canada Border Services Agency

Participation in this voluntary and free program can help improve your business' security levels and establish your reputation as a secure, low-risk business for cross-border trade.

Membership is required for participation in the Free and Secure Trade program, which makes the shipment of low-risk commercial goods into Canada simpler and subject to fewer delays.

To apply, Canadian importing and exporting businesses of good standing agree to undergo a security check.

Learn more Form(s)

Patents

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Find detailed information on how to protect your invention or the improvements you've made to an existing invention.

The site includes:

• A guide to patents
• A tutorial on preparing a patent application
• Application forms
• Access to the Canadian Patents Database
• Access to the listing of new patents via the Canadian Patent Office Record
• Other resources on the Canadian patent system

You will also find links to patent offices in other countries.

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PEI tender opportunities

Department of Finance

This procurement service website provides you with a list of open tenders with the provincial government and other Prince Edward Island organizations. The majority of the official bid documents are available for download free of charge.

Learn more

Performance Security Insurance

Export Development Canada

If your business is active in the competitive international marketplace, EDC can insure up to 95% of your losses if a customer wrongfully calls a letter of guarantee or if a call is triggered by you not being able to meet your obligations due to specific political risks.

Eligibility is determined by EDC based on:

• Review of the letter of guarantee
• Conditions and economic outlook in your customer’s country, and the customer's profile

Other conditions apply.

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Pre-Qualified Innovations

Public Services and Procurement Canada

If you are interested in the proposal process with the Build in Canada Innovation Program for your innovation, you can find:

• Details on how to prepare to submit your proposal
• A list of priority areas
• Information about the review process for proposal submissions
• Past calls for proposals and the status of pre-qualified innovators from various industries

Conditions apply.

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Price Pooling Program

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

If you are an agricultural producer and a member of an agricultural marketing agency that participates in this price guarantee program, you could get protection against unexpected drops in market prices.

Other benefits include:

• Initial payment upon product delivery
• Locked-in minimum rate return (price guarantee)
• Equal returns for products of like grade, variety and type
• Ability to sell products during better market conditions (better price)

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Form(s)

Procurement Services (Nova Scotia)

Procurement Services

You can get all of the tools you need to help sell your goods and services to the provincial government through this online vendor toolkit, including:

• Public sector purchasing contacts directory
• Tender Opportunities Notification Service sign-up
• Procurement how-to guides
• Information on workshops, reverse trade shows, and on-site visits

In addition, find tenders offered by other provincial governments in Canada.

Learn more Find contacts

Procurement Services – New Brunswick Opportunities Network

Government Services

Find opportunities to sell your products or services to the Government of New Brunswick and to public sector bodies, such as municipalities, hospital corporations, crown corporations, universities, regional landfill corporations, and the Atlantic Lottery Corporation. This site can help you:

• Learn about the procurement process
• Register free of charge
• Obtain official tender documents for goods and services, as well as tender notices for transportation and building construction

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Procurement Strategy for Aboriginal Business

Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada

If you are Aboriginal and want to sell to the Government of Canada, find out how you can apply for government contracts that are only for Aboriginal businesses.

To bid on contracts that are only for Aboriginal businesses, you need to:

• Live in Canada
• Own at least 51% of your business
• Be registered in the Aboriginal Business Directory

Other conditions apply.

Check the website to find out how to register with the Supplier Registration Information service to bid on all government contracts.

Learn more

Procurement — Yukon Government

Department of Highways and Public Works

You can compete for Yukon government publicly-advertised tenders or contract directly with the government.

If you are interested in being a supplier and selling to the Government of Yukon, you should ensure that your business is listed on the Tender Management System.

Learn more

Programme COREX

Fédération des chambres de commerce du Québec

Find out how to better target your markets and access key resources to accelerate the growth of your business south of the border.

The Programme COREX is divided in 5 sections, namely:

• Can I export — Export diagnostic and business plan
• Choosing a trade corridor — 7 corridors and their assets
• Finding business opportunities — Suppliers, trading partners
• Establishing your business in the trade corridors — Prospecting, market penetration
• Accessing resources — Videos, events, training, publications, organizations

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

R&D collaborations

Communications Research Centre Canada (CRC)

You could license and commercialize existing advanced communication technologies that are already patented and protected.

You can also get help from experts at Communications Research Centre Canada to research and test your innovative communication technologies.

Help is available in the form of:

• Collaborative R&D
• Consulting services
• Access to laboratories and testbeds

Learn more

Record of Employment on the Web (ROE Web)

Service Canada

You must complete a Record of Employment (ROE) whenever there is an interruption of employee earnings. The ROE must be issued even if your employee has no intention of filing a claim for EI benefits. ROE Web is a secure Web-based application that enables you to create, submit and print 53-week ROEs via the Internet.

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Regional export promotion organizations (ORPEX)

Ministère de l'Économie et de l'Innovation

Do you have export, diversification or consolidation projects for your Quebec business? If so, you could benefit from coaching, training and consulting services from one of these regional organizations to help you:

• Achieve an export initiative
• Structure your sales project on a market outside Quebec

Contact the ORPEX office nearest you to learn more about the services offered.

Certain conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only) Find contacts (in French only)

Register as a supplier

Public Services and Procurement Canada

Are you interested in selling to the federal government? Register free of charge to receive a procurement business number and make your business name and supply capabilities widely available to federal government buyers.

To register for the Supplier Registration Information database, you must have:

• A business number or a GST/HST number
• Your legal name registered with Canada Revenue Agency

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Research programs and collaboration opportunities

National Research Council Canada

If you are looking for ways to commercialize your R&D, the National Research Council offers a variety of collaborative research opportunities. You may be able to access expertise and equipment to help speed up your commercial development.

Some of the advantages to these partnership opportunities include access to:

• Technology
• Expertise
• Employee training
• Facilities
• Marketing

Learn more

Revenu Québec : Assistance program for SMEs

Revenu Québec

If you own an SME, or are self-employed, you could receive personalized support to help answer your questions about tax returns, source deductions, consumption taxes, and income taxes.

The program could help you:

• Understand your tax rights and obligations
• Get information about the credits you may be entitled to
• Register and use of online services
• Benefit from a summary analysis of books and accounting records.

Other conditions apply.

Learn more Find contacts

SaskTenders

Ministry of Central Services

By registering with SaskTenders, you will be able to search, review and download requests for tenders (competitions) from the Government of Saskatchewan for all types of goods and services.

You can search the database by date, competition number, organization, sector and much more. Registration is free.

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SELECT

Public Services and Procurement Canada

Do you provide construction, architectural or engineering services or related maintenance and consulting services? Register in this database to become an approved supplier to the Government of Canada to compete for:

• Real property consulting contracts up to $89,600
• Construction services contracts up to $100,000

Other conditions apply.

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Selling to the BC Government

British Columbia Procurement Services

Learn more about how you can to sell to the BC Government, including:

• How to access BC Bid and respond to a bid opportunity
• How to review current BC Bid opportunities
• How to register as a supplier

Learn more

Selling to the Government of Quebec

Secrétariat du Conseil du Trésor du Québec

Your business could provide goods or services and undertake construction work for the following Quebec entities:

• Provincial government departments and agencies
• Health and social services network
• Education network
• Municipalities and municipal bodies
• Crown or government corporations

Learn how to do business with each of them and register for Quebec's e-tendering system, where you can also access tender notices of other provincial governments.

Learn more

Selling to the Manitoba Government

Infrastructure and Transportation

Extend your target market by selling to the Government of Manitoba. Learn about:

• What the government buys
• Who to contact within the government
• Electronic tendering
• Marketing your goods and services to individual departments and programs

Learn more

Smart Tech

Business Development Bank of Canada

Learn about Internet and technology consulting services that can help you develop an online strategy and increase your productivity.

Internet consulting services:

• Free website assessment
• Website diagnostic
• Internet strategy services

Technology consulting services:

• Free ICT assessment
• ICT diagnostic
• System selection support

Fees may apply to select services.

Learn more

Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council — Partnerships

Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council

If you are a business owner or a member of a non-profit organization with a project in social sciences and humanities, you could partner with Canadian colleges and universities to access their knowledge, connections and talent.

You could work with researchers to help develop ideas and solutions to enhance your products and services, to expand your markets, and to increase your productivity.

See website for details.

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SR&ED Self-Assessment and Learning Tool

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

Find out if you are eligible to receive tax incentives and how you can submit your request to the Scientific Research and Experimental Development Program (SR&ED).

This PDF tool can help you:

• Learn about the SR&ED work eligibility requirements
• Assess your work and expenditures
• Structure your claim submission
• Estimate the associated SR&ED expenditures and your Investment Tax Credits

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Tax information videos, webinars, events and seminars

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

Learn how to manage various aspects of your business administration through a selection of online videos and recorded webinars for business owners. The videos and webinars cover topics such as:

• Starting a business
• GST/HST
• Payroll and preparing T4 and T4A
• Reporting business income and expenses
• Keeping Records

Visit the website to register for:

• Charities information sessions and webinars
• Scientific Research and Experimental Development program information seminars

Learn more Find contacts

Temporary Foreign Worker Program

Employment and Social Development Canada

Your business may be eligible to access a pool of foreign workers to hire on a temporary basis when Canadian citizens and permanent residents are not available.

You can hire workers under a variety of streams:

• Skilled workers
• Global talent / highly skilled workers
• Workers in high wage or low wage positions
• Agricultural workers
• Academics

Fees and conditions apply.

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Tenders — Government of Canada

Public Services and Procurement Canada

Identify opportunities to sell your products or services to the Federal Government through buyandsell.gc.ca. With this free online tendering tool, you can:

• Find opportunities (tenders, standing offers and supply arrangements)
• Follow changes to opportunities
• Reference past contracts
• Learn how to submit a proposal

The open data on the site can also help you identify potential business partners, make business decisions and write your proposal.

Learn more Find contacts

Tenders — Selling to the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador

Government of Newfoundland and Labrador

If you want to become a supplier of goods and/or services to the government of Newfoundland and Labrador, you can access:

• Information on the procurement process
• Official tender documents for goods and services
• Tender notices for construction and related services
• Most official bid documents

This information is free of charge and covers government tenders as well as those of government-funded organizations.

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Tourism toolkits

Destination Canada

Use these free toolkits to turn your tourism product into an experience that will attract business:

• Brand Toolkit — Understand how to create and use evocative images and incorporate the brand into your marketing.
• Experiences Toolkit — Learn how to create, market and deliver a memorable experience.
• Explorer Quotient™ Toolkit — Download guides to help you market to a variety of travellers.

Visit the online Brand Canada Library for access to photos, videos and logos.

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Trademarks

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Find detailed information on trademarks, which are used to protect the words, symbols and designs that distinguish your product or service from those of your competitors.

The site includes:

• A guide to trademarks
• Information on the application process
• Printable and online forms
• The Trademarks database
• The Trademarks database tutorial
• Other resources on the Canadian trademarks system

You will also find links to the intellectual property offices in other countries.

Learn more Find contacts Form(s)

Virage numérique des détaillants québécois

Conseil québécois du commerce de détail

Do you run a business with 10 to 50 employees and wish to create an online transactional site for your sales? If so, you could get free assistance for:

• Diagnostics
• The development of a personalized action plan
• A list of suppliers with whom you can work
• Coaching for the implementation of your digital strategy
• Marketing training to promote your online shop

Other conditions apply.

Learn more (in French only)

Voluntary Disclosures Program

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

Have you made mistakes on past tax forms? If you come forward voluntarily, you may avoid being penalized or prosecuted.

You can disclose mistakes relating to income tax, GST/HST, excise tax, as well as those related to the Softwood Lumber Products Export Charge Act, 2006, or the Air Travellers Security Charge Act.

A valid disclosure must:

• Be voluntary
• Be complete
• Involve the application or potential application of a penalty
• Generally include information that is more than one year overdue

Learn more

Work-Sharing

Service Canada

Avoid layoffs. If business is slow, you could offer at least 2 of your core workers a temporarily reduced work week if they are eligible for employment insurance (EI). Their wages can be supplemented through EI benefits for the days they won't be working.

You must:

• Have been in business year-round for at least 2 years
• Prove that the work shortage is temporary and unavoidable
• Show that the decrease of business activity is about 10%
• Submit a plan to be able to offer normal working hours within 6-26 weeks
• Have the approval of the employees and the union

Other conditions apply.

Learn more

Closing accounts

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

When you decide to close your business and no longer need your Business Number (BN), you need to complete certain Canada Revenue Agency forms relating to:

• Payroll
• GST/HST
• Corporate income tax

This applies to your business, whether it is a sole proprietorship, a partnership, or a corporation. Only once these forms are completed can your CRA business account be closed.

This CRA page provides details on what is required, the forms, and background publications.

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Corporations Canada: Dissolving a corporation

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

There are a few steps you must follow for the voluntary dissolution (legal termination) of your corporation. The procedure varies slightly depending on the situation. Voluntary dissolution can happen:

• Before starting operations
• Where there is no property
• Where property and liabilities have been disposed of
• After proposing liquidation and dissolution of the corporation by the directors or shareholders

Learn about the different procedures that may apply to your corporation and access the forms you need to terminate your corporation.

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Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy Canada

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy Canada

If your business is facing bankruptcy, or if you are a creditor and owed money by a failing company, you can get help.

If you are considering bankruptcy, access:

• Alternative options to bankruptcy
• Steps for declaring bankruptcy
• A directory of licensed insolvency trustees
• Answers to commonly asked questions

If you are a creditor, access:

• Options and the process for recovering some of your losses
• A directory of unclaimed dividends collected for creditors by trustees
• Answers to commonly asked questions

Other services are available, including a publication on bankruptcy mediation.

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