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. |
Part 6 - Resources
"New entrepreneurs have to realize they need money to keep them going while they’re developing their business. They also need to do a lot of front-end research and understand that it’s very hard work to run your own business. They need to research the competition, know how to price their goods or services and understand the market. It’s better to make the mistakes on paper beforehand."
Dale Lehtila
Manager
Enterprise Quinte Belleville
The following list of resources—while by no means complete—is a solid starting point for entrepreneurs.
Ten must-visit websites
Small Business Central
Small Business Central is a service provided by the Ontario Ministry of Small Business and Entrepreneurship. It includes important government and general business information for entrepreneurs. The site also provides links to the Ministry's Small Business Enterprise Centres (SBECs) where entrepreneurs can access a wide range of support services and alerts users to networking opportunities like Bridges to Better Business.
Canada-Ontario Business Service Centre
A joint service of the federal and provincial governments, this site contains information on federal and provincial government programs, services and regulations, as well as hundreds of categorized links to both government and non-government sites. There are also a number of helpful Internet-based tools for business, including an Interactive Business Planner and Small Business Workshop.
ServiceOntario
This website provides a wide range of government information relevant to business and links to business resources and support including business registration and renewal.
Strategis
This is an Industry Canada site and it's huge. It contains information on a wide range of businesses organized by sector and provides links to major trade associations, relevant government regulations and standards organizations and trade shows. There's an excellent section on e-business, which includes a diagnostic tool to help you determine your business's e-readiness. And there's a Guide to Government of Canada Services and Support for Small Business.
BusinessGateway.ca
As the name suggests, this federal government website provides a single access point to all the government services—federal and provincial—and information needed to start, run and grow a business. It includes useful sections on human resources management, exporting/importing and selling to government.
Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
BDC has been in the business of helping entrepreneurs for more than 50 years. BDC's website contains a wealth of information for entrepreneurs at every stage of business development and provides referrals to experienced account managers and business consultants who provide customized one-on-one service.
Profitguide.com
This site is rich with information for entrepreneurs at every stage. For those in start-up mode, there's a complete start-up guide that includes an analysis of the best businesses to go into and tips on developing business plans and accessing money. For those already running a business, there's information on topics like sales and marketing, technology, human resources and exporting. And for would-be and actual entrepreneurs, there are lots of quizzes to test your abilities.
Royal Bank
Another site with lots of information for entrepreneurs including starting, managing, financing and growing a business. There are special sections geared to women and young entrepreneurs. You can also download "The Big Idea" software, which will guide you through the steps of developing a business plan.
Export Development Canada
If exporting is part of your business plan, you'll want to visit this site. There's lots of good information on how to get export ready, including an Export Able? questionnaire. The site also includes information on Export Development Canada's many services.
MERX
This website won't give you any information on how to start, finance, run or expand your company, but it's on the must-visit list because it will help you sell your goods or services to the government, a huge potential client. Billions of dollars in public sector business opportunities are tendered each year through MERX, and 80 per cent of MERX's customers are small businesses. You don't have to subscribe, but it may well be worth it because you can access the MERX Opportunity Matching service, which looks for opportunities of interest to your business and alerts you to them via fax or e-mail.
Government resources
Ministry of Small Business and Entrepreneurship
www.sbe.gov.on.ca
General Inquiries
900 Bay Street
8th Floor, Hearst Block
Toronto, ON M7A 2E1
Toll-free: 1-866-668-4249 or 1-866-ONT4BIZ
Tel: 416 325-6666
Fax: 416 325-6688
E-mail: info.sbe@ontario.ca
The Ministry’s overall goal is to promote economic growth in Ontario. Its activities include providing advisory services to help small and medium-sized enterprise grow as well as programs to encourage young people to start their own businesses. The website also provide links to sites offering information about the Ontario economy.
Ontario Business Connects
A service of the Ministry of Government Services, this website enables entrepreneurs to register or renew their business, change their business information, apply for provincial and federal programs and subscribe to a business information service.
Small Business Enterprise Centres (SBECs)
www.sbe.gov.on.ca
General Inquiries
900 Bay Street
8th Floor, Hearst Block
Toronto, ON M7A 2E1
Toll-free: 1-866-668-4249 or 1-866-ONT4BIZ
Tel: 416 325-6666
Fax: 416 325-6688
E-mail: info.sbe@ontario.ca
SBECs provide support to start-up and small enterprises during their first through fifth years of operation. Entrepreneurs are provided with easy access to one-stop business consulting services and information covering management, marketing, technology and financing. The Centres operate under the Ministry of Small Business and Entrepreneurship and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, in partnership with local municipalities. (In northern Ontario, they're coordinated by the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines.)
SBEC Locations
Business Program Information
Canada-Ontario Business Service Centre
www.cbsc.org/ontario
Toll-free: 1-800-567-2345
Hearing impaired line: 1-800-457-8466
Tel: 416-775-3456
E-mail: Ontario@cbsc.ic.gc.ca
The centre acts as an access point for information about business programs and services offered by the Ontario and federal governments. Its extensive website provides links to many other helpful sites, covering everything from exporting and importing to e-business, technology and taxation. It even offers live connections to information officers and a small business workshop.
Other Agencies or Ministries
Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO)
www.agco.on.ca
Licensing and Registration Branch
20 Dundas Street West, 7th Floor
Toronto, ON M5G 2N5
Toll-free: 1-800-522-2876
Tel: 416-326-8700
The AGCO is the provincial agency responsible for administering both the Liquor Licence Act and the Gaming Control Act. In addition to the main office in Toronto, the AGCO has a number of regional offices across the province. Contact information is available at www.agco.on.ca
Ministry of Children and Youth Services
The Ministry is responsible for funding and licensing operators, child care centres and private home child care agencies. There are regional offices across the country. For the one nearest you, check the website at www.cfcs.gov.on.ca
Ministry of Finance
www.fin.gov.on.ca
Toll-free: 1-800-263-7965
Fax: 1-877-4-TAX-FAX
Among its many responsibilities, the Ministry of Finance administers many provincial taxes, including corporations tax, Employer Health Tax, Retail Sales Tax, tobacco tax and mining tax.
Ministry of Transportation
www.mto.gov.on.ca
Toll-free: 1-800-268-4MTO
Tel: 416-235-4686
The Ministry of Transportation is responsible for, among other things, vehicle registration and licensing, including commercial registration and licences. For the office nearest you, check the website.
Agriculture/Food Industry Information
Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs
www.omafra.gov.on.ca
1 Stone Road West
Guelph, ON N1G 4Y2
Toll-free: 1-888-466-2372
Tel: 519-826-3100
E-mail: aboutomafra@omafra.gov.on.ca
The Ministry's website offers links to all kinds of sites relevant to the food industry, including food safety, commissions, associations, agencies, marketing boards and assorted newsletters. Everything from biotechnology to free trade and food statistics is covered here.
Tourism Industry Information
Ministry of Tourism
www.tourism.gov.on.ca
9th Floor, 900 Bay Street
Toronto, ON M7A 2R9
Tel: 416-326-9326
The Ministry's website contains a wealth of information on tourism trends and opportunities as well as links to sites relevant to the industry.
Business Export Information
Ontario Exports
www.ontarioexports.com
56 Wellesley Street West, 7th Floor
Toronto, ON M7A 2E4
Toll-free: 1-877-468-7233
Tel: 416-314-8200 Fax: 416-314-8222
E-mail: trade.officer@oei.gov.on.ca
This is the Ontario Government's export development agency. It helps Ontario business owners learn how to export and expand their international markets. It offers a guide, called Getting Ready to Export, and conducts seminars, organizes market-development trips, virtual trade missions and trade shows. (The website also lists contacts for particular jurisdictions of world trade.)
Export Development Canada (EDC)
www.edc.ca
151 O'Connor Street
Ottawa, ON K1A 1K3
Tel: 613-598-2500
Fax: 613-237-2690
EDC offers one-stop shopping for exporters of all sizes and at all stages by providing general information, skills development, export counselling, market entry support, export financing and in-market assistance.
Business Incubators
Canadian Association of Business Incubators (CABI)
www.cabi.ca
1071 King Street West, Suite 537
Toronto, ON M6K 3K2
Tel: 416-345-9937
Fax: 416-345-9044
E-mail: info@cabi.ca
CABI's main goal is to help small business incubators—and their clients—succeed. Incubators, which can be mixed-use or sector specific, provide a variety of services, including office space, hands-on management assistance, education, information, technical and vital business support services, networking resources and financial advice.
Business Financing
Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
www.bdc.ca
BDC Building
5 Place Ville Marie, Suite 400
Montreal, PQ H3B 5E7
Toll-free: 1-877-BDC-BANK (232-2269)
Fax: 1-877-329-9232
The BDC is a commercial bank owned by the government of Canada. BDC offers long-term financing, venture capital, subordinate financing and business consulting services to small business.
Community Futures Development Corporations
Sixty one Community Futures Development Corporations support community economic development by providing small business loans and business support services to assist Ontario’s rural and northern communities to strengthen and diversify their economies.
Canadian Bankers Association (CBA)
The main representative organization for banks in Canada, the CBA provides information, statistics and publications to help individual and small business consumers manage their financial affairs. The website includes a complete list of CBA members.
Canadian Finance and Leasing Association (CFLA)
www.cfla-acfl.ca
15 Toronto Street, Suite 301
Toronto ON M5C 2E3
Toll-free: 1-877-213-7373
Tel: 416-860-1133
Fax: 416-860-1140
CFLA members, which include banks, insurance companies, trust companies, investment dealers, manufacturers' finance companies and independent leasing companies, provide asset-based financing of equipment, vehicles and related assets for Canadian businesses. The website includes a complete list of CFLA members.
Canadian Venture Capital Association (CVCA)
www.cvca.ca
234 Eglinton Avenue East, Suite 200
Toronto, ON M4P 1K5
Tel: 416-487-0519
Fax: 416-487-5899
CVCA's 850-plus members are venture capital companies and private equity professionals with funds under management and available for investment. The organization encourages investment in early stage Canadian growth companies. The website includes a complete list of members.
National Angel Organization (NAO)
www.angelinvestor.ca
234 College Street, Suite 100,
Toronto, ON M5T 1R5
Tel: 416-971-4352
Fax: 416-978-6052
NAO's primary objective is to facilitate angel investment. The organization doesn't make angel investment itself, but many of the groups found in the Links section of the website do match entrepreneurs with angel funds. Entrepreneurs looking for funding are encouraged to review this list for groups with profiles most closely matching their needs.
Industry Canada
Industry Canada's website includes a Sources of Financing section, which aims to help entrepreneurs locate traditional or alternative sources of financing. It includes an extensive directory of Canadian financial providers, information on different types of financing and financial providers, and tips on how to secure financing.
General Business Associations
Associations Canada
www.mmltd.com
Toll-free: 1-800-387-2689 ext. 4397
Tel: 416-362-5211 ext. 4397
The Associations Canada directory contains 19,000 listings of Canadian associations and selected foreign associations active in Canada or of interest to Canadians—many of them business related. They are specialized by location, industry, language, ethnicity, gender or any combination of these. Joining an association gives you great networking opportunities. Additionally, associations often keep their members informed about issues of interest to their sector. The Associations Canada Directory can be found at your local Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC)
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
www.canadiancouncilbbb.ca
44 Byward Market Square, Suite 220
Ottawa, ON K1N 7A2
Tel: 613-789-5151
Fax: 613-789-7044
E-mail: cccbb@canadiancouncilbbb.ca
The BBB acts as the country's pre-eminent source of information relating to ethical business and advertising practices and is a major provider of marketplace dispute resolution services. There are 14 regional bureaus in Canada, most of which offer free reports. The website has information on how to file a complaint, the latest scams and also provides links to federal, provincial and territorial governments.
Canadian Association of Family Enterprise
www.cafemembers.org
Canadian Association of Family Enterprise—National Office
1060 Britannia Road East, Unit 20
Mississauga, ON L4W 4T1
Toll-free: 1-866-849-0099
Fax: 905-670-1358
This organization deals with family business issues through different chapters across the country. Its members receive support on challenges like passing on a business, training heirs, taxation and other family business matters.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce
www.chamber.ca
BCE Place
181 Bay Street (Galleria)
P.O. Box 818
Toronto, ON M5J 2T3
Tel: 416-868-6415
Fax: 416-868-0189
E-mail: info@chamber.ca
For 75 years, the Chamber has been the national non-profit group that attempts to bring together all types of Canadian business to act as one unified voice. Representing 170,000 businesses, the Chamber lobbies the federal government and steers national debate on business-related issues. Members receive up-to-date information on Chamber activities, legislation, and have access to online discussion groups and business conferences. Local chambers of commerce act independently, but cooperatively with the national organization.
Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC)
www.occ.on.ca
180 Dundas Street West, Suite 505
Toronto, ON M5G 1Z8
Tel: 416-482-5222
Fax: 416-482-5879
E-mail: info@occ.on.ca
The OCC is a non-partisan, non-profit organization founded in 1911, whose primary role is to provide a voice to businesses throughout the province. It also acts as a lobby group for business owners in Ontario. The organization has about 150 local member chambers, each of whose activities attempt to serve the best interests of its own jurisdiction. Services are restricted to members only.
Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB)
www.cfib.ca
4141 Yonge Street, Suite 401
Willowdale, ON M2P 2A6
Tel: 416-222-8022
CFIB is a national non-profit, non-partisan political action organization, which was founded in 1971 to promote and protect a system of free competitive enterprise, to strengthen entrepreneurship in Canada, and to give independent business a greater voice in laws and policies that affect them. Representing the interests of over 105,000 independent business owners in every sector and region in Canada, some 42,000 of CFIB's direct small- and medium-size enterprise (SME) members do business in Ontario. In addition to political lobbying, and its regular newsletters and tips on subjects such as taxation, banking, and regulations, CFIB offers its members a range of value-added benefits, including on-line training, one-on-one information and assistance, and various money-saving plans.
Canadian Franchise Association (CFA)
www.cfa.ca
2585 Skymark Avenue, Suite 300
Mississauga, ON L4W 4L5
Toll-free: 1-800-665-4232
Tel: 905-625-2896
Fax: 905-625-9076
E-mail: info@cfa.ca
Founded in 1967, the CFA is a national trade association of franchisors, all committed to achieving excellence in franchising. Its membership represents a diverse cross-section of franchisors in Canada, ranging from very large, established businesses to smaller, regional concepts. Members also include companies that supply franchisors with products or services.
Canadian Marketing Association (CMA)
www.the-cma.org
1 Concorde Gate, Suite 607
Don Mills, ON M3C 3N6
Tel: 416-391-2362
Fax: 416-441-4062
E-mail: info@the-cma.org
The CMA is the largest marketing association in Canada. It promotes growth and business development and provides ongoing education for its members, both corporate and individual, in an effort to maximize marketing strategies. It also responds to public policy issues, such as privacy concerns and marketing to children. Its corporate members include some of the largest companies in the country. Seminars and conferences are open to non-members.
Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
www.csa.ca
178 Rexdale Boulevard
Rexdale, ON M9R 1R3
Toll-free: 1-800-463-6727
Tel: 416-747-4044
Fax: 416-747-2510
This is a non-profit membership association serving industry, government, consumers and other interested parties in Canada and the global marketplace. A developer of standards and codes, CSA strives to enhance public safety, improve quality of life, preserve the environment and facilitate trade. To help people understand and apply standards, CSA also offers seminars, workshops and other training opportunities.
Direct Sellers Association of Canada
www.dsa.ca
180 Atwell Drive, Suite 250
Toronto, ON M9W 6A9
Tel: 416-679-8555
Fax: 416-679-8555
E-mail: information@dsa.ca
This national trade association represents firms that manufacture and sell goods and services through independent sales contractors. Sales are made in the home, workplace, via the phone or Internet (but not by direct mail), rather than through a fixed retail location. (New business owners are advised to consult their lawyers due to the legal complexities of direct selling.)
Industry Associations
Apparel Manufacturers Association of Ontario
www.ontarioapparel.com
504-124 O'Connor Street,
Ottawa, ON K1P 5M9
Toll-free: 1-800-661-1187
Tel: 613-231-3220
Fax: 613-231-2305
The Apparel Manufacturers Association of Ontario provides members with valuable information on issues of interest to the industry—changing trade rules, impact of technology and market conditions—as well as training programs and workshops. Members can also take advantage of savings on goods and services.
Canadian Advanced Technology Alliance (CATA)
www.cata.ca
388 Albert Street
Ottawa, ON K1R 5B2
Tel: 613-236-6550
Fax: 613-236-8189
E-mail: info@cata.ca
The principal association for the high tech industry, CATA provides its members with a wide range of services, including resource centres and e-mail alerts on important issues, networking opportunities, Request for Proposal (RFP) alerts, member discounts on insurance and information on business promotion, taxes, human resources, e-marketing and international business opportunities.
Canadian Association of Importers and Exporters Inc.
www.importers.ca
438 University Avenue, Suite 1618
Toronto, ON M5G 2K8
Tel: 416-595-5333
Fax: 416-595-8226
E-mail: info@caie.ca
The Association lobbies senior government officials, participates in hearings and guides trade and customs issues. Members are sent daily e-mails offering timely information on regulations affecting international trade. All members receive Tradeweek, a national bi-weekly publication for importers/exporters. Regular conferences and seminars (also open to non-members) provide the latest information from industry experts and key senior-level government officials. Members include importers, exporters, distributors and agents, who form about two-thirds of the total enrolment, with the balance representing service firms, such as freight and shipping companies, airlines, customs brokers, lawyers, accountants, banks and foreign trade promotion offices.
Canadian Association of Management Consultants
www.camc.com
BCE Place
Heritage Bldg. Floor 2R
Toronto, ON M5J 2T3
Toll-free:1-800-268-1148
Tel: 416-860-1515
Fax: 416-860-1535 or toll-free: 1-800-662-2972
E-mail: camc@camc.com
A trade association representing consultants, from sole proprietors to large firms, specializing in services such as business planning, organizational development, project management, feasibility studies, and general management and e-business management. Members have access to online courses, conferences and networking opportunities. (Non-members can attend most events and there are special membership rates for students studying to be management consultants.) Members consult to government, banking and financial services, health care, manufacturing, professional services, small businesses, family businesses and technology.
Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME)
www.cme-mec.ca
Ontario Division
5995 Avebury Road, Suite 900
Mississauga, ON L5R 3P9
Toll-free: 1-800-268-9684
Tel: 905-568-8300
Fax: 905-568-2876
CME represents the interests of Canadian manufacturers and exporters, lobbying the government and keeping its members informed about relevant issues through its magazine and newsletter. It also organizes networking opportunities and seminars (which are also open to non-members.) CME's members represent 75 per cent of the country's manufacturing output and 90 per cent of exports. While its membership list includes some of the largest players, 80 per cent are small- to medium-sized companies.
Canadian Restaurant & Foodservices Association (CRFA)
www.crfa.ca
316 Bloor Street West
Toronto, ON M5S 1W5
Toll-free 1-800-387-5649
Tel: 416-923-8416
Fax: 416-923-1450
E-mail: info@crfa.ca
Founded in 1944 by a handful of restaurateurs, CRFA now boasts 16,000 members, including independent operators and multi-unit chains. Services to members include: industry research and forecast, money saving services and group buying programs and up-to-date information on important industry issues like smoking legislation, minimum wages, payroll taxes and food safety.
Digital Media Professionals Association (DMPA)
www.dmpa.ca
Toll-free: 1-800-465-5190
Tel: 416-222-2449
E-mail: ck@dmpa.ca
Formed in early 2001, DMPA aims to help its members stay at the leading edge of the industry. Through quarterly newsletters and a membership-only area, it provides technology updates, product reviews, application field reports, end-user case studies, hands-on operational tips and creative technique tutorials, job market analyses and industrial best practices. Membership is free.
The Eaton Chair in Retailing
www.ecr.ryerson.ca
(Centre for the Study of Commercial Activity)
Ryerson University
350 Victoria Street
Toronto, ON M5B 2K3
Tel: 416-979-5378
Fax: 416-979-5378
This site offers information about retailing in Canada, providing statistics on retail trends, retail activity on the web, other sources of retail information, publicly traded retailers, corporate reports, links to other relevant national and international sites, and selected retail publications by title and topic area. It's an excellent research tool for retail professionals.
Fashion Design Council of Canada (FDCC)
www.torontofashionweek.ca
Hazelton Lanes
55 Avenue Road West, Suite 2350
Toronto, ON M5R 3L2
Tel: 416-922-3322
Fax: 416-922-4292
E-mail: info@fdcc.ca
The FDCC is a national organization dedicated to promoting Canadian fashion at home and abroad. It promotes relationships between designers, buyers and media and sponsors the high-profile bi-annual Toronto Fashion Week. FDCC also provides a variety of services for its members, including the Designers Resource Centre.
Federation of Ontario Bed & Breakfast Accommodation (FOBBA)
www.fobba.com
Box 437, 253 College Street
Toronto, ON M5T 1R5
Tel: 416-515-1293
E-mail: info@fobba.com
Formed in 1987, FOBBA represents the bed and breakfast industry. Members receive a listing and web page in the FOBBA directory, which has worldwide distribution, VISA merchant discounts, quarterly newsletters and offers the opportunity to take part in an annual trade show.
Ontario Accommodation Association (OAA)
www.ontarioaccommodation.com
347 Pido Road, Unit 2
RR 6
Peterborough, ON K9J 6X7
Toll-free: 1-800-461-1972
Tel: 705-745-4982
Fax: 705-745-4983
E-mail: info@ontarioaccommodation.com
Founded in 1949, OAA is the non-profit trade association representing Ontario's independent accommodation industry. Most of its 1,000 members are family-owned-and-operated small- to medium-sized businesses. Besides motels, members include hotels, resorts, country inns, bed and breakfasts, and outfitter lodges. The OAA provides information on industry trends and statistics, special discounts on goods and services and keeps members up to date with a newsletter.
Ontario Crafts Council
www.craft.on.ca
170 Bedford Road, Suite 300
Toronto, ON
M5R 2K9
Tel: 416-925-4222
Fax: 416-925-4223
E-mail: info@craft.on.ca
The Ontario Crafts Council, founded in 1976, is a not-for-profit arts service organization that promotes crafts, acts as an advocate for craftspeople, and provides educational public programming. Professional development workshops are open to members and non-members.
Ontario Furniture Manufacturers' Association (OFMA)
www.ofma.ca
6900 Airport Road
Box 85, Suite 200
Mississauga, ON L4V 1E8
Tel: 905-677-6561
Fax: 905-677-5212
E-mail: info@ofma.ca
Founded in 1890, the OFMA represents manufacturers of furniture, furnishings, fixtures, accessories and suppliers to the industry and acts as an advocate for the industry. OFMA provides market reports and industry studies and information on issues important to the industry, including apprenticeship and training programs.
Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council
www.omvic.on.ca
789 Don Mills Road, Suite 800
Toronto, ON M3C 1T5
Toll-free: 1-800-943-6002
Tel: 416-226-4500
Fax: 416-226-3208
E-mail: omvic@omvic.on.ca
OMVIC is a self-managed body representing about 30,000 registered auto dealers and salespersons in Ontario. The organization's mandate is to ensure a fair, safe and informed marketplace in Ontario by protecting the rights of consumers, enhancing industry professionalism and ensuring fair, honest and open competition for registered motor vehicle dealers.
Ontario Restaurant, Hotel and Motel Association
www.orhma.com
2600 Skymark Avenue, Suite 8-201
Mississauga, ON L4W 5B2
Toll-free: 1-800-668-8906
Tel: 905-361-0268
Fax: 905-361-0288 or toll-free: 1-888-359-5588
With more than 4,000 members, representing more than 11,000 hospitality establishments across the province, the Ontario Restaurant, Hotel and Motel Association promotes the industry's interests at both the provincial and municipal levels of government. Membership includes the bi-weekly newsletter and the monthly magazine. Tradeshows and workshops are offered to members and non-members. The website offers links to relevant sites covering tourism, labour issues, food and alcohol, and a list of Ontario daily newspapers.
Ontario Tourism and Marketing Partnership Corporation (OTMPC)
www.tourismpartners.com
10th Floor, Hearst Block
900 Bay Street
Toronto, ON M7A 2E1
Tel: 1-800-263-7836
Fax: 416-314-7574
A unique private-public partnership, OTMPC aims to promote Ontario as a prime tourist attraction. OTMPC also provides up-to-date information on tourism trends, business opportunities and events. Members benefit from a variety of initiatives, including research-based marketing and advertising, product development and event marketing.
Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO)
www.reco.on.ca
3250 Bloor Street West, Suite 600
Toronto, ON M8X 2X9
Toll-free: 1-800-245-6910
Tel: 416-207-4800
Fax: 416-207-4820
E-mail: information@reco.on.ca
RECO is responsible for administering the regulations of the real estate industry as defined by the Government of Ontario. It exists to offer consumer protection by maintaining a fair, safe and informed marketplace. Its activities cover everything from handling consumer and member complaints to providing mandatory re-training requirements.
Retail Council of Canada (RCC)
www.retailcouncil.org
1255 Bay Street, Suite 800
Toronto, ON M5R 2A9
Toll-free: 1-888-373-8245
Tel: 416-922-6678
Fax: 416-922-8011 or toll-free: 1-877-790-4271
Founded in 1963, RCC is a not-for-profit association whose more than 9,000 members represent all retail formats, including national and regional department stores, mass merchants, specialty chains, independent stores, as well as merchants. The Council acts as an advocate for the retail industry, while providing members with up-to-date industry research (including e-business information), education, conferences and a bi-monthly magazine.
Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO)
www.tico.on.ca
2700 Matheson Boulevard East,
Suite 402, West Tower
Mississauga, ON L4W 4V9
Toll-free: 1-888-451-8426
Tel: 905-624-6241
Fax: 905-624-8631
E-mail: tico@tico.on.ca
TICO is a self-managed, not-for-profit corporation formed in 1997 to administer the Ontario Travel Industry Act, which governs roughly 3,000 registered retail and wholesale travel companies in Ontario. It also administers the industry-financed travel compensation fund. Its mission is to promote a fair and informed marketplace where consumers can be confident in their travel purchases. It strives to accomplish this through its code of ethics, consumer education and by mediating disputes between consumers and travel providers.
Women entrepreneurs
Canadian Association of Women Executives & Entrepreneurs (CAWEE)
www.cawee.net
3 Church Street, Suite 604
Toronto, ON M5E 1M2
Tel: 416-756-0000
Fax: 416-862-0315
E-mail: info@cawee.net
CAWEE is a networking and social alliance of women entrepreneurs, successful small business owners and business leaders from some of Canada's most influential organizations. The association provides a forum for business women to exchange ideas, build relationships, and participate in workshops, conferences and special events (also open to non-members) to aid in the development and advancement of their business and professional lives.
Canadian Federation of Business and Professional Women's Clubs (Ontario)
BPW is a non-sectarian, non-profit, non-partisan organization that promotes the interests of working women via 27 local clubs covering six districts. It operates within the Canadian Federation of Business and Professional Women's Clubs (BPW Canada) towards the improvement of the status of women in all segments of society, especially in business, the professions and industry. Most clubs hold monthly dinner meetings, which provide opportunities to stay informed on women's issues, and network with other working women. BPW Ontario is a member of the National Action Committee on the Status of Women. Events are open to non-members.
Women Entrepreneurs of Canada (WEC)
www.wec.ca
1630 Ewald Road
Mississauga, ON L5G 4C3
Tel: 416-388-5586
Fax: 905-274-5366
E-mail: wec@wec.ca
WEC is a federally incorporated non-profit organization founded in 1992 to serve the interests of established women entrepreneurs. It exists to promote and foster women's success in business. WEC organizes monthly dinner meetings in Toronto, as well as conferences and forums. (Virtual memberships are available at reduced rates for those living outside the Greater Toronto Area.)
Young entrepreneurs
Young Entrepreneurs Association (YEA)
www.yea.ca
National Office
843 Yates Street
Victoria, BC V8W 1M1
Toll-free: 1-888-639-3222
Toll-free fax: 1-888-639-7969
E-mail: toronto@yea.ca
A volunteer-driven, non-profit organization, YEA aims to support young people in business. Primarily targeted at people 35 and under who own businesses, YEA provides its members with the opportunity to learn from one another's experiences and take advantage of the support of their peers as they grow their businesses. YEA programs and events include peer mentorship, an online forum, corporate tours, seminars, conferences, and social events.
Canadian Youth Business Foundation (CYBF)
www.cybf.ca
(National office)
123 Edward Street, Suite 1404
Toronto, ON M5G 1E2
Tel: 416-408-2923
Fax: 416-408-3234
E-mail: info@cybf.ca
CYBF helps young entrepreneurs 18 to 34 pursue their aspirations of building successful enterprises by providing business assistance not otherwise accessible to them. Founded in 1996 by the CIBC, the Royal Bank, and the Canadian Youth Foundation, CYBF was initially created in response to high youth unemployment and underemployment. Now a leading organization encouraging youth entrepreneurship, it also provides business start-up loans of up to $15,000 to eligible applicants.
Junior Achievement of Canada
www.jacan.org
2275 Lakeshore Boulevard West, Suite 306
Toronto, ON M8V 3Y3
Toll-free: 1-800-265-0699
Tel: 416-622-4602
Fax: 416-622-6861
E-mail: programs@jacan.org
Junior Achievement is an international non-profit organization dedicated to educating and inspiring young people, 19 years and under, about business and economics. Programs, events and conferences help young people discover leadership and entrepreneurial and workforce readiness skills so they can achieve their highest potential. Junior Achievement has chapters all across Canada.
Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities
www.edu.gov.on.ca
900 Bay Street
Mowat Block
Public Inquiries Unit
14th Floor
Toronto, ON M7A 1L2
Toll-free: 1-800-387-5514
Tel: 416-325-2929
Fax: 416-325-6348
E-mail: info@edu.gov.on.ca
The Ministry offers a number of entrepreneurial initiatives especially directed at youth, and the website includes a large number of links to sites with information, advice and inspirational profiles for young entrepreneurs. Go to the home page, type in "self-employment" or "entrepreneur" on the quick search bar and you're there.
Disabled entrepreneurs
Lutherwood-CODA
www.lutherwoodcoda.com
(Enterprise and Business Group)
165 King Street East, 2nd Floor
Kitchener, ON N2G 2K8
Tel: 519-742-1782
Fax: 519-742-7895
E-mail: ebg@lutherwoodcoda.com
Lutherwood-CODA runs a Self Employment Program for Persons with Disabilities in partnership with KW Access-Ability, the Canadian Hearing Society and the Canadian National Institute for the Blind. It's designed to help people with disabilities launch and grow small businesses. Eligible applicants can enroll in a four-week pre-entrepreneurial training session, followed by eight weeks of in-class training. The program covers business plan development, market research, financial training, business organization, sales and marketing, followed by 44 weeks of ongoing support.
Paths to Equal Opportunity
www.equalopportunity.on.ca
Tel: 416-325-4957
Toll-free: 1-888-325-4957
Bell relay service at voice number:
416-325-6253 (collect calls accepted)
E-mail: eoinfo@mczcvr.gov.on.ca
Write to:
Public Education and Partnerships Unit
Accessibility Directorate of Ontario
Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration
3rd Floor, 400 University Avenue
Toronto, ON M7A 2R9
Paths to Equal Opportunity is an expansive information resource—both online and offline—that supports the principles of inclusiveness for all people, regardless of ability. It covers a broad range of topics relevant to people with disabilities. The site also includes information on self-employment. (Check out the A to Z index, then look under the heading Employment and Management.)
Aboriginal Business Canada
Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) Aboriginal Entrepreneur
www.bdc.ca
155 Carlton Street, Suite 200
Winnipeg, MB R3C 3H8
Tel: 204- 983-3594
Fax: 204-983-8522
E-mail: wendy.macnair@bdc.ca
The BDC's Aboriginal Banking Unit offers advice and financing tailored to Aboriginal entrepreneurs. Information on financing options, business start-up and ongoing support is provided. The site also contains useful links to:
Aboriginal Business Canada
The Aboriginal Business Service Network
Aboriginal Canada Portal
Aboriginal Business Development
This site acts as an electronic gateway to partnerships, practices, programs and services designed to strengthen and build Aboriginal businesses in Ontario. It offers links to both government and non-government programs and services relevant to the Aboriginal entrepreneur.
French entrepreneurs
Chambre économique de l'Ontario
www.ceo-on.com
1173, chemin Cyrville, bureau 101
Ottawa ON K1J 7S6
Tel: 613-740-9900
The Chambre économique de l'Ontario is an association of francophone business people, economic associations and government. The non-partisan, non-profit organization was founded in 1990 to provide a voice to French businesses throughout the province. It also acts as a lobby group for French business owners in Ontario.
Not-for-profit entrepreneurs
Charity Village
www.charityvillage.com
160 Main Street South
P.O. Box 92536,
Brampton, ON L6W 4R1
Tel: 905-453-7321
Charity Village bills itself as Canada's "supersite for the non-profit sector" and includes more than 3,000 pages of news, information and resources, including guides on fundraising, management and administration, volunteers, communication and technology. There are also links to publications, government services and information, and key funding sources.
Trillium Foundation
www.trilliumfoundation.org
45 Charles Street East, 5th Floor
Toronto ON M4Y 1S2
Toll-free: 1-800-263-2887
Tel: 416-963-4927
Fax: 416-963-8781
E-mail: trillium@trilliumfoundation.org
The Ontario Trillium Foundation is the province's leading charitable grant-making foundation, with an annual budget of $100 million. Grants are awarded to fund capital, operating and/or specific project costs in support of arts and culture, environment, human and social services and sports and recreation. The Foundation makes grants that have province-wide impact, as well as grants in local communities across Ontario.
