Starting a small business can be a rewarding, yet challenging, endeavor. We're here to support your journey and help you get your business up and growing. If you're in the seed stage of starting a small business, the following resources may be helpful for you.

Start Writing a Business Plan.
Writing out a business plan will help you zero in on ideas and aspects of the business that you may not have otherwise considered. Even if you're not seeking financing for your startup, a business plan is a helpful tool.

• Download a free Business Plan Checklist from Small Business BC
• Download a free Business Plan Template from Small Business BC
• Use Futurepreneur's interactive Business Plan Writer online tool
• Unsure where to start? Find out How to Write a Business Plan

Research The Market.

• ​Comox Valley Economic Development Society
• Explore the Village of Cumberland
• Doing business in Cumberland
• Not sure where to start? Check out this practical guide on how to do market research from BDC.
• Download a free Market Research Checklist from Small Business BC
• Check out the Resources section for market information from Vancouver Island Real Estate Board
• Learn about the community through the Comox Valley Regional District
• Regional research reports from Destination BC

Decide On Your Business Structure.

• Download the How to Choose the Right Business Structure info sheet from Small Business BC
• Definitions of the different business structures
• Understanding the different business structures 

Seek Financing.

• In the tech industry? Try Innovate BC
• Business grants and financing information from the Government of Canada

​Choose a Name for Your Business.

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​Register Your Business.

• https://onestop.gov.bc.ca/

Secure Your Online Presence.

• Launching a Website and Getting Your Business Online with Small Business BC

Register for PST and GST.

• Register for Provincial Sales Tax (PST) at gov.bc.ca/pst
• Register for goods and services tax (GST) here.

Employees?

• Other provincial, federal or local government registrations (www.bcbusinessregistry.ca)
• If you plan to hire employees you need to register with WorkSafeBC
• Need help finding the right people? The CEAS can help.

Investigate Additional Regulations and Requirements.

• labour.gov.bc.ca/esb

Identify Permit and Licence Requirements.  

• at bizpal.ca
• Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch
• Business Licenses: Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland

Get Support From a Mentor. 

• http://www.mentorshipbc.ca/Pages/default.aspx

Further Resources:

• www.antco.bc.ca
• ​www.futurpreneur.ca
• www.womensenterprise.ca/
• www.smallbusinessbc.ca
• www.servicebc.gov.bc.ca
• www.workbc.ca

Need more advice after starting your business? Check out our membership page here.