Business Coaching
We'll Provide Targeted Business Advice
Prepare Your Business Plan
Developing a sound business plan is a vital part of creating any business. Operating your business without a plan is like planning a road trip without a map.
Your business plan outlines your proposed business and how you will achieve your goals.
Your business plan should include:
- The purpose of your business
- The start-up cost
- How you will attract your customer base
- Your total financial needs
- Expected revenues
North Simcoe CFDC offers Business Start-up Workshops twice a month that will help refine your plan and perfect your path to success. Contact us to join our next session.
Get Business Ready
To get your business ready to operate, you will need to complete the following:
- Check availability of your proposed business name
- Register your business name
- Apply for HST number (former GST number)
- Apply for a Payroll Account (if you are planning to have employees)
- Apply for a Workers Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) Account (this is mandatory if you are going to have employees)
- Apply for an Import/Export Account (if you are planning to trade with other countries)
Visit Service Ontario to register your business and learn more about operating a business in Ontario. Our staff are here to help.
Create Your Marketing Plan
Marketing for a small business means attracting and keeping your customers. Ideally, market research is completed before creating your marketing plan, including a clear picture of your target market and understanding what they need. You should also be aware of competitors and their products, prices, and how they reach their customers. Your Marketing Plan is a valuable tool that shares unique information about your products and your services and why your customers should choose your company.
Marketing Tips for Starting Your Business:
- Invest in clear and concise business cards that are easy-to-read and eye-catching
- Make use of free or low-cost marketing opportunities (i.e., social media, local business directories, event sponsorship for local charitable or sports organizations)
- Create a strong elevator pitch, a brief 45-second introduction that describes your specific business, products or services in a memorable way
- Ask for referrals and testimonials from your existing customers
- Consider offering incentive programs to encourage repeat business.
Marketing is an ongoing business activity and will need to evolve along with your business and the local market.