How do I start a business in Ontario as a beginner?

To start a business in Ontario, begin by choosing a business idea, selecting a structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation), registering your business, and setting up a CRA business number.

Should I register my business as a sole proprietorship or corporation in Canada?

Sole proprietorships are simpler and cheaper to start, while corporations offer liability protection and potential tax benefits. The choice depends on your business goals and growth plans.

How do I choose a business name for registration in Canada?

Pick a unique, memorable name and check for availability using NUANS for federal incorporation or Ontario business name search for provincial registration.

Do I need a NUANS name search before incorporating in Canada?

Yes. Federal incorporations require a NUANS name search to ensure the name is unique across Canada. Some Ontario incorporations may also require it.

What government accounts do I need to start a business in Canada?

You may need a CRA business number, HST/GST account, payroll account, and import-export accounts depending on your business type and activities.

Can Launch a Business help me with the entire business registration process?

Yes. Launch a Business guides you step-by-step through name registration, incorporation, government filings, and CRA account setup.

How much does it cost to start a business in Ontario?

Costs vary by structure and registration type. Sole proprietorships and partnerships have minimal fees, while incorporation fees are higher and may include NUANS name search costs.

How long does it take to register a business in Ontario?

Business registration can be completed online in a few hours to a few days, depending on the registry and type of registration.

Do I need a separate bank account for my new business?

Yes. A separate bank account helps track income and expenses, simplifies accounting, and ensures compliance with CRA and legal requirements.

Do I need a business plan to start a business in Canada?

While not legally required, a business plan helps outline your goals, budget, marketing strategy, and operations, increasing your chance of success.

Can I start a business part-time while keeping my job?

Yes. Many entrepreneurs start part-time to test their business idea while maintaining financial stability before fully committing.

What legal steps should I take before launching my business?

Key steps include choosing a business structure, registering your business, obtaining necessary licenses and permits, and ensuring compliance with local, provincial, and federal regulations.

How do I manage taxes as a new business owner in Canada?

Track all business income and expenses, register for CRA accounts, collect HST if required, and file annual tax returns to stay compliant.

Can Launch a Business provide ongoing support after my business is registered?

Yes. Launch a Business offers support for annual filings, corporate changes, CRA account management, and general guidance to keep your business compliant and growing.

Start A Business in Canada

Got a business idea but no clue where to start? Starting a business doesn't have to be overwhelming. Whether you're registering a sole proprietorship, incorporating a company, launching a not-for-profit, or growing an existing business, we're here to help every step of the way, so you can go from "someday" to "launched" without the stress.

Explore Business Services!

(without wanting to cry)

Welcome to Launch a Business!

We help Canadians like you turn “I should start a business” into “OMG, I own a business” without feeling overwhelmed, confused, or experiencing a 2 a.m. Google spiral.

We’re like your organized, slightly nerdy friends who actually read the government forms — so you don’t have to.

business reg vs inc

Ontario Business Registration

Our streamlined process allows you to register your Ontario business efficiently, minimizing paperwork and delays. Take the first step towards your entrepreneurial journey today.

Let's Get You Registered!

Ontario Incorporation

Our smooth, straightforward process helps you get it done with clarity and confidence. Build credibility, protect your business name, and set the stage for growth. Let’s get started.

Ready, Set, Incorporate!

Federal Incorporation

Our straightforward process removes the guesswork, giving you clarity and confidence every step of the way.

Let’s get started.

Let's Federally Incorporate!

Ontario NFP/Charitable

Our simple, step-by-step process makes it easy to start your Ontario not-for-profit with clarity and confidence. Establish your organization, protect your name, and build trust with your community from day one.

Whether you’re creating a community group or working toward charitable status, we’ll help you set the right foundation—so you can focus on making an impact.

Start Your Ontario Not-for-Profit

BC Business Registration

Ready to start a business in British Columbia? Our streamlined process helps you register your business quickly and confidently through the BC Business Registry.

From business name registration to completing your filing, we make the process simple while helping you avoid common mistakes and unnecessary delays.

Start Your BC Business!

BC Incorporation

Ready to incorporate a company in British Columbia? Our streamlined process helps you complete your BC incorporation with confidence and ease.

From preparing your incorporation details to filing your application, we help simplify the process so you can focus on building your business. Let’s get started.

Coming Soon - Custom Quote!

Choose the Right Business Structure

One of the first decisions you'll make when starting a business is choosing the right legal structure. The option you select can affect your taxes, liability, ownership, compliance requirements, and future growth opportunities.

Whether you're launching a side hustle, starting a family business, building a high-growth company, or creating a community organization, understanding the differences between business structures can help you make an informed decision.

The comparison below highlights some of the most common business structures available in Canada.

Business Structure Type	Description
Sole Proprietorship	Ideal for freelancers, consultants, and small business owners looking for a simple and affordable way to start a business.
Partnership (General Partnership)	A business structure designed for two or more individuals operating a small business together.
Ontario Incorporation	A popular option for businesses operating primarily within Ontario.
Federal (Canada) Incorporation	Provides Canada-wide name protection and flexibility for businesses planning to grow nationally.
Not-for-Profit Organization	Designed for community groups, associations, charities, and mission-driven organizations.

Not sure which business structure is right for you?

Every business is unique, and the best option depends on your goals, industry, ownership structure, growth plans, and risk tolerance. Explore the services below to learn more about each business structure, compare your options, and find the right fit for your business.

Start Your Business Today!

How to Start a Business in Canada

Starting a business typically involves several important steps. While requirements may vary depending on your location and business type, most entrepreneurs follow a similar path.

Step 1: Choose a Business Idea

Step 2: Research Your Market

Step 3: Choose a Business Structure

Step 4: Register or Incorporate Your Business

Step 5: Obtain Required Tax Accounts

Step 6: Open a Business Bank Account

Step 7: Launch and Grow Your Business

Starting a Business Checklist

Starting a business involves more than just an idea — there are several important steps to make sure your business is set up properly and ready to operate.

Use this checklist as a simple guide to help you move from idea to launch.

Business Planning

✔ Define your business idea, products, or services
✔ Identify your target market
✔ Research competitors and pricing
✔ Choose a business name

Choose Your Business Structure

✔ Sole proprietorship
✔ Partnership
✔ Corporation (Ontario or Federal)
✔ Not-for-profit organization (if applicable)

Register or Incorporate Your Business

✔ Register a business name (if applicable)
✔ Incorporate Federally or Provincially (as required)
✔ Complete any required NUANS name search (if applicable)

Set Up Tax Accounts

✔ Obtain a Business Number (BN) from the CRA
✔ Register for GST/HST (if required)
✔ Set up payroll accounts (if hiring employees)
✔ Register import/export accounts (if applicable)

Open & Organize Finances

✔ Open a business bank account
✔ Set up bookkeeping or accounting system
✔ Separate personal and business finances

Licences, Permits & Insurance

✔ Apply for required business licences or permits
✔ Check municipal or industry-specific requirements
✔ Obtain business insurance if needed

Launch Your Business

✔ Build your website or online presence
✔ Set up marketing and branding
✔ Prepare your first customers or clients
✔ Launch and begin operations

Need Help Getting Started?

Every business is different, and the steps you need may vary depending on your structure, industry, and goals.

At Launch a Business, we help entrepreneurs across Canada register, incorporate, and set up their businesses properly from day one.

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Why Choose Launch a Business?

There are lots of ways to start a business in Canada — but most of them involve endless clicking, confusing language, a growing headache or wading through government websites and trying not to scream. We're not about that.

Here's how we do things differently!

Clear, Friendly Guidance

No jargon, no judgment.

Built for Entrepreneurs

As entrepreneurs ourselves, we're a small, passionate team that genuinely cares about helping you succeed.

Quick Turnaround Times

We don't leave you hanging. We understand you got a business to start!

Transparent Pricing

No mystery charges or fine print.

Real Human Support

Yes, we answer emails and yes we probably have a coffee in hand.

Peace of Mind

No second-guessing if you missed a step or filed the wrong form (we've got your back)

What We Do
(aka: How We Save Your Sanity)

You've got the idea. Now what? We make starting your business simple, clear and dare we say... kinda fun?

Here's what we can help you with:

Business Registration in Ontario

Your business starts here - with a name that's actually available (because yeah, Poutine Empire or Maple Syrup Mafia is probably already claimed) and a registration that's done right provincially. We take care of the details so you can skip the paperwork headache and get straight to building your empire (poutine or otherwise).

Incorporation Services

Incorporations explained in a way that actually makes sense. We handle your incorporation from start to finish - that means we check if your business name is available, complete your NUANS name search and file your articles of incorporation.

What Comes After "I'm Registered?'

We'll help you with the "oh right, there's more to do" part—like setting things up and checking off the next steps—because registering your business is just the beginning!

Launch That Business!

Who's This For?

Anyone in Canada who's tired of thinking "I want to start a business... someday." Someday is now. Let's go!!

This is for:

First-time founders who don't want to Google everything
Side hustlers who are making money
People with zero clue with lots of enthusiasm and way too much energy to let it go to wastealso making it up as they go
Freelancers who are tired of explaining that "yes, I do actually run a real business."
Coaches, consultants & service pros who are ready to go from DM deals to CEO vibes
Retail or e-comm hopefuls selling anything from candles to cat sweaters
The friend everyone says "you should totally start a business" to
Dreamers with a Plan (or Just a Dream) with a detailed business plan on a napkin? No problem - We're here to help.
Anyone who's just done working for someone else and ready to build their own thing

Whether you're launching a nail salon, selling art, apps, alpaca socks, or accounting services - we've helped Canadians across various industries launch their businesses successfully.

Launch That Business!

Already Have a Business?

Looking to make changes to an existing corporation, file annual returns, update directors, amend your corporation, or dissolve a business?

Explore our business management services.

Manage Your Business

Business Resources & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need to Know to Start Your Business in Ontario!

Brought to you by Launch a Business — your sidekick for getting started fast, smart, and stress-free.

Ontario Business Registrations

Ontario Incorporation

Federal Incorporation

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If you’re running any kind of business in Ontario—online, in-person, full-time, or even as a side hustle—you may need to register with the Ontario government. Launch a Business Inc. does just that! We assist you in filing everything you need to start your business. This applies if: You’re operating under a name that’s not just your full legal name (e.g., “Jordan Smith Photography” instead of “Jordan Smith”) You want to open a business bank account You need to charge HST You plan to hire employees You want to protect your brand or look more professional Registering gives you legal recognition and unlocks things like financing, licenses, and business tax write-offs.
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Your business name is the foundation of your brand—it’s what people remember and search for. Tips for choosing a name that sticks: Keep it simple and easy to spell Choose something unique to avoid confusion Make sure it reflects what you actually do Check that the matching domain and social handles are available Avoid names that are too long or hard to pronounce Want to check if your name is taken? See our “Do I Need a Business Name Search?” section below!
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Ontario has some strict rules around business names. You cannot use: A name that is misleading (e.g., calling yourself “Ontario Roofing Corp” when you're not incorporated) Government or institutional terms, like “bank,” “college,” “university,” “institute,” “ministry,” or “RCMP” Obscene or offensive language Someone else’s personal name (unless it’s yours) Symbols that begin the name (e.g., @, #, $) Names that include “Inc.,” “Ltd.,” or “Corp.” if you're not incorporating Names using non-Roman alphabets without an English version on signage Bottom line: Keep it professional, accurate, and unique.
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Technically? Not always. Should you? Absolutely. Ontario does not automatically check if your business name is already in use when you register. That means you could end up with the same (or very similar) name as another company—and that can lead to legal trouble, branding headaches, or lost customers. A business name search isn't always mandatory, but they're still important! Here are your options: Basic Ontario Name Search Checks for exact matches in the Ontario Business Registry. Fast, but limited. NUANS Name Pre-Search A more detailed report that checks for similar names and trademarks across Ontario and beyond. This is your best bet if you want to protect your brand long-term.
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To register a sole proprietorship or partnership, you’ll need: Your chosen business name(s) A business address (no P.O. boxes) Description of what you do (e.g., “graphic design services”) Business type: Sole Proprietor or General Partnership Full legal name(s) and address(es) of the owner(s) Type of registration: New, Renewal, Amendment, or Cancellation Optional: Business name search or NUANS report After registration, you’ll get a Business Identification Number (BIN)—this is your business’s unique Ontario ID.
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Yes! If you’ve already registered but need to update some details, here’s what you can do: Amendments: Update your address Change your business activity Add/remove partners (for partnerships) Note: You cannot change the business name through an amendment—you’ll need to cancel and re-register for that. Cancellations: If you're closing your business or switching to a new name, you’ll need to cancel your existing registration. Lost your BIN? No worries—we can help recover it for you.
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For most new small businesses in Ontario, there are 3 options: Sole Proprietorship One owner Easy and affordable Taxes filed through your personal return You’re personally responsible for debts General Partnership Two or more people share ownership Partners are jointly liable Income is split and taxed through personal returns Corporation (Separate process) Separate legal entity More legal protection and tax planning options More paperwork and cost Small business or corporation? What's the difference? Want to incorporate? We can help with that too—just ask!
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One of the biggest perks of running a business? Write-offs. Here’s a list of common business expenses you may be able to deduct: Rent and utilities (including home office use) Website hosting, domain, and design Marketing and advertising Office supplies and equipment Professional fees (accountants, lawyers) Software subscriptions (QuickBooks, Canva, Adobe, etc.) Business insurance Travel, meals, and vehicle costs (if used for business) Cell phone and internet (business portion only) Banking and transaction fees Pro Tip: Keep good records—receipts, invoices, and a spreadsheet (or use accounting software).
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No worries—we’re here to help. Whether you're just starting out or you've got a million questions, Launch a Business makes it simple to register, renew, or restructure your Ontario business with confidence. Book a free consult, give us a call, or shoot us an email—we’ll walk you through it, no pressure. Our team is here to help you get it right the first time so you can focus on growing your dream, not decoding red tape.
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A small business registration will stay active for 5 years after it’s registered so if you are no longer using it, you want to make sure it’s cancelled and showing as ‘inactive’. If you have any accounts with the Canada Revenue Agency, you will want to make sure those are also closed. This can include an HST number, Payroll account, etc. These are not automatically closed if you cancel or dissolve your business, and the CRA will continue expecting filings from you if these accounts stay open.
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You can search for a business anywhere across Canada using the business name or registration number. A common search is an entity profile report, which can be pulled for incorporated companies or small businesses. For numbered corporations, you can search using the corporate number. The following details can be found in a business search: * Legal name * Business address * Directors or owners, including addresses * Business status (active/cancelled/dissolved/expired) * Registration or incorporation date * Active or inactive tradenames * Filings and submission dates Get your Corporate Search done now!
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Got questions? We’ve got answers.

Book a quick, no-pressure call to chat about your business plans and how we can help. It’s free, it’s easy, and it could be the start of something great.

Start A Business in Canada

Welcome to Launch a Business!

Choose the Right Business Structure

How to Start a Business in Canada

Starting a Business Checklist

Business Planning

​

Register or Incorporate Your Business

Set Up Tax Accounts

Open & Organize Finances

Licences, Permits & Insurance

​

Launch Your Business

Need Help Getting Started?

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Why Choose Launch a Business?

What We Do (aka: How We Save Your Sanity)

Who's This For?

Already Have a Business?

Business Resources & Guides

Charity Status in Canada (2026 Guide): How to Register a Charity with CRA

How to Change a Corporate Name in Canada | Step-by-Step Guide

DIY Incorporation in Ontario (2026): The Complete Step-by-Step Guide to Incorporating Your Business Yourself

How to Remove a Director from a Corporation in Ontario (2026 Guide)

Grants for Not for Profit Organisations in Canada (2026 Guide): Where to Find Funding & How to Apply

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Do I Need to Register My Business in Ontario?

What’s the Best Way to Choose an Ontario Business Name?

What Kinds of Business Names Are NOT Allowed in Ontario?

Do I Really Need to Do a Business Name Search?

What Do I Need to Register My Business in Ontario?

How Long Does My Ontario Business Registration Last?

Can I Make Changes to My Business Info Later?

Do I Have to Register My Business If It’s Online Only?

What is a Business Identification Number (BIN)?

What Type of Business Should I Register?

Do I Need a Business Bank Account?

What Business Expenses Can I Deduct?

How Long Does It Take to Register?

Can I Register More Than One Business?

Still Not Sure What You Need?

How Can I Cancel my Business Registration or Master Business License?

Is It Important to Dissolve or Cancel the Business?

How Do I Search for an Existing Business?

What Is The First Step To Launch A Business In Canada?

How Do I Register my Business Name When I Launch A Business?

Can I Launch A Business Online Without Visiting A Government Office?

How Long Does It Take To Launch A Business?

Can I Get Support After I Launch A Business?

What Documents Do I Need To Launch A Business?

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What We Do
(aka: How We Save Your Sanity)