Just like across Canada, Ontario businesses can be structured as:
 

• Sole Proprietorship: Simple and affordable, full control, personal liability.
   

• Partnership: Share resources and responsibilities with a partner, but liability is shared.
   

• Corporation: Limited liability, easier to raise funds, slightly more complex to set up.
   

Need more guidance? Check out How to Launch a Business in Canada for the bigger picture.

• Choose a Name: Make sure it’s unique and memorable.
   

• NUANS Search: Check name availability across Canada.
   

• Domain & Social Handles: Secure a matching website and social profiles.
   

Learn more in our Launch a Business Checklist to make sure you cover all the naming and registration steps.

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• Sole Proprietorships & Partnerships: Register with your provincial government.
   

• Corporations: Decide between federal or provincial incorporation.
   

• Costs & Timeline: Registration is quick and affordable for sole proprietorships; incorporation may take a few days to weeks.
   

For more details on incorporation, see Incorporation Options When You Launch a Business.

Bank Account: Keep personal and business finances separate. Compare accounts at major banks.
 

Funding Options:
 

• Grants and government programs
   

• Startup loans
   

• Investors, crowdfunding, or venture capital
   

Need guidance on funding? Check out Funding Your Business When You Launch.

• Operations: Set up your processes, suppliers, and workspace.
   

• Marketing Basics: Build a website, create social media accounts, and identify your target audience.
   

• Customer Acquisition: Use digital ads, local networking, and word-of-mouth to attract your first clients.

Get more marketing tips in Marketing Tips for Launching a Business and explore helpful tools in Technology Tools to Launch a Business Efficiently.