Start or Grow a Business

Visit Service Ontario for guidance on registering and renewing your business name, or learn about the business transaction you can complete by setting up a My Ontario Account.

Take advantage of the 10-Step Guide for Entrepreneurs Starting a Business in Ontario to help entrepreneurs successfully launch their business.

The Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre (CBEC) provides practical assistance (one-on-one) at no charge, to encourage entrepreneurship and support business growth. They also offer seminars, workshops and networking opportunities designed with the entrepreneur in mind.

If you’re new to the business world, you’ll want to apply to the free Starter Company Plus Program offered by the CBEC. You’ll receive valuable hands-on training, mentoring and may qualify for a start-up grant.

Get free assistance from the CBEC’s Digital Service Advisor to adopt digital tools and technologies for your business or to create your digital marketing campaign. Operating from the CBEC office, you can also get an honest assessment of your existing website or social media presence.”

The Cornwall and Area Chamber of Commerce leverages leadership, creativity, and collaboration to give local business owners the right tools, connections, and opportunities they need to grow. Membership advantages include a group benefits plan, discounts, member advocacy and support.

Business Sisters supports rural women entrepreneurs in Eastern Ontario, They provide business advisory services, host networking events and connect members to a sisterhood of businesswomen who want to help you thrive.

The Glengarry Inter-Agency Group (GIAG) can help you with recruitment and employee training needs to support your business goals. They will provide you with information on wage subsidies or paid employee training programs to develop your workforce, including Apprenticeship programs. They will post your openings on their job board and much more.

The Eastern Ontario Training Board (EOTB) supports workforce development and provides access to local labour market data for all industries giving you valuable insight. Their annual EmployerOne Survey helps identify skills gaps, employment opportunities and training needs in Eastern Ontario.

Job Zone can help you with employee recruitment or post your job openings are their job board. They can tell you about available employee training programs and share information about any wage-subsidy programs being offered. Job Zone staff will also help you manage workforce changes.

The Futurpreneur program provides financing, mentorship, and resources to aspiring business owners aged 18-39 to launch successful businesses in Canada. Apply for a $20,000 business start up loan + up to an additional $40,000 from BDC.

The Business Development Canada (BDC) is known as the entrepreneur’s bank, providing project financing, business advisory services and capital to move your business to the next level. Their programs and services are designed for small and medium businesses, and they are funded by the Federal Government.

ACC Futures provides businesses with financing options outside of a traditional bank model. They work with entrepreneurs to find suitable financing, connect you with people or programs to support your vision, and promote business innovation. They offer a selection of microloans with preferential rates. They are funded by the Federal Government.

Farm Credit Canada (FCC) provides financing, business management knowledge and expertise, training and much more for agriculture, agri-food, and food and beverage processors in Canada. They administer the Starter Loan, Transition Loan, Young Farmer Loan, and Young Entrepreneur Loan programs.”

The Cornwall Business Enterprise Centre (CBEC) provides practical assistance to effectively grow your business. From hiring employees, finding commercial real estate, marketing, e-commerce, and succession planning, they can support you every step of the way.

The Business Benefits Finder interactive tool will help you find programs and services to help your business grow. This includes grants and financing, loans and capital investments, tax credits, wage subsidies and interns, expert advice, partnering and collaboration, and researchers and facilities suited to your business.”