10 Steps to Starting a New Business

1. Visit the Business Enterprise Centre of Sarnia-Lambton - call 519-332-1820 or email Fraser Parry or Matthew Slotwinski. They would be happy to speak with you.

2. Research your business idea

What to consider   1. Direct Competitors free 2. Brainstorming free 3. Potential Customers free   Where to go   1. Business Enterprise Centre of Sarnia-Lambton free 2. Lambton County Libraries free 3. Post-secondary Institutions free 4. Internet free   Sources of information   1. Government Information free 2. Associations variable costs 3. Periodicals free 4. Customers and Suppliers free 5. Mentors free

3. Select your business advisors

• Lawyer
• Accountant
• Banker
• Insurance Agent/Broker
• W.S.I.B. and support from the Safe Workplace Associations
• Health and Safety System Resources (including direction from your Business Enterprise Centre.)

4. Select your business structure

• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnership
• Corporation Know the difference between these types of businesses. Your choice will likely affect both the amount and type of record-keeping that you will have to do, as well as the taxation levels of your business. Be sure to consult with your business advisors before you start business.

5. Clarify common administrative issues

• Business Name Search and Registration
• Registering a Business Number (H.S.T., etc.)
• Business Income Tax and Payroll "Source Deductions" Inquiries
• Remittances to federal, provincial and municipal bodies.

6. Select a business location

• Type of Operation Intended
• Location Considerations
• Leasing Considerations

7. Check licensing, land use and zoning requirements

• Zoning
• Municipal Licenses and Compliance with By-laws
• Special Regulations and Licenses
• Accommodations and Liquor Licensed Establishments
• Building Permits
• Issues of Public Health and Safety

8. Write your business plan

Learn more about developing a business plan

9. Sources of start-up financing

• Self Financing
• Family and Friends
• Partners and Shareholders
• Private Investors
• Institutional Lenders
• Government Programs

10. Continue to visit your Business Enterprise Centre

We help individuals prepare for the startup of a new business, and provide counselling for stabilization and growth of existing businesses.

The Province of Ontario is a founding partner and on-going supporter of the Business Enterprise Centre of Sarnia-Lambton.