Business basics. start-up. growth.

STARTING A BUSINESS

Starting a new business takes motivation, desire, and talent, as well as research and planning. Let the Hamilton Business Centre (HBC) provide you with the guidance and expert advice you need to start and grow a sustainable business through complimentary training, resources, workshops, and 1-1 consultations.

download the 2025 start-up guide

Free 60 Minute one-on-one consults

FREE training, workshops & resources

New to Business? Start Here:

Starting a new business can be exciting, but it can be hard to know where to begin. Learn the steps required to start a small business at your own pace anywhere, anytime with the Ten Steps to Starting a Business online guide. Available 24/7 with written and video resources available. Register today for exclusive access.

Topics covered include:

Conducting market research
Preparing a business plan
Choosing a business structure
Registering your business
Business number (BN)

Licensing requirements
Zoning regulations
Additional regulations
Financing your business
Additional resources

learn more & register

Opening a Restaurant? Start Here:

The new Opening a Restaurant in Hamilton guide is here to give you an overview of the 4 steps required to successfully open a restaurant in Hamilton, important departments to connect with and contact details, costs and timelines, and additional resources. Available online 24/7.

Topics covered include:

Visiting the HBC for expert advice
Choosing a location & zoning requirements
Building permit requirements
Business licensing requirements
Additional food safety requirements & resources

visit the guide

Startup Resources:

Register your Business

In October 2021 the Ontario Government announced a new online business registration system, open to Ontario businesses 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Learn how to register your new Sole Proprietorship Business Registration online with this step-by-step guide.

start now

Free E-learning Courses

Every business needs a solid foundation. These free e-learning courses provided by Small Business Centres Ontario will set you up with the skills and knowledge needed to successfully launch and grow your business. Complete each lesson in 30 minutes or less!

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Food Product Business Resources

Have you ever wanted to launch your own food or beverage product business but didn’t know how or where to start? Searching for all the right information can be time-consuming and confusing, especially if you’re new to the industry. Whether you are looking for shared commercial kitchen space, or help creating nutritional labels, we have resources to help.

Explore the resources

Female business owner registering business online

Find Sources of Funding

Access a list of various grants, loans, tax credits, and wage subsidies, that provide support for a range of sectors from digital media and healthcare to food processing, retail, and more. In addition, you will also find information on municipal programs such as grants, incentives, and rebates.

find funding

Business Startup Guides

A list of business how-to guides that cover starting and operating a business across most major industries as well as checklists specifically for Canadian entrepreneurs.

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Finance and Tax Resources for Small Businesses

These resources will give you an overview of the different taxes that may affect your business and provide you with information on tools, programs, and services that can help you meet your business tax obligations.

Learn More

Ontario Business Number (BN)

It’s important to map out what’s legally required for your business to operate prior to offering the physical thing you do or sell as a business. In Ontario, a business number (BN) might be one of them. Find out if your business needs one.

Do you need a Bn?

Digital Resource Hub

200+ of the best free and freemium digital tools and resources available to help your small business grow and thrive online! From building a website to learning a new skill!

go to hub

Ontario Business Registry:

Is your new business name taken? Search the Ontario Business Registry for free.

search the registry