There’s nothing small about the impact of small businesses in Canada.
Small and medium-sized companies represent 99.8 percent of all companies and employ 64 percent of private sector workers in Canada.
And this month, we’re excited to be celebrating these businesses as part of Small Business Month in Canada.
If you own a small business in Canada, you’re fortunate to have access to a number of people and organizations that are committed to your success.
To celebrate Small Business Month, we compiled some of these resources with information about how they can help with your success. Whether you’re looking for help with funding, need advice for growing your business, or want to become a better marketer — these resources can help.
Business Resources
1. Chamber of Commerce
In addition to the number of benefits that come with membership in the Chamber of Commerce, organizations like Canadian Chamber of Commerce, BC Chamber of Commerce, and Mississauga Board of Trade, also offer free resources to help you stay informed about new policies and issues that could impact your business. The Chambers also host a full schedule of events, both online and in-person.
Learn more:
- Canadian Chamber of Commerce (@CdnChamberofCom)
- BC Chamber of Commerce (@bcchamberofcom)
- Mississauga Board of Trade (@MBOTOntario)
2. Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
The Business Development Bank of Canada sponsors Small Business Week during the third week of October (October 18 – 24), which features live events across Canada.
Their website also features helpful articles with advice for things like:
- Defining your business strategy
- Recruiting the right employees
- Investing in technology
- Improving operational efficiency
You can find all of these helpful resources here.
3. Canadian Association of Women Executives & Entrepreneurs (CAWEE)
For nearly forty years, The Canadian Association of Women Executives and Entrepreneurs (CAWEE) has been helping Canadian businesswomen build valuable, lasting relationships to strengthen their business.
You can check out their full schedule of member and non-member events here.
4. Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses (CFIB)
The Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses (CFIB) offers business support services to small business owners throughout Canada. In addition to advocating on behalf of independent business owners, CFIB’s Media Centre provides up-to-date news and advice for businesses across Canada.
5. Enterprise Toronto
Enterprise Toronto is committed to supporting startup businesses in the Toronto area. They have free resources to help you start your business, and will connect you with the services you need to run your business more effectively. They also offer free resources for organizations looking to plan events in the Toronto area.
6. Small Business BC
Small Business BC is hosting a series of seminars and free events in celebration of Small Business Month.
In addition to these events, Small Business BC offers tools and resources for business owners at any stage of their business — whether you’re starting a business, growing a business, or planning to exit a business.
Marketing Advice
7. Canadian Marketing Association (CMA)
Whether you like to learn in-person or online, the Canadian Marketing Association (CMA) offers a variety of educational resources you can use to be a better marketer. Check out the Canadian Marketing Blog for actionable advice to improve your marketing, or find an educational event in your area.
8. Top Dog Social Media
If you’re looking for daily social media news and advice, Top Dog Social Media has you covered. The Top Dog Social Media blog is packed with helpful advice for making social media work for your business. They also offer a free LinkedIn Master Class, presented by Top Dog Social Media founder and bestselling author of The LinkedIn Code, Melonie Dodaro.
9. RebeccaColeman.ca
Social media expert, Rebecca Coleman, offers practical social media advice that you can use to build your social media presence.
10. MarcGordon.ca
If you’re looking for quick and actionable small business marketing and business management advice, check out Marc Gordon’s High 5 for Business articles. Each article is around 300 words and shares five practical tips in the areas of marketing, sales, and customer service.
Bonus Resources
Constant Contact offers a number of marketing resources and services for small businesses in Canada.
You can also find a full calendar of marketing seminars and training events in Canada in our event calendar or explore common questions and answers to Canada’s anti-spam legislation.
Happy Small Business Month!
Looking for additional marketing advice? Check out these 11 tips from Canadian small business experts.
