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Planning a business

Assessing your readiness, choosing a business structure, market research and writing a business plan.

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Developing your business idea.

Turning your idea into a profitable business model

Types of business ownership

Determining whether incorporation, partnership or sole proprietorship is right for your business

Writing a business plan

How to write a successful business plan

Business plan template

Download templates and examples of a business plan and financial plan

Choosing a location for your business

What to consider when selecting a commercial space for your business

Researching your target market

Get the demographic data you need to better understand your potential customers and their needs

canadian business plan

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Sample business plans and templates

Sample business plans and templates can help you develop a professional document that will serve as an in-depth marketing tool to convince others of your venture's potential for success. However, creating your own plan can be a complex process, and you may need the assistance of a professional (like an accountant) depending on the type of business you have (or want to run), and what you are seeking in terms of investment.

Business development organizations and Canadian banks have free templates, writing guides, sample plans, and even interactive tools available online. These resources allow you to walk through a plan line by line. You will get a sense of the information you might be asked to provide when you are looking for financing, for example.

While many of these online tools are free, you may choose to purchase software that will help you prepare your plans and forecasts.

Business development organizations

These organizations may provide tools to help their clients prepare professional business plans through their regional offices or via the Web.

  • SBC Ontario - What is a Business Plan? Take a free online small business course about various types of business plans and how these might fit your business and intended audience.
  • CBDC - Business Plan You can use this fillable business planning tool to prepare your business plan.
  • BDC -  Business plan template You can create your own professional business plan with the help of the  BDC  sample plan and business plan template.
  • Futurpreneur Canada - Business Plan Writer Are you ready to start your business? You can use this online tool to develop, write, and download your business plan.
  • Planning for success: your guide to preparing a business and marketing plan Learn about 9 essential sections of a business plan and what to include in each one.

Canadian banks and lenders

If you approach a bank for help with financing, the bankers will want your business plan to include the specific information they need to make their decision. These requirements may vary from one bank to another, and from one type of business to another. Therefore, if you know which institution(s) you would like to speak with, it's a good idea to see what key sections they would like included.

  • Bank of Montreal - Tools and tips for small business owners Find planning resources that can help you start, grow and improve your business.
  • RBC Royal Bank - Starting a Business Learn about key sections of a business plan.
  • Scotiabank - Business Plan Writer Access an interactive tool to help you create an effective business plan.
  • National Bank - My Business Model If you are starting or growing a business, use this business model tool to help with your planning process.
  • Farm Credit Canada - Business Plan Tools for Producers Get business plan information specific to farm operations and agriculture businesses.

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Related Topics

  • Business plan guide
  • Business planning success

COMMENTS

  1. Planning a business - Canada.ca

    Find out how to write a business plan and access templates, sample business plans, market research information and statistics.

  2. Business plan template for entrepreneurs | BDC.ca

    A professional business plan that will guide your company’s actions, detail the steps to profitability, and help you submit a successful funding application.

  3. How to write a business plan | BDC.ca

    A business plan explains how a company brings in money and is run day-to-day. There isn’t a single standard format, but most plans cover these four main areas: Company profile. Sales and marketing. Operations. Financials. Many plans also include an executive summary with an overview of your project and a simple explanation of your activities.

  4. Sample business plans and templates - Canada

    Business development organizations and Canadian banks have free templates, writing guides, sample plans, and even interactive tools available online. These resources allow you to walk through a plan line by line.

  5. A Complete Guide to Starting a Business in Canada

    Creating a business plan tailored to launching a new business in Canada requires attention to specific Canadian nuances. Start by articulating your business concept in the context of the Canadian market, emphasizing local customer needs and preferences.

  6. Interactive Business Plan Builder

    Create Your Business Plan. Why Use the Business Plan Builder? Create a new business idea. Shift your existing business model. Develop a detailed business plan. Secure funding. Frequently Asked Questions. Is there a time commitment to complete my business plan? Should I complete all sections in chronological order?