Services
The Regional Business Centre is a one-stop source for information and guidance on starting, expanding and operating a business. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or existing business owner, we are here to help. We provide the following services to help you succeed, free of charge:
ONE-ON-ONE CONSULTATIONS
Book a free consultation to talk, brainstorm and plan. A confidential one-on-one consultation with our professional staff will allow you to ask all of your business-related questions ranging from startup regulations, to marketing ideas, to business planning and everything in between. Consultations are available in our office or at your place of business.
SEMINARS, EVENTS AND NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
With the support of our collaboration network, we offer year-round business related learning and networking opportunities, from regularly scheduled seminars to annual special events like the Bridges to Better Business Conference (Note: some special events may have an associated cost).
GUIDANCE ON LICENSES, PERMITS, REGISTRATIONS AND REGULATIONS
We simplify the process of finding information on business permits and licences from all levels of government – federal, provincial and municipal. Our staff will take you through the Startup Guide and provide you with customized guidance regarding potential permits, licences and regulations that may apply to your specific business.
BUSINESS PLAN SUPPORT
Our Business Plan Guide as well as our consulting and review service can get you on the right track in your business plan writing process. The independent point of view from our professional staff can help you refine your business plan, identify gaps or inconsistencies, and determine which areas need strengthening. Book a free consultation to have your business plan reviewed in our office, at your place of business or at a designated outreach location through our community outreach program.
MARKET RESEARCH
Through our extensive databases, market research website section and Statistics Guide, we provide access to market research data to help you determine the feasibility of your business idea. Our Research Officer will work with you to identify the information you need including, but not limited to, local demographic information, industry analysis, company profiles, supplier listings, etc.
FINANCING AND FUNDING GUIDANCE
Our Funding Handbook outlines the funding resources that are available to help you start or grow your business. We will discuss your financing requirements and direct you to the programs that are best suited to your needs.
PROGRAMS
We host a variety of programs designed to encourage young people to develop business skills. Visit the Programs & Events section of our website to discover the programs available to support you as you explore entrepreneurship as a viable career option.
GUIDANCE TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Our collaboration network form an extensive network of valuable business resources and offer professional advice/services to our clients in the field of accounting, legal, insurance, banking and more. Ask us how our network can assist you with your business needs.
BUSINESS RESOURCE LIBRARY
We’ve compiled an extensive business resource library that provides information on a wide range of topics including business planning, market research, financing sources, importing and exporting, patents, copyrights and trademarks, marketing, etc. Visit the Tools & Resources section of our website for electronic copies or drop by our office for hard copies of selected resources.
BUSINESS REGISTRATION
If you require a Master Business Licence, we can help you obtain one via Service Ontario’s online portal—this method requires payment by credit card. For all other forms of payment, you may access the registration system at the Service Ontario centre at 199 Larch Street in Sudbury. You can also check out our step by step video on how to do this yourself.