Services – Regional Business Services – Regional Business

Services

The Regional Business Centre is your one-stop source for information and guidance on starting, expanding, and operating a business. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or an established business owner, we are here to help. Services are available in both French and English, and we proudly offer the following supports — all free of charge — to help you succeed.

Book a free consultation with our team virtually or in-person.

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One-on-One Business 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 virtually.

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Webinars, Events & Networking Opportunities

With the support of our collaboration network, we offer year-round business related learning and networking opportunities, from regularly scheduled webinars to annual special events like Homegrown Ventures (Note: some special events may have an associated cost).

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Guidance on Licenses, Permits, Registrations & 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.

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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.

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Financing & Funding Guidance

Whether you are looking for a business loan, grants, or other types of funding, our team will discuss your financing requirements and direct you to the programs that are best suited to your needs.

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Programs

We host a variety of programs designed to encourage young people to develop business skills. Visit the Programs section of our website to discover the programs available to support you as you explore entrepreneurship as a viable career option.

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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.

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Business Registration

We can assist with registering or renewing a Business Name Registration (formerly known as a Master Business License) for sole proprietorships, partnerships, or “operating as” names linked to an existing corporation. Please note that we do not provide support with the incorporation process. For details on incorporating a business, refer to our Incorporation Guide available on our Resources page.

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Starting a Business as a Newcomer

The Regional Business Centre offers free, personalized support to help newcomers start or grow a business in Greater Sudbury. We provide guidance on business planning, registration, permits, funding opportunities, and connections to local resources.

Please be aware that our services are focused on business development only. We are not involved in federal or legal processes related to status in Canada and there are currently no local programs that offer residency or status in Canada based on entrepreneurship. If a meeting or consultation is primarily focused on these topics, it will be concluded and you will be referred to the appropriate resources for further assistance. 

For questions beyond business support, please consult the appropriate government department or a licensed professional.

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Support for Selling, Transferring or Closing Your Business

We offer free, confidential one-on-one consultations to help small business owners navigate the process of selling their business, transferring ownership or closing their business. We can help you with succession planning, identify next steps, explore relevant tools and resources, and connect with local professionals who can provide specialized advice and support throughout the process.

Ontario Small Business Advisory Centres (OSBAC) services and programs are delivered locally by the Regional Business Centre and funded in partnership with the Government of Ontario.

City of Greater Sudbury
OSBAC Ontario Small Business Advisory Centre
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