Business support organizations 

You don't become an expert business manager overnight. Seeking the advice of peers, professional business counsellors and coaches can help you transition from new business owner to experienced entrepreneur.

Some financing organizations also offer networking, coaching, and other business support services. Visit our Grants and financing section for more information.

• Grants and financing

  Find out how to access money for your business.

• Contact the Canada Business Network

  The Canada Business Network has centres across the country that offer guidance, information and resources to help make your journey in business a successful one.

• Accredited Professionals

  Do you need professional help for your business? Access this national, online database of accountants, legal professionals, valuators and auditors.

• Business consultants

  Find business consultants, development organizations and specialists in the areas of exporting, financial services, human resources, marketing, and more.

Start-up and business development

Access a wide range of business support services that can guide you in starting or growing your business.

• Guest Advisor Program

  Get answers to your questions and discuss your business concerns with an expert.

• BDC Ask a professional

  Get free advice on monthly business topics from a BDC Consulting professional.

• BDC Consulting

  Find out how BDC's customized consulting services can help your business at all stages of development.

Networking and chambers of commerce

Find out about business opportunities and specific networking forums.

• British Columbia Chambers of Commerce
  Applies only to: British Columbia

  Visit your local B.C. Chamber of Commerce to access information on membership benefits, partnerships and networking opportunities in your community.

• Canadian chambers of commerce and boards of trade

  A strong community business network can benefit your company. Access your local chamber of commerce..

• Purchasing Management Association of Canada

  Learn how to better manage your supply chain by signing up for seminars, webinars, introductory training or a full-scale accreditation program.

• Rural Opportunities Network

  Explore business ideas, promote yourself, and connect with other Canadians engaged in the sustainable use of natural resources.

• WEConnect Canada Certification

  Find out how your company can be certified as a Women Business Enterprise to increase your access to contract opportunities in Canada and abroad.

Coaching, mentoring and training

Connect with experienced business advisors who can help you develop your skills and achieve your business goals. 

• Aboriginal Business Mentorship Program

  As an Aboriginal business owner and a member of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, you could get a mentor to help you develop your skills.

• Business advisory centres
  Applies only to: British Columbia

  If you are an Aboriginal entrepreneur, you can access free business advice and other services for business start-up, expansion, partnerships, and planning.

• Canadian Executive Service Organization — Aboriginal services

  You can get help from volunteers to develop and grow your aboriginal business.

• Canadian Women in Communications

  Are you a woman entrepreneur in the communications sector who is looking for mentorship or guidance? Find out how leadership development and mentoring services can help you achieve your business goals.

• Community Futures Development Corporations — Western Canada
  Applies only to: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan

  If you live in a rural region of Western Canada and want to start or grow your business, you can get business counseling and training in your area.

• Marketing Booster Program

  Find out how to market your small business and get up to 40 hours of individual business coaching when you participate in these interactive marketing workshops.

Industry sector resources

Learn about organizations that offer support services to businesses in your industry.

• Canadian Women in Communications

  Are you a woman entrepreneur in the communications sector who is looking for mentorship or guidance? Find out how leadership development and mentoring services can help you achieve your business goals.

• FrontCounter BC
  Applies only to: British Columbia

  If you have a business in mining, forestry, agriculture or land and water, you can get help with applications, licenses and permits.