Why small business advice matters

Running a small business is exciting, but often isolating. When questions arise, having trusted source guidance makes all the difference between stress and smart choices. Not to mention knowing exactly where to go, helps you get the answers you need, when you need them.‍

A new destination for small business support

At Huumans, we're building a hub where you'll find the right tools, services, and support you need to run your business with greater confidence. ‍While we're just getting started, you're invited to join us and explore what we're building.

Where else can you find small business advice?

There are a number of places small businesses can turn to. Some of the names you’ve likely heard before and some may be new. ‍

Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

What it is: The CRA oversees taxes, benefits and related programs for most Canadian provinces and territories. (Revenu Québec provides these services for Québec.)

What it offers: The CRA has several resource portals dedicated to small business information. 

• Sole proprietors and self-employed income earners 

• Small and medium business tax information 

• Checklist for starting a small business  (Bonus resource: BizPal is a free service that makes it simple to register your business and apply for key licensees.)

In terms of the rules and regulations, the CRA is a primary source. If you’re unsure of what’s happening or a specific rule, go to the source. However, the CRA doesn’t always use the friendliest or easy-to-understand wording.

Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB)

What it is: CFIB is Canada’s leading non-profit, representing more than 95,000 small and medium-sized businesses across industries and regions.

What it offers:

• Advocacy: CFIB lobbies the federal government on crucial issues like tax fairness and regulatory burdens.

• Business help line: Call 1-833-568-2342 to talk to an expert about your small business questions.

• Resource hub: Search through a range of small business topics from marketing and management to taxes and technology.  

• Webinar portal: Browse past webinars and learn about upcoming webinars. However, this feature is only available to CFIB members. 
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Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)

‍What it is: The only bank in Canada designed solely to serve entrepreneurs at every stage from startup to expansion.

What it offers:

• Financing: Offers programs for growth capital, technology adoption, equipment, and working capital.

• Advisory services: Guidance on financial management, market development, leadership training, and export readiness. (If needed, they can also help you fund these services.)

• Entrepreneur’s toolkit: They’ve pulled all their resources into one space where you can search by topic.

• Research and Reports: Timely insights on business resilience, economic recovery, and specific sectors.
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Canadian Chamber of Commerce

What it is: The national organization that leads chambers of commerce all across Canada, advocating for businesses and communities across the counrty. 

What it offers: 

• Advocacy: The national chamber works on behalf of businesses for a number of causes from affordable housing to artificial intelligence.

• Small business tools: An entire page of resources ranging from a benefits finder to an exporting guide.

• Association and member directories: Search for a local chamber or chamber member. (Bonus resource: The CRA has a lists of local Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) across Canada.) ‍

• Networking events: Both the national and local chamber of commerce encourage members to connect regularly. 
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Futurpreneur Canada

What it is: A start-up incubator for Canadians aged 18-39 that combines modest financing with experienced mentorship.

What it offers:

• Startup financing: Low-interest loans up to $60,000, with mentorship included for two years. (To apply, you must submit a business plan.)

• Rock my business: A free, three-part series where you can rock your idea, businesss plan, cash flow or launch.

• Resource centre: Search through resources on a range of topics from marketing and mentorship to money and finance.

• Inclusivity: There are programs for female, black and indigenous start-ups.

Community Futures Canada

What it is: A network of 260+ non-profit, community-run organizations delivering loans, advisory services, and training in rural and remote regions.

What it offers:

• Interactive service map: Click on your province or territory to learn more about resources in your area.

• Success stories: Be inspired by other small businesses from around the country and learn how Community Futures helped. 

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