The federal government has declared 2011 as the Year of the Entrepreneur, as a way to highlight the essential role that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will play in securing Canada's ongoing economic recovery. The majority of bank business customers are small businesses and banks work hard to meet the needs of this market – one that is increasingly competitive, diverse and technologically savvy. In fact, all banks have dedicated small business departments to help their SME customers.
The Small Business section provides the information that small business owners need to start and run their own business, including things to consider when operating a small business, how to write a business plan and the different financing options available to you.
Many banks, government agencies and industry associations also provide support and resources for starting a small business. Links to their websites are provided throughout this section.
