The Orangeville and Area Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) provides guidance and support to start-ups and existing small businesses in the early years of operation. Whether you're thinking about starting a business, developing your business plan, or growing or changing your established business, we can provide information and support. Stay up to date on local business news and events by subscribing to our monthly e-newsletter. 

Setting up your business

We are available to assist you in setting up your business. Our services are offered both in-person or virtually and appointments are encouraged. Contact us to book a meeting to obtain general information about starting or growing your business.

Register your business - formerly a Master Business License

To operate a business in Ontario using anything but your own legal name, you must register with the Province of Ontario. You can register your business online through the Ontario Business Registry.

We can guide business owners through this process. To schedule an appointment, contact us at [email protected].

If you are registering a new business, you will need:

  • Business name and structure
  • Credit card or VISA debit card
  • Access to email with your own cell phone for verification codes
  • Login information if you have an existing Service Ontario account

If you are renewing your business registration, you will need:

  • Credit card or VISA debit card
  • Access to email with your own cell phone for verification codes
  • Login information if you have an existing Service Ontario account
    • If you don’t have a Service Ontario account, you may need a Company Key
    • This is a separate process – it can take up to 3 days if the Company Key is sent by mail
    • When you receive the Company Key, you will be able to associate your business with the Service Ontario account and we can assist you with renewing your business registration

If you are registering a corporation, we recommend that you consult a lawyer, accountant, and an incorporation specialist firm due to the complexities of the process. This also assures that you are familiar with all of the legal and reporting requirements of a corporation, and your personal responsibilities.

Register for payroll or HST

If you require an HST or payroll account for your business you will need a business number with the Canada Revenue Agency. You can register online or contact us to book a meeting for assistance. 

For most businesses, it is mandatory to register and collect Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) (13%) when you reach $30,000 in revenue over four consecutive calendar quarters or less. Before this mark, registration is voluntary for most businesses. 

Register a WSIB account

Most businesses with employees must register for WSIB within 10 calendar days of hiring your first employee. Learn more about the requirements for WSIB. 

If you are not required to register or are a business owner, you can still choose to have WSIB insurance. You can register online or contact us to book a meeting for assistance. 

Consider business insurance

All businesses should consider having insurance coverage. Learn more about the different types of business insurance and their features. 

Business planning templates

Below are some helpful resources for those looking to grow or start a business.

Business plan template

A business plan is central to how you start, grow, and develop your business. It will help to ensure that you remain mindful of all the functions of a successful business, from operational and financial objectives to the small details, such as budgeting, product offering, competitive analysis, and market planning. 

Download our free business plan template. It includes instructions for each section, followed by corresponding fillable worksheets.

Financial plan template
A financial plan will help you make projections and demonstrate your businesses sales and expenses assumptions. Download our free financial plan template. It is divided into several parts to simplify the cash-flow creation for a two year period. 

Business permits and licences

Depending on your business activity, you may require provincial or municipal business licences and permits to operate in the Town of Orangeville.

Sign permits

A sign permit is required to install a sign on your business in the Town of Orangeville. Review the requirements and application to get a sign permit.

Zoning requirements

Review our Zoning By-law and maps to confirm where your business can be located in the Town of Orangeville.

Home-based businesses

In the Town of Orangeville, home-based businesses are known as "home occupations". The Town’s Zoning By-law classifies home occupations into Class A, B or C categories, each of which are permitted in certain types of dwellings and must comply with specific criteria.

Business milestones

Many new businesses choose to have a grand opening to celebrate the start of their new venture. The Town of Orangeville would like to celebrate with you. You can receive a congratulatory certificate and request for the Mayor and Council members to attend (schedule permitting). To get started, tell us about your business.