The Orangeville & 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 business information and support.

Business registration

Need help to register your business with the Province of Ontario? Business registration assistance is available through the SBEC office, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Our services are offered both in-person or virtually and appointments are encouraged. Contact us to book a meeting or to obtain general information about starting or growing your business.

Registering a sole proprietorship, general partnership, or “operating as” name

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.

Our staff are available to assist you through the process. Contact us if you need assistance.

Information required for registration includes:

  • the proprietor's (and/or all partners) name(s) and home address(es)
  • type of business and major activity
  • business address 

Existing corporations registering an “operating as” name will require an incorporation number.

Registering an incorporation

Businesses wishing to incorporate in Ontario can register on the Ontario Business Registry.

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.

Registering a CRA business number

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.

Business resources

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.