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Getting Started

This section contains resources that will help you assess whether entrepreneurship is right for you, develop a small business idea and learn about the basics of starting a small business.

Small Business Basics

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This guide is an excellent place to start for prospective entrepreneurs and breaks down the process of starting a business into 14 steps.

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Get tools and information on what to consider before starting a business, and to help you identify opportunities to grow your business. Learn about programs and services available in your region to help your business succeed.

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Provides links to information about starting a business in Canada, organized by topic and province or territory.

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Do you want to start a new business in BC? Learn where you can get all the info on how to create a new business, register it, finance it and meet local licensing requirements.

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Aimed at non-Canadian companies and entrepreneurs who want general information starting and operating a business in BC.

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Starting a new business, entering new markets, government programs and services. Check under "Resources" to access free checklists to help you plan for all parts of setting up a small business.

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Site from UBC provides information on starting a wide variety of businesses.

Self-Assessments

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Are you the entrepreneurial type? Here is a tool to help better measure your entrepreneurial potential. This questionnaire includes 50 statements and will take about 15 minutes to complete. There are no right or wrong answers. Your honesty is what counts in giving you a clearer picture of your potential and suitability.

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This article provides some important factors that one should consider when trying to assess when is the right time to start a business.

Developing an Idea

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If you're thinking of starting a business, but are not sure what type of business to start, Entrepreneur magazine regularly adds articles on new trends in business start-ups and unusual business success stories.

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Great site to help you get ideas for your business. Current trends for all industries.

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Lists international consumer trends. If you are seeking ideas for a small business, check this site out.

Digital Library Resources

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Business and Careers Subject Icon

A comprehensive research resource for all areas of business and economics. It includes such noteworthy publications as The Economist, and major news sources such as The Wall Street Journal.

Access:
Everywhere for Vancouver residents

Recommended Titles

Call Number
Level 5 Reference Magazines 658.8708 C212
Publication Year
2020
This publication features trends in franchising and includes monthly listings of potential franchises to buy into.
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Level 5 Reference Magazines 658.905 E61
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2020
News stories about entrepreneurialism, small business management, and business opportunities.
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John J. Liptak
Call Number
658.9 Z11L7e
Publication Year
2012
One of the U.S.'s leading career assessors created 12 quizzes to see if you have what it takes to work for yourself.
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Cover Image for The Magic of Tiny Business
Sharon Rowe
Call Number
658.9 Z11R87m
Publication Year
2018
A successful business doesn't have to be huge. Rowe explains the benefits of staying small and having your business fit into your life.
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Cover Image for Starting a Successful Business in Canada Kit
J. D. James
Call Number
658.9 Z11J2a11
Publication Year
2010
Everything you need to know about turning your good idea into a profitable business is explored and explained in this informative guide.
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Call Number
658.9 Z11S7965e3
Publication Year
2015
This guide offers critical start-up essentials and a comprehensive view of what it takes to survive the crucial first three years.
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Call Number
658.9 Z11S7965e4
Publication Year
2018
This detailed guide from Entrepreneur magazine walks you through all the steps involved in successfully launching a new business.