Running a business in Canada.

Running a business doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Learn proven strategies for finances, operations and growth — all tailored to Canadian entrepreneurs and business owners.

Ready-to-use checklist

First 30 days (operation launch)

Confirm BN, GST/HST, payroll accounts with CRA; set up My Business Account.
Validate all required permits/licenses via BizPaL and start any applications that take time.
Open business bank account(s), merchant accounts, and set accounting software.
Set up bookkeeping routine and monthly reconciliation schedule.
Plan to track cashflow daily, weekly, monthly, and annually.
Create legally compliant employment agreements, job descriptions, and firing processes.
Purchase essential insurance quotes and pick appropriate policies.
Register for worker’s compensation / workplace safety insurance if required.
Put in place basic HR – onboarding checklist, payroll enrollment, workplace policies, vacation, remote work, sick leave, and termination checklist.
Define operational processes – order fulfillment, returns, invoicing, customer service…etc.

Next 60–90 days (stabilize operations)

Implement payroll processes and register workers’ compensation if necessary.
Document 5–10 core SOPs (sales, fulfillment, returns, invoicing, support).
Implement basic CRM and email marketing; record baseline KPIs.
Finalize supplier contracts and payment terms.
Review your marketing – website, lead generation, and sales team.

Quarterly (repeat every 3 months)

Reconcile books and file any quarterly remittances.
Review KPIs (revenue, gross margin, CAC, churn/retention).
Review licenses/permits renewal dates and compliance obligations.
Update cash forecast and financing plan.

Annual (end of fiscal year)

Prepare year-end bookkeeping for tax return; engage accountant if needed.
File corporate/sole proprietor tax return and issue T4s/T4As.
Review insurance coverage and renew/up-size if needed.
Strategic planning: set budget, hiring plan, and capital expenditure plan for next year.
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