Starting a Business

Do you have a great business concept, but don't know which step to take next? Have you visited the Highlands and decided that there is no better place to start a new business or open an existing business than here in Haliburton County? Come into HCDC and talk to knowledgeable staff about budgeting, planning and getting started. If you are interested in doing business in the Highlands visit the Move Your Business Here section of this website.

Register a Business
If you are operating a sole proprietorship or partnership under a name that is not your exact legal name, it is a legal requirement in Ontario to register a business name. This is where registering a business begins. A Business Identification Number (BIN) is assigned upon the registration of a business name, as part of the Master Business License from the Ontario Ministry of Consumber and Business Services.

Designed to simplify interactions with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), a business number (BN) is a nine digit number assigned to a business when it is registered for any of the 4 CRA accounts :

• HST
• Payroll deductions
• Importer/Exporter
• Corporate Income Tax

To register you will need the Name and Social Insurance Number of at least one owner or director and the Major Business Activity.

** If you are currently unemployed, but are thinking of harnassing your entrepreneurial spirit by starting a business, the Self-Employment Benefits Program might be right for you! Follow the link to the SEB page of our website and if you are interested in the program, give our office a call for more details!