Starting a business
There are over 30,000 small and medium sized businesses in Nova Scotia, representing over 92% of all businesses. There is a huge opportunity for entrepreneurs to find success and prosper in Nova Scotia.
Halifax has been noted as one of the most cost-effective places to do business in North America.
Important factors in success are thoroughly evaluating and planning. Before you begin planning for your business, make sure you are legally eligible to do so.
Tools to help determine whether or not you’re ready:
- The Connections Guide: An Immigrant’s Guide to Starting a Business in Nova Scotia – This online guide contains a self-assessment section that will evaluate your experience, knowledge and skills to determine if you are ready for entrepreneurship in Canada.
- Canada Business – Canada Business asks the question “Is entrepreneurship right for you?”, and provides users with another great self-assessment tool. This site also contains a useful small business survival guide and tips to keep your new business afloat. If you’re interested in taking the franchise route or purchasing an existing business, you can find checklists for this type of venture.
- Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia – There are many resources, tools and workshops available at ISANS that can help determine if you’re ready to start a new business.
- Business Development Bank of Canada – Materials to help determine whether you are ready to embark in a new business initiative outside of urban areas. They also have a self-assessment tool, and handy business planning tips and templates.