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Start your business

Last updated on January 21, 2026

Learn essential steps to start and run a successful business in B.C.

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1. Develop a business idea

Evaluate your idea

Before you invest time and money, it’s important to make sure your idea is viable. 

Market research

Entrepreneurs and business owners need to understand their customers, competition and market trends. Using data can help you make better decisions and estimate costs.

Business planning

A business plan will help you to start and grow your business. It shows you where your business might have problems or do well. A plan lets you make smart choices before you commit your time or money. 

Marketing and sales plan

An effective marketing and sales plan builds awareness, attracts customers and drives growth. Explore how to stay focused on your customers, adapt to changes and improve results. 

2. Choose your business structure

When you register your business, you’ll need to select the business structure that best fits your needs.

In B.C., the 3 most common business structures are:

  • Sole proprietorship, owned and operated by one individual
  • General partnership, owned by 2 or more partners
  • Incorporated company, owned by shareholders

Learn about all for-profit business structures in B.C., or compare your options and find the best fit use the business structure wizard.

Launch Business Structures Wizard

If you are interested in starting a society also known as not-for-profit or non-profit organizations see:

Talk to a lawyer or chartered professional accountant

Each business structure has different legal and financial implications. Get advice from a lawyer or accountant to help you decide which structure is best for your business.

3. Pick a business name

Submit your business name request for approval online using BC Registries Online Services or in person at your nearest Service BC.

4. Register or incorporate your business

You must register your business with the Province of British Columbia through BC Registries and Online Services. Registration differs based on your business structure. 

Once registered, you will receive a Business Number (BN). Your BN can be used as an identifier for:

  • Remitting taxes to government 
  • Canada Pension Plan (CPP) premiums 
  • Employment Insurance (EI) premiums
  • WorkSafeBC payments

5. Apply for permits and licences

Depending on your business location and activities, you may need permits or licences from the local, provincial or federal government. 

Use BizPaL, a free online tool, to find out which permits and licences your business may need. Based on your information, BizPaL can:

  • Generate a list of suggested permits and licences
  • Help you identify relevant legislation and laws

Launch BizPaL

Check with your local government or First Nation to discuss specific licence and zoning requirements in your area.  

6. Register for taxes  

Provincial Sales Tax (PST)

If you sell or rent taxable goods or services, or provide accommodation in B.C., you may need to register with the Ministry of Finance to collect PST.

Federal Goods and Services Tax (GST)

If you sell or provide goods and services in Canada and your annual worldwide GST taxable sales are more than $30,000, you may need to register for GST.

Corporate Income Tax account

If your business is incorporated, or you are a non-resident corporation operating in Canada, you will need to register for a Corporate Income Tax account with the Canada Revenue Agency at:

 7. Hire employees

Businesses that hire workers (full-time, part-time, casual or contract) should:

Determine if you need to open a payroll account and make payroll deductions.

Industry guides for starting a business

Explore the guides below to learn what’s involved in building a successful business in a specific sector:

The Province is providing this resource solely for purposes of general guidance with respect to the subject matter involved. As such, this resource is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. 

You should consult with a qualified professional to validate the accuracy and relevancy to your business before making any decisions based on this resource.