Starting Your Own Business
Saskatchewan has a long history of people starting their own businesses. Some choose to buy an existing business and others start new. Also, in certain occupations, people are often self-employed. For example, many veterinarians, dentists, lawyers, optometrists, and physicians operate their practices as businesses. Tradespeople, such as carpenters or electricians, may also go into business for themselves. Other business owners operate restaurants, sell goods, or provide special services.
1. Entrepreneurship and the SINP
If you are considering immigrating through the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), there are opportunities for you as an entrepreneur.
2. Getting Help Starting Your Business
These free resources will provide you with information on starting your own business.
- The Business Development Bank's self-assessment tool can be helpful to measure your entrepreneurial potential and see if starting your own business is the right fit for you.
- The Business Development Bank of Canada helps people with establishing and financing their business.
- The Job Bank offers information on things to consider before starting a business.
- Resources for Starting a Business include links to resources, tools, and tips on how to start, manage, and grow your business.
- Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan assists women considering starting a business or operating an existing business by providing a variety of programs and services.
3. Professional Advice
If you are planning on purchasing a company, you should have an accountant or certified business valuator review the financial statements. It is also normal practice to have your own real estate agent, whether you are buying or selling a business. A commercial lawyer, investment adviser and banker are other professionals you may want to consider. They will be interested in your success and give you the best chance of being successful in your business.
There are also many public agencies that provide free services to entrepreneurs. See Business Advisory Services for a list of contacts.
If you choose to start or buy a business that is not stated in your Business Performance Agreement (BPA), please contact the SINP Entrepreneur Program to renegotiate the terms of your agreement. You will be asked to provide details on your proposed business, including the names and contact information for your professional business service providers.
4. Business Opportunities
The young and growing population of First Nations and Métis people in Saskatchewan is one of the province's greatest assets in new entrepreneurship and business opportunities. The SINP Entrepreneur category provides an opportunity to assist First Nations and Métis communities interested in partnership economic development ventures. The partnering of newcomers with unique skills and innovative business ideas with First Nations and Métis communities seeking opportunities to maintain or expand economic opportunities is the goal.
Visit the Starting a Business page for more information.