Small Enterprise Entrepreneurship In Canada

SMEs and entrepreneurs make an important contribution to the Canadian economy. SMEs account for 60% of total employment, and Canada performs very well across many measures of small business generation, growth and innovation. However, further increases in productivity in medium-sized firms, an increase in SME exports, a greater business start-up rate and an increased number of high-growth firms could bring substantial benefits for the national economy. This report identifies several areas where new policy approaches could help achieve these objectives. Framework conditions for small business could be improved in business taxation, public procurement, access to financing and the commercialisation of research. New and extended programmes could be introduced in domains including entrepreneurship education, management advice and consultancy, and workforce skills development. A major effort is recommended to prioritise women's entrepreneurship, including by supporting social enterprises, and federal support could be offered to support the exchange of information on best practice SME regulations and programmes among provinces and territories. All this could be brought together and co-ordinated through the umbrella of a national strategy and a lead agency for SME and entrepreneurship policy.

Small and medium sized businesses increase the chances of success for all kinds of individual and collective initiatives and ensure the development and maintenance of an economic and social fabric. This paper defines small and medium sized businesses, and offers a quantity of statistical data concerning the importance of their role in the economy. It discusses the necessary distinctions to be made between the terms entrepreneur and manager, and provides a detailed analysis of the major advantages and problems peculiar to small- and medium-sized businesses in Canada. The purpose of the final portion of the paper is to sensitize the reader concerning what is being done about getting to know these businesses better.

This report identifies several areas where new policy approaches could help achieve these objectives.

The Definitive Guide to Owning and Running a Successful Small Business The Complete Canadian Small Business Guide has been the go-to book for thousands of Canadian entrepreneurs ever since it was first published in 1988. Now in its fourth edition, this essential guide updates you on everything you need to know to understand, manage, and take advantage of the latest changes in technology, law, resources, and best practices of today’s small businesses. Renowned experts in their field, Douglas Gray and Diana Gray provide a complete reference for every question you have and offer street-smart tips that will give your small business a competitive advantage. The Complete Canadian Small Business Guide, Fourth Edition, answers all your questions about starting, operating, and expanding your business, including: Should I buy a business, a franchise, or start from scratch? Where do I get financing, how much do I need, and how do I pay it back? How do I get credit from my suppliers, and when should I extend it to my customers? How do I maximize the value of my lawyer, accountant, banker, and insurance broker? How do I use Internet marketing, SEO and social media to enhance my business? How do I hire the best employees—and keep them? Easy-to-read and fully up-to-date, The Complete Canadian Small Business Guide provides the information you need in virtually any situation. Douglas Gray, LLB, is Canada’s foremost authority on small business. Formerly a practicing lawyer, he is the author of 25 bestselling business and personal finance books. He lives in Vancouver, B.C. Visit www.smallbiz.ca Diana Gray is an experienced business owner and consultant. Her company provides centralized business services to small and medium-sized companies as well as home-based businesses.