Open
Last Update: March 4, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : November 20, 2023
Location
Canada
Overview
If you are starting a business, learn about the benefits related to incorporation, the steps to federally incorporate your business and how to name your business.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Reduce environmental footprint
- Access new markets
- Launch or market a product/service
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : November 20, 2023
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- Non-profit
- Public or Parapublic institution
- Non-financial cooperative
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Startups
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Economic, Social and Community Development
- Business Associations
- Not Elsewhere Classified
Target groups
- Business owners / entrepreneurs
- Nonprofits / charities
Revenue structures
- All structures
Scope
- National
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Federal incorporation of a new business entity under the Canada Business Corporations Act.
- Establishment of a not-for-profit corporation at the federal level.
- Creation of a federally incorporated cooperative.
- Formation of a federal board of trade.
Official resources
Selection criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. Here is a summary and the criteria:
- Submission of complete and accurate information
- Compliance with legal requirements
- Payment of applicable fees
- Meeting all relevant eligibility criteria
How to apply
Here are the steps to apply for incorporating a business under the Canada Business Corporations Act:
- Step 1: Choose a Business Structure Decide on the type of business entity you want to incorporate, such as a regular corporation, cooperative, or not-for-profit organization.
- Step 2: Name Your Corporation Consult the guide on naming federal corporations to ensure compliance with naming rules.
- Ensure the business name is unique and suitable for the type of business.
- Step 3: Prepare Necessary Documents Complete the required forms, which may include articles of incorporation and other relevant documents.
- Gather any additional information required to complete your application.
- Step 4: File Your Application Apply online for incorporation and choose the appropriate online service for your business type.
- Pay the $200 online filing fee.
- Step 5: Receive Confirmation Receive confirmation of your filed application, typically within 1 business day for online applications.
- Once approved, obtain your certificate of incorporation.
Additional information
- Online basic incorporation is available for $200 and can be completed within one business day.
- Guides are provided for naming corporations and understanding requirements under federal acts.
- Applicants can order corporate documents or certificates of compliance/existence once incorporated.
- Attention is given to integrity and reliability of public corporate information.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business Program
What is the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business?
If you are starting a business, learn about the benefits related to incorporation, the steps to federally incorporate your business and how to name your business.
Who is eligible for the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business program?
To be eligible for the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business program, you must:
The business must be federally incorporable under the Canada Business Corporations Act, Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act, or Canada Cooperatives Act.
The applicant must complete the necessary steps for incorporation, including naming the corporation and filing required documents online.
What expenses are eligible under Corporations Canada — Starting a Business?
Federal incorporation of a new business entity under the Canada Business Corporations Act.
Establishment of a not-for-profit corporation at the federal level.
Creation of a federally incorporated cooperative.
Formation of a federal board of trade.
Where is the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business available?
The Corporations Canada — Starting a Business program is available across Canada.
Is the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Corporations Canada — Starting a Business is a Expert Advice
Who are the financial supporters of the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business?
Corporations Canada — Starting a Business is funded by Government of Canada