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Corporations Canada — Starting a Business - Canada

Corporations Canada — Starting a Business

Last Update: July 22, 2025
Canada
Incorporate your business

At a glance

Eligible Funding
  • No Condition
Timeline
  • Open Date : November 20, 2023
Financing Type
Expert Advice
Eligible Industries
  • All industries
Funds Providers
Unspecified
Program status
Open

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.

Financing terms and conditions

  • Online basic incorporation costs $200 and can be completed within 1 business day.

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.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 150,000
Opening a women’s shelter to provide safe housing and support services
$ 90,000
Launching a mobile health clinic to serve underserved populations
$ 110,000
Creating a tech incubator for youth to foster entrepreneurship
$ 60,000
Developing an eco-friendly clothing line
$ 75,000
Establishing a green roofing business to promote environmental sustainability
$ 45,000
Setting up a community kitchen to address food insecurity

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

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.
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.
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.
4

File Your Application

  • Apply online for incorporation and choose the appropriate online service for your business type.
  • Pay the $200 online filing fee.
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.

Documents and links

Corporations Canada — Starting a Business

Apply to this program

Frequently Asked Questions about the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business Program

Here are answers to the most common questions about the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.

What is the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business?

How much funding can be received?

What is the deadline to apply?

Is the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business a grant, loan, or tax credit?

Who are the financial supporters of the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business?

Who is eligible for the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business program?

Who can I contact for more information about the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business?

Where is the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business available?

Are startups eligible for the Corporations Canada — Starting a Business program?

Apply to this program

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