Grants and funding are wonderful opportunities to help further stimulate your business. They can also be overwhelming and intimidating. After all, you're an expert in running your business, not grant writing.
In collaboration with the Township of Laurentian Valley and the Town of Petawawa, we've put together this resource to help set you up for success.
What you should have to be ready for grants and funding
1. Register your business with your municipality
Each municipality is different: some require a licence, others have a registration, and some may have nothing. If your municipality has an economic development officer, they are a great first contact. If they do not have an EDO, someone in the planning department is likely the next best contact. In Pembroke, businesses can register for free using the online business registration form.
2. Register your business with the Province of Ontario
There are certain instances where you must register your business with the province, but in general, it is a good idea to do this regardless. By doing this you will receive a 'Master Business Licence (MBL)' which will give you proof of business name registration for financial purposes. An MBL is often required when applying to grants.
The cost is $80 and the registration is valid for five years.
Register your business with the province online.
3. Have a separate business bank account
This can be required for some grants. It is also good to do this as soon as possible, to keep your business and personal finances separate and will help as your business expands.
4. Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Business Number
This is a requirement for some grants. To obtain a CRA Business Number, please visit Business Registration Online.
5. Articles of Incorporation - If incorporated
If you are incorporated, ensure you have this on hand when applying for funding. You should have a certified copy of a resolution of directors and shareholders authorizing you to obtain financing.
6. Ready-to-go projects
Many grants come with short notice and require quotes, mock-ups and plans to be submitted along with the grant. If your business has a dream project or expansion idea, begin collecting information and putting together a plan including drawings, mock-ups, plans, and quotes. Having these on hand will make it much easier to apply for a grant when the time comes.
Where to find grants and funding
- Canada Small Business Financing Program
- City of Pembroke Community Improvement Plan grants
- Enterprise Renfrew County
- Government of Canada Business Benefit Finder
- Government of Ontario funding
- Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation
Application writing fundamentals
Looking for advice on writing and submitting a grant application? Check out this short video of application-writing tips presented by the Northumberland and Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDC).