Entrepreneurs & Startups

Before starting a business in the Town of The Blue Mountains, it's wise to ensure your business plan can be achieved with the utmost success through consultation with the Economic Development Division. Staff are available to help guide and connect you to the strong network of local business resources and support available in the region.

Businesses can be registered or renewed, business names may be searched, and a Master Business Licence may be obtained online, at a self-service kiosk at any Service Ontario location, or by mail.

Before securing a formal business name, it is recommended to conduct a search to ensure the desired name is available. This can be done via online search engine (e.g., Google or Bing). Once a business name has been determined, a formal paid search should be conducted before registering a business.

For more information on registering a business name, visit the province's official website. 

The Town does not require businesses to obtain a municipal business permit or license.

Certain businesses (i.e., restaurants, daycares, etc.) do require permits and licenses in order to operate. BizPaL is a free, interactive tool that identifies the permits, licenses, and inspections that specific businesses may require from the provincial and federal government.

When starting a business, there are many considerations, including municipal By-laws and property zoning. It is highly recommended to contact the Building Department or Planning and Development Services if you are planning to:

• Renovate an existing property (inside or outside);
• Buy a new property (to ensure it is zoned for your purpose);
• Convert a residential property to a business property;
• Run a business at home; or
• Install a sign for the business.

Businesses that operate a food premise, or a personal service setting, are required by law to notify and contact the Grey Bruce Public Health Unit.

Food premises include, but are not limited to:

• Restaurants, cafeterias, and take-outs;
• Daycare, long-term care, retirement homes, homes for special care;
• Mobile premises;
• Catering companies; and
• Retail butcher shops.

For more information on establishing a food premise, view the Grey Bruce Health Services website and application. 

Personal service settings include, but are not limited to:

• Hairdressing and/or barbering;
• Tattooing and body piercing/modification;
• Nail services;
• Electrolysis, waxing and hair removal; and
• Other aesthetic services.

For more information on establishing a personal service setting, view the Grey Bruce Health Services website. 

Having an entrepreneurial mindset can help young people flourish in their own business and/or in the corporate world. Youth entrepreneurs think creatively, are problem solvers, know how to market and sell themselves, and understand what goes into earning revenue and paying expenses. Locally, resources are available to help students and youth learn and develop entrepreneurial skills through programs and mentorship. Programs and resources include:

• Henry Bernick Entrepreneurship Centre
• Futurepreneur
• Starter Company Plus
• Summer Company
• Business Enterprise Centre
• South Georgian Bay Small Business Enterprise Centre