Doing Business

Ontario, which is one of Canada’s most prosperous provinces, expects to remain one of the fastest-growing regions in the advanced industrial world.

We have a diverse economy, with extensive manufacturing, financial and business services. Ontario makes up 40 per cent of Canada’s total economic output and more than half of the country’s manufacturing shipments.

In recent years there has been a big shift towards producing exports, especially in areas such as information technology, and the automotive and chemical industries.

This section explains how you can become part of Ontario’s exciting business sector, by applying as a business immigrant. Find out about the application process, and get the help you need to become a successful investor or entrepreneur.

Important Links You Will Find in This Section

Starting a new business in Ontario has information about registering or incorporating a business, financing, Ontario business laws and taxes, importing/exporting, closing a business and more.

Also the Ontario Business Program Guide is your resource for Ontario government programs for small and medium-sized businesses.

General application information outlines the terms for applying as a business immigrant and the conditions for maintaining your status once you arrive. Also learn about how to prepare to come to Ontario as a business immigrant.

Bringing Skilled Immigrants to Ontario: Ontario employers can nominate key individuals with critical skills and expertise for work permits and permanent residence in Canada, through Opportunities Ontario: Provincial Nominee Program (Opportunities Ontario). This is helpful to employers who are having difficulty finding the skilled workers they need.

If you are looking for Job Market information see our Work section.

See the Ontario Government’s Community Profiles for economic development information in Ontario’s cities.