Help for small businesses and entrepreneurs

Last updated on July 31, 2024

Governments and organizations like Small Business BC can help you start, manage and grow a successful small business in British Columbia.

On this page


Guidance and advice

Talk to Small Business BC

Get expert and tailored small business advice from a Small Business BC advisor. Advisory services are available in:

  • Business registration
  • Business planning
  • Market research
  • Import and export
  • Accounting
  • Business brokering
  • Legal
  • Technology operations

Advisors are available 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday to Wednesday and Friday, and 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Thursday.

Call: 1-800-667-2272 Email: askus@smallbusinessbc.ca


Business registration

Talk to BC Registries and Online Services

Contact BC Registries and Online Services with questions about:

  • Choosing a business type
  • Naming your business
  • Registering your business

BC Registries and Online Services does not provide business or legal advice. The helpdesk is available 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday.

Call: 1-877-370-1033 Email: BCRegistries@gov.bc.ca


Business permits and licences

Talk to your local government

The provincial government does not issue business licences.

To learn more about business licences, mobile business licences and other requirements, talk to your local government.

Find contact information


Search BizPaL

Find the permits and licences you may need with BizPaL. Enter your business location and industry to display a list of possible requirements to consider.

Find permits and licences


Taxes

Talk to the PST Branch

Talk to the PST Branch for small business information on the Provincial Sales Tax (PST).

Advisors are available 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Monday to Friday.

Call: 1-877-388-4440 Call: 250-410-0373 Email: CTBTaxQuestions@gov.bc.ca


Talk to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

Contact the CRA with federal tax questions, including topics about:

  • Income tax
  • Goods and Services Tax (GST)
  • Payroll
  • Business numbers

Contact the CRA Visit the CRA website