Want to start your business?

Let us guide you!

Women's Enterprise Centre has been working with BC women since 1995, supporting business ventures from the time inspiration strikes, until your dream is realized. We can help you decide if business ownership is right for you, show you where to begin, and counsel you through the process of getting started. Our resources, tools and events are designed to help you succeed.

Don't miss our next Starting Your Business Info Session. Call in from anywhere in BC! More

Where do you start?

First, take our self-assessment quiz to help you decide if you are ready to take the plunge.

The next thing you can do to prepare is read our free resource guide designed for B.C. women, called Starting Your Business. You can also visit our Business Planning section for some great start-up information.

It is critical that you brush up on your business skills to prepare for the challenges of running your business. We offer convenient business skills training to you no matter where in B.C. you live.

If there is a gap between what you can invest personally and the financial resources you need to run the business, you can talk to us about financing options, including our unique start-up lending program.

So what is a good business idea?

Once you are confident that you are ready to get started, your next step is to determine if you can translate your idea into a successful business venture. A good idea could be:

• An invention, new product or service, or solution to an everyday problem
• A niche in the market that you can fill
• A business related to the work you do already
• Turning your interest or hobby into a business
• Buying an existing business

Our expert advisors can provide you with feedback on your idea and show you how to conduct market research. This will determine whether your idea can be translated into a viable business and if it can, you are ready to develop a business plan.

Writing an effective business plan

Writing a business plan takes some work, but it is essential to making your entrepreneurial experience a positive one. Our Business Advisors will review and assist you with your business plan, no matter what stage you're at. A business plan will help you determine:

• if your idea is profitable
• how much it will cost to get your business off the ground
• what you will potentially earn
• and how much you will need to pay yourself and all your business costs

Contact us to arrange for complimentary advice to start your new business. Our Business Advisors will be happy to assist you.