We want to see that you have a strong and workable idea, and the best way to illustrate that is with a comprehensive business plan. We can guide you in putting a plan together, along with the financial projections you will need. This includes:

• Market research confirming demand for your product/service
• A monthly cash flow forecast for a minimum of the first 2 years of operation

And for business purchases also include:

• Historic financial statements of the business
• A copy of the proposed purchase agreement

Free related resources

• See all Business Planning Resources, or
• Business Plan Checklist
• A Guide to Resources for Business Planning
• Addressing and Creating a Product Need
• How to Write an Effective Business Plan

Creating Your Business Plan Workbook ($29.95, free shipping)

This comprehensive learning guide takes you through each step of the business planning process, from thinking about starting a business to ticking off your business plan checklist. We’ve designed this resource to help you tackle the questions our Business Advisors hear most.

Learn more about the Creating Your Business Plan Workbook

You don’t need to have owned a business before to meet our criteria, but you need to have the skills to operate and manage a business successfully.

Your business skills may have been gained through work experience, education, volunteer positions or other personal background. In addition to knowledge about the operational aspects of your business and industry, you will also need to have some knowledge of financial management, marketing and sales.

Helpful resources

• See if we’re offering a business skills workshop in your area
• Focused Marketing Workbook
• Financial Understanding Workbook
• Financial Management Workbook

Businesses have a greater probability of success when the owner makes a financial contribution.

When you apply for a loan, you will need to show personal equity investment in your business. Equity can be in the form of cash and other assets that will be used in the business, such as equipment, inventory, etc.

The minimum equity requirement for the youth business loan is 10% of the loan amount, instead of the usual 25%.

Women’s Enterprise Centre will look at your credit history and weigh it against the strength of your business plan.

While your credit history doesn’t need to be stellar, we can’t consider you for a loan if you have an outstanding bankruptcy or judgment.

It’s a good idea for you to find out where you stand with your credit rating before you apply – and we can tell you how in our free phone-in Business Loan Info Session.