Learning how to start a business in BC is one of the most important steps you can take toward financial independence and doing meaningful work on your own terms. Whether you’re opening a storefront, launching a service-based business, or incorporating a company, the process requires clarity and direction. This guide is built for real British Columbians just like you, offering step-by-step advice, local insight, and legally accurate information to help you start strong and grow with confidence. From choosing the right business structure to understanding permits, taxes, and business registration costs, every section of this guide is designed to make the journey easier. You’ll find helpful tools, tips, and government resources so you can avoid any potential mistakes and move forward with ease of mind.
Start With an Idea
Every business begins with a spark-a product you’ve dreamed about selling, a service you know people need, or a gap in the local market that only you can fill. The idea is where it all begins, but that idea needs validation before it can turn into a sustainable business.
Start by answering a few important questions:
- What problem am I solving?
- Who will pay for the solution?
- Am I solving any needs?
- What makes this idea better than others already?
In British Columbia, market demand varies from large urban centers in Vancouver and Victoria to smaller towns and remote regions. It’s crucial to understand the potential customer base and how your solution fits into their lives.
Take time to do informal research and talk to potential customers if you have to, browse forums, check reviews of competitors and understand existing options.
Also, think about scalability. Are you confident enough that this idea will grow? Jot everything down. Map it out. Refine it all based on the feedback you get. The stronger the idea, the smoother your next steps will become.
Define What Makes You Different
You might have a great idea, but so do a thousand others. It’s the reality of business nowadays. But dont be discouraged because finding what sets you apart in BC’s growing marketplace will make you succeed. A Unique Selling Point (USP). This is what defines your value, your positioning and your voice in a competitive market space.
Your USP answers one key question: Why should someone choose your business over others?
Here’s how to find it:
- Compare yourself to local competitors. Are they all generic, or is there a gap you can fill?
- Tap into your personal story. Why are you the right person to launch this?
- Look at underserved communities. Could you offer something culturally specific, eco-friendly, or more affordable?
Align Your Business With Your Values
British Columbians care deeply about sustainability, community and ethics. In Fact, research shows that over 70% of Canadian consumers prefer to support businesses that align with their personal values.
Your values aren’t just feel-good statements. They define how you operate, who you hire, what partnerships you pursue, and how you treat customers.
To define your business values:
- Write down 3-5 values that matter most to you.
- Make sure they’re actionable. “Transparency” means showing pricing clearly, and “Sustainability” means sourcing responsibly.
- Don’t try to be everything to everyone. Be specific and bold.
Once you know your values, live them. Customers can smell inauthentic branding from miles away. But if you stay consistent online, in-store, and in every customer interaction, your values will set you apart in the BC market like no other.
Choosing the Right Business Name in BC
Let’s be real: naming, getting the right business name, can be a pain. Why? Because it’s like naming a child, and getting your wife’s approval, only your child also needs some way to rank on Google, pass legal checks, and fit on a business card!
Here’s how to get it right in BC:
Step 1: Brainstorm Creatively
- Use metaphors, cultural references, or words in other languages (respectfully).
- Don’t limit yourself to “literal” names. Think: Lululumon, Aritzia, Shopify.
Step 2: Check Name Availabilty
- Use our BC Name Request tool to submit a BC Name Approval request. Need Help? Check out our Name Approval guide!
- Have 2-3 backup names in case your first choice is rejected.
Step 3: Test it
- Say it out loud. Show it to friends. See how it feels over time. If it sounds clunky or forgettable, go back to the drawing board.
This name will follow your business everywhere. Take the time now to make sure it’s on me you’re proud of and legally able to use.
Create a Business Plan You Will Actually Use
You don’t need a 100-page MBA thesis. You do need a clear, useful business plan that lays out your goals, numbers, and how you’re going to start your business in BC.
A strong business plan helps with:
- Getting future financing
- Attracting investors or partners
- Making smarter decisions
What to include:
- Executive summary – A short overview of what your business does and why it matters.
- Business description – What you sell, your structure, and how you operate.
- Market Research – Your target customers, competitors and pricing.
- Operations Plan – Location, staffing, hours, suppliers.
- Marketing Plan – How you’ll reach and retain customers.
- Financial Plan – Costs, Sales projections, profit forecasts.
Need help writing one? Use this Business Plan Guide from the Government of BC, or call us for advice or help.
Choosing What Business Type Works for You
Before you register anything, you need to choose the right business structure. This decision affects your taxes, liability and how much paperwork you’ll deal with.
Here are your options in British Columbia:
Sole Proprietorship
- You’re the ONLY owner in a Sole Proprietorship.
- Easiest and cheapest to set up.
- You’re personally responsible for debts and liability.
Partnerships
- Shared ownership between two or more people.
- Still relatively easy to register.
- Partners are personally liable unless it’s a limited liability partnership (LLP).
Corporation
- Your business becomes a separate legal entity.
- Offers limited liability protection.
- Has more tax planning and can seem more credible to investors and banks.
- You need to go through the BC incorporation process.
Most entrepreneurs looking for long-term growth and protection choose to incorporate in BC. It’s more paperwork, but it shields your personal assets and opens the door to more funding opportunities.
Not sure which one fits your goals? We totally get it! A professional from Business Registration Center BC can help you decide what works best based on your business idea, size, risk level and tax needs.
Once your name is approved and you’ve picked a business structure, it’s time to make it official.
Apply for Licenses, Permits & Tax Numbers
Registering your business isn’t the end of the paperwork. You’ll likely need additional licences and permits depending on your location and industry.
Here’s what you need to look into:
Business Licence
- Issued by your local municipality (e.g., Vancouver, Surrey, Kelowna).
- Required even if you operate from home or online.
- Must be renewed yearly.
Food, Health, or Liquor Permits
- If you’re selling food or alcohol or offering personal service (like salons), you’ll need provincial health permits.
Use BizPal
- BizPal is a helpful tool that shows what licenses/permits you’ll need based on your city and business type.
CRA Business Number
- Get a Business Number (BN) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
- Required For: GST/HST, Payroll Deductions, Import/Export
Tip: If your revenue exceeds $30,000/year, you’re legally required to register and charge GST.
Build Your Supporting Team
You don’t need to (and shouldn’t) do this alone. Assembling a trusted support team early can save you time, stress, and costly mistakes. At a minimum, consider working with an accountant or bookkeeper to handle tax planning, GST/PST filings, and payroll. A legal advisor can ensure your incorporation is solid, your contracts are airtight, and your business stays compliant with local regulations. If you’re aiming for growth or funding, a business consultant or advisor can help you fine-tune your strategy and prepare for investor conversations.
This kind of expert support isn’t just for big companies—small startups benefit from it even more, especially when trying to build credibility with banks or navigate legal and financial decisions.
Find the Right Location (or Set up From Home)
Choosing where to run your business from can shape everything, from your overhead costs to your customer experience.
Consider these location options:
- Retail or commercial spaces
- Home-Based Business
- Coworking or Shared Offices
- Shipping and Storage Needs considerations
Where you start in the beginning doesn’t have to be where you finish, but choose smart now to avoid relocation headaches later.
If you need a business address, BRC BC offers a registered office address in British Columbia and mail screening services.
Explore Business Financing Options in BC
Starting a business in BC requires capital—and unless you’re fully self-funded, you’ll need to explore your financing options early on. Whether you’re covering lease costs, buying inventory, or funding a marketing push, having access to startup capital is essential.
Here are the four main ways BC entrepreneurs finance their businesses:
1. Bootstrapping (Self-Funding)
- You use personal savings or income.
- Keeps ownership in your hands, but limits scale.
- Common for freelancers, consultants, and online startups.
2. Loans
- Apply through traditional banks or credit unions.
- Explore the Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP).
- You’ll usually need a solid business plan and collateral.
3. Grants and Government Programs
- BC and federal governments offer small business grants.
- Programs exist for:
- Youth entrepreneurs
- Women in business
- Indigenous-owned businesses
- Green and tech startups
Check out Innovations Canada for grants and funding opportunities.
4. Investors
Angel investors or venture capitalists may invest for equity.
Expect them to ask for clear financial forecasts and a strong business plan.
💡 Pro Tip: Always read the fine print. Giving up equity may seem tempting, but it also means giving up some control.
Start Promoting Your Business Online and Brick & Mortar Style
Once your foundation is in place, it’s time to let the world know you exist. In BC’s competitive market, marketing can be your superpower, especially if you do it intentionally from day one.
Your marketing options are:
Digital Marketing
- Build a clean website
- Use Google Business Profile to rank locally in BC.
- Launch your social media accounts and focus on where your audience is.
Content Marketing
- Start a blog or create helpful videos to educate your customers.
- Answer Common questions related to your product or services.
Traditional Marketing and Brick & Mortar Style
- Flyers, print ads, local radio, and signage still work today, especially in smaller communities.
Event and Networking
- Attend BC business expos or Chamber of Commerce events.
- Offer a free workshop or info session related to your service.
Marketing is not a once size fits all situation. Choose a few key tactics, track your results and adjust based on what brings you real-time results.
How Much Does it Cost to Start a Business in BC?
Let’s talk numbers. Here’s a breakdown of Costs with BRC BC for different types of registrations in British Columbia and Business Name Approval:
| Registration Type | BRC BC Service Fees: |
|---|---|
| Business Name Approval | Agency Fee $49.00 + Government Fees |
| Sole Proprietorship Registration | Agency Fee $75.00 + Government Fee |
| BC Incorporation | Agency Fee $49.00 + Government & Other Fees |
| General Partnership Registration | Agency Fee $49.00 + Government Fee |
| Limited Partnerships (LP) | Agency Fee $149.00 + Government Fee |
| Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) | Agency Fee $199.00 + Government Fee |
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Even smart entrepreneurs slip up during the early stages. Here are the biggest missteps we see (and how to avoid them):
- Skipping the registration or licensing: Think you’re too small to register? Think again. Operating without the proper business licence in your city can lead to fines.
- Not understanding taxes: If you’re earning more than $30,00 annually, you must register for GST. Many businesses miss this and face CRA penalties.
- Not doing enough market research: Don’t assume people will love your product just because you do. Talk to potential customers. Learn their habits.
- Ignoring Zoning Rules in BC: Running a business from home? Check with your municipality to ensure it’s legal and compliant.
Myths vs Facts: Starting a Business in BC
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| “If I work from home, I don’t need to register.” | Most BC cities still require a home-based business licence. |
| “I don’t need a business number unless I hire staff.” | You need a CRA BN for GST, even as a solo entrepreneur. |
| “Incorporation is only for big companies.” | Even solo founders can benefit from limited liability and tax advantages. |
| “Marketing can wait until I’m up and running.” | Launching with zero visibility means launching to no one. Start early. |
| “Grants are impossible to get.” | BC and Canada offer millions in small business funding each year—many go unclaimed. |
This guide is written with real-world business experience, backed by trusted sources like the Government of BC and CRA, plus professional insight from BRC BC’s corporate registry staff. We’ve helped thousands of Canadians incorporate or register a business since 2002.
You're Ready! Here's What to Do Next
Starting a business in BC is a major achievement, and while it might feel like a mountain of paperwork and decisions right now, each step gets you closer to owning your future.
Let’s recap your next steps:
Finalize and validate your idea.
Choose a name and check its availability.
Select the right business structure.
Register your business with BC Registries.
Get your business licence and tax numbers.
Set up finances and legal protections.
Secure funding if needed.
Launch your marketing plan and grow!
Need help navigating your BC incorporation or registration process? That’s exactly what we’re here for at Business Registration Centre BC (BRC BC)
You’ve got this, and we’ve got your back!
FAQs: What New BC Business Owners Ask Most
1. What’s the first legal step to starting a business in BC?
The first step is to choose your business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship or corporation) and register your business with BC Registries and Online Services.
2. How much does it cost to register a business in BC with BRC BC?
Registration fees with BRC BC range from $75.00 for a sole proprietorship to $49.00 for incorporating a company in BC.
3. Do I need a business licence for an online or home-based business in BC?
Yes. Most BC municipalities require all businesses, including online or home-based ones, to have a valid business licence.
4. How do I register for GST/HST and get a Business Number?
You can register for a CRA Business Number (BN) and GST/HST online at the CRA website
or by phone.
5. Should I incorporate my business in BC or federally?
Incorporate in BC if you plan to operate mostly within the province. Choose federal incorporation if you plan to expand across Canada or want nationwide name protection.