Business Link – Small Business Advice and Coaching ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Small business owners (existing or prospective) - Sole proprietors - Partnerships - Small corporations - Businesses in startup phase or growth stage - Entrepreneurs seeking to establish or expand operations in Canada - Businesses of any industry sector ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant Type: Non-repayable advisory service (not a direct cash grant) - Cost to Business: Free or subsidized consulting services - Matching Requirements: None specified - Repayability: Not applicable—services are provided at no or reduced cost - Budget: Varies by province/territory and service provider - Scope: One-on-one personalized coaching and advice sessions ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses The program does not fund direct business expenses. Instead, it provides expert guidance on: - Financing & Capital: Advice on funding options, loan applications, investment strategies - Business Registration & Licensing: Regulatory compliance, permits, incorporation guidance - Marketing & Sales: Go-to-market strategies, brand development, customer acquisition - Business Planning: Strategic planning, feasibility studies, operational setup - General Business Operations: Financial management, staffing, growth planning - Industry-Specific Questions: Tailored advice for your sector ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Access Method: Contact local Business Link office or provincial/territorial small business support agency - Eligibility Verification: Basic business information and eligibility screening required - Session Limitations: Typically limited number of free or subsidized sessions; additional sessions may have fees - Confidentiality: Advice is confidential; coach-client relationship applies - No Direct Funding: This program provides advisory services only—not capital or operational grants - Ongoing Support: Available for both startup and established businesses - Timeline: Services available year-round; scheduling depends on advisor availability - Geographic Coverage: Available across most Canadian provinces and territories through local offices