Thinking of setting up your own business? We provide assistance to entrepreneurs who are thinking of starting a business or have recently done so.

We recognize the importance of small businesses to a healthy economy. Over 70% of our business base is comprised of small businesses, and we are committed to providing the support needed in order for your business to succeed.

 Economic Development & Strategic Project Services

Business Development & Marketing

  • New business start-ups (planning, registration, licensing etc.)
  • Grand Opening Ceremonies (refer to resource list below for the request form).
  • Expansion and retention of existing businesses
  • Corporate engagement
  • Business data
  • Social media marketing and promotions
  • New investment and developments

Strategic Projects

  • Employment lands
  • City Centre vision
  • Toronto East Aerotropolis
  • Durham Live entertainment hub
  • Kingston Road re-development
 Starting a New Business

The City issues a variety of licences to regulate activities and ensure a safe and healthy community. View the type of Business Licenses available, along with applications and fees. See our Business Costs page for tax and utility rates.

 Resources 

  • Grand Opening and Milestone Events - Red Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: Pickering Economic Development & Strategic Projects Department welcomes new businesses and support existing businesses with expansions. Our Grand Opening and Milestone Events - Red Ribbon Cutting Ceremony program is an opportunity to celebrate you and your business. We will coordinate for the Mayor and Councillors’ presence and will extend invitations to local stakeholders.  Please use the online form to submit details of your event ceremony. 
  • Region of Durham: Business Resources
  • Government of Ontario: Business Services
  • Canada Business Network: Starting a Business 
  • Land Registry Offices: locations where you can register and search official private property records using Ontario's land registration system
  • BizPaL Business Permits and Licences: An online, one-stop service for entrepreneurs that conducts searches for all potential permits and licences required according to your proposed business
  • Business Advisory Centre Durham: Whether you are looking to start your own business or grow your business, the Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) can provide you with the roadmap, guidance, tools and resources to make it happen. Their services to support small business include:
    • Business Advisory Services (free for Durham Region)
    • Business Training
    • Mentoring & Workshops
    • Entrepreneurship Funding Programs
    • Networking Opportunities