Starting a Business

In Swift Current & District

Saskatchewan's Best Business Environment

 

We’re open for business in some of the world’s most exciting sectors – renewable energy, natural resources, agri-business, and other emerging industries. 

Learn more at growwithswiftcurrent.ca

Starting your own business can be an exciting and rewarding experience. It can offer numerous advantages such as being your own boss, setting your own schedule and making a living doing something you enjoy. But, becoming a successful entrepreneur requires thorough planning, creativity and hard work. 

Preparing to starting a new business is as invigorating as it is challenging. From assessing your readiness to be an entrepreneur to launching your business and everything in between, Swift Current & District Chamber of Commerce has the resources to help position you and your business for success.

Small Business Start-up Checklist

Starting a business is a journey that takes thought, planning, and effort. There are many steps to consider. If you think becoming a business owner is right for you, this checklist can help you get started.

Licensing & Permitting

Every business operating in Swift Current & District, regardless of the industry-type and location, should do the following:

Research & Register Business Name

Before you spend time and money on your business license, you should make sure that the business name you propose to operate under is not already in use in the province or country that you propose to conduct business. This is particularly true if you will be operating under an assumed business name (or fictitious name, trade name, or DBA name, short for “doing business as”). In Saskatchewan you can research your business name at the Information Services Corporation Office.

Comply with laws and regulations

In addition to a business license, all businesses must also comply with any and all other laws and regulations, including but not limited to zoning, fire, building standards, environmental health and more.

Before you start your business, sign a lease, buy property or purchase a sign for your business, make sure you do your research!

Apply for Business License

Anyone doing business in the City of Swift Current, whether home-based or at another location; whether located inside the City of Swift Current or outside the City but conducting business within the City; whether it is a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation; full-time or part-time; regardless of size, unless the business is exempted by law, is required to have a business license to lawfully operate their business.

Zoning approval is required to operate a business in Swift Current and to obtain a Swift Current business license. Businesses that are exempt from local business license requirements by provincial or federal law must still contact Zoning to receive approval to operate their business. For access to current zoning information, see the City of Swift Current’s website or the R.M. of Swift Current & District No.137. The Swift Current  Zoning Department can be reached at 306-778-2740 or in person at the City of Swift Current located at 177 1st Ave NE, Swift Current, SK.

All businesses operating from commercial property in the Swift Current city limits must receive and pass a fire prevention inspection. Contact the Swift Current Fire Department at 306-778-2760 to schedule an inspection.

Register Your Alarm System

Ensure you have an electronic burglar alarm system installed and that you or your insurance agent has registered the system with the proper authorities.

Obtain Sign Permit

Save your business time and money! Contact the City of Swift Current BEFORE you purchase, install or make modifications to your business sign to make sure that you are in compliance with the sign bylaws. A permit is required for all signs in Swift Current. Sign permits are issued by the Zoning Code Enforcement office located at the City of Swift Current, 177 1st Ave NE. Before applying for a sign permit you should confirm that your business location meets all zoning and land use requirements.

Do you have the characteristics and skills commonly associated with successful entrepreneurs?

Persuasive

You may have the best idea ever, but if you cannot persuade customers, employees, and potential lenders or partners, you may find entrepreneurship to be challenging. If you enjoy public speaking, engage new people with ease, and find you make compelling arguments grounded in facts, it’s likely you’re poised to make your idea succeed.

Supported by others

It's important to have a strong support system in place before starting a business. You will have to make many important decisions, especially in the first months of opening your business. If you do not have a support network, consider finding a business mentor - someone who is experienced, successful and willing to provide advice and guidance.

Creative

Are you able to think of new ideas? Can you imagine new ways to solve problems? Entrepreneurs must be able to think creatively. If you have insights on how to take advantage of new opportunities, entrepreneurship may be a good fit.

Able to negotiate

As a small business owner, you will need to negotiate everything from leases to contract terms to rates. Polished negotiation skills will help you save money and keep your business running smoothly.

Comfortable with taking risks

Being your own boss also means you’re the one making tough decisions. If you struggle with the uncertainty, then entrepreneurship may not be the best fit for you. If you enjoy the thrill of taking calculated risks, entrepreneurship is for you.

Independent

Entrepreneurs have to make a lot of decisions on their own. If you find you can trust your instincts — and you’re not afraid of rejection every now and then — you could be on your way to being an entrepreneur.