One-Stop for Businesses

Free resources and assistance for small business owners who are looking to open or expand. 

Helping businesses understand what they need to do and know BEFORE they open, build, or expand:

• Save Time and Money: One location - 1st floor of City Hall (71 Main Street West). Find out your zoning, how long it will take, and how much it's going to cost to set up or expand your business.
• Make Informed Decisions: Understand the timelines, what applications you'll need to fill out, and get feedback on your business plans.
• Get the Right Resources: Access brochures, contacts, check lists, business registration (step-by-step assistance), workshops and seminars, and meet with helpful staff who will take you through the process to move your business forward faster and more efficiently.

One-Stop for Business offers three specific services:

Business Facilitation:

• Step-by-step guidance on how to navigate through the municipal processes from the start to end of your business project (building a new office, restaurant, store etc. or renovating an existing building).
• Understand the requirements and processes and make it easier for business decisions to be made and faster to receive approvals.
• Business Facilitators will work with City staff to find creative solutions and facilitate development and guide businesses through the clearing of Site Plan Approval conditions
• Access information, advice, mediation, and problem solving.

Small Business Assistance (Small Business Enterprise Centre):

• Access to qualified business consultants who will help with the review and development of business and marketing plans, advice on incentives and financing programs, rules and regulations for business.
• Access to professionals program; clients can register to meet one-to-one with a business banker, accountant, lawyer and marketing professional.
• One-stop business resource area; featuring directories, demographics, wireless internet and two client research computers.
• Business registration (Master Business License) assistance for sole proprietorships and partnerships.
• Community service provider for the Canadian Youth Business Foundation (CYBF), Summer Company Program and Self Employment Benefit Program for the City of Hamilton Community Services Department, Employment and Income Support Division.

Business Licensing:

• Understand if your business needs to be licensed.
• Find out what your business needs to become licensed.
• Get your application processed.