1. Develop a business plan. Need help? Contact Community Futures to connect with experts.
2. Complete your market research. Check our our Investment Opportunity Engine for detailed information.
3. Obtain financial commitment before proceeding with start-up costs.
4. Register your business name with Corporate Registry.
5. Visit Alberta Small Business Resources for additional information.
6. Click on the Licensing section for Red Deer-specific licence and permit information.  
7. Contact Canada Revenue Agency for information on corporate income tax and GST, and to obtain an employer's account number for Unemployment Insurance and Canada Pension Plan deductions.
8. Register your company with the Workers' Compensation Board. 
9. If you employ five or more people, register with the Alberta Health Insurance Plan. 
10. Ensure that you comply with the pertinent labour regulations by contacting the Employment Standards Branch of Alberta Human Services.
11. Contact the Government of Alberta if assistance is required to locate and/or train new employees.
12. Ensure that all health regulations that relate to your business have been investigated. Alberta Health Services website is a good place to start.
13. Obtain appropriate insurance, leases and other operating needs.
14. Ensure that all environmental issues that affect your business have been investigated.

For more information on business start-up and development, or to set up a business visitation with one of our Economic Development Officers, please contact the Land & Economic Development department.