Start a Local Business Networking Group

Local business owners and self-employed people, such as tradespeople, accountants, realtors, photographers and shop owners, who want steady word-of-mouth leads.

Monthly or annual membership fees, sometimes with a one-time joining fee or paid guest and sponsor spots. Revenue grows with the number of members and groups.

• Friendly and good at introducing people
• Organized and reliable with a regular schedule
• Comfortable selling the benefits of membership

• Groups take time to build trust, so expect a slow start and some turnover in members
• Check whether your municipality requires a business licence, and register your business name with your province
• Consider liability insurance, especially if you hold events in rented venues, and check what the venue requires
• Collect GST/HST if your revenue passes the small supplier threshold, so check with the CRA
• Keep clear rules on referrals and refunds so members know what they are paying for

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $300 to $2,500, depending on venue hire, marketing, any insurance and the materials you need for meetings. Check venue costs and requirements before you set your membership fee.

Check whether your municipality requires a business licence, and register your business name with your province. Consider liability insurance, especially for rented venues, and check what the venue requires. Check with the CRA about GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $300 to $3,000, depending on member numbers and fees. Plan on at least about 6 hours a week. Groups take time to build trust, so expect a slow start and some turnover.