Welcome to Oyster startupclub Resource Centre

The Oyster Startup Action Workshop helps people act on, test, and (if necessary) adjust their business idea before deciding whether to proceed and scale it. The hands-on, fun, and fast workshop will increase your confidence in your idea before you fully commit to investing in technology, retail- or office space, equipment, staff, or inventory. Armed with the test results you will also build a more convincing case for when you apply for funding or for entrance into one of the numerous and  fabulous programs for aspiring Canadian entrepreneurs listed below (the list is a random sample of resources, there are many more). 

They include free access to articles, blogs, educational materials, and videos. As well, many offer ongoing webinars, short classes and courses, and access to industry experts for minimal fees. 

(Some of the organizations listed reside within British Columbia, but you will find similar organizations located across regions).  

BDC

BDC is the only Canadian Bank devoted exclusively to entrepreneurs. Check out this link to their "Starting a Business, Articles, and Tools" and find for example "The Ultimate Guide to Starting a Business".  

Community Futures

The Community Futures Canada currently operates 267 non-profit offices across Canada and provide small business services to people living in rural and remote communities. Each office delivers small business loans, tools, training, and events for people wanting to start, expand, franchise or sell a business.  Check out their resources.

Futurepreneur Canada

Futurepreneur Canada offers mentoring, expertise, and financing to get your startup off the ground. "If you are between 18-39 and ready to start your business, we are here to help you". Up to $60,000 in financing and resources and mentoring for up to two years.

Government Resources

Numerous Government resources, articles, and checklists, are available for people wanting to start a business. Check out, for example, the link above to find information about starting a business, and resources on planning a business, choosing a business name, registering your business, business support, financing, and free tax support. Of course, your local Chamber of Business is your local support and resource as well. 

HSBC

Like many financial institutions RBC Bank offers many helpful checklists and guidance for people with business ideas. See, for example, their guide "HSBC Fusion for Small Business Owners" and their guide "Start a Business". With HSBC Fusion, you can manage your small business and personal accounts in one place. Get expert insights, financial advice, and business funding. 

Island Savings

Like many financial institutions Island Savings offers helpful checklists and guidance for people with business ideas. Follow the link to their "Business Advice" and STARTING YOUR BUSINESS. Get the advice you need to help start your business and begin its journey of growth. SEE ALL ADVICE. For example, their guide "How do I start a Business in BC"?

Many online learning platforms offers shorter and longer programs in entrepreneurship. Check out, for example, Udemy's "Top Online Startup Courses", Foundr's "Free Online Training for Entrepreneurs in, for example "Finding and Validating a Winning Product Idea" and "Setting your Brand Apart", Coursera's "Best Online Startup Courses and Certificates" their article "Guide to Start-ups", and LinkedIn's "Entrepreneurship Online Training Courses" or join MIT's Bootcamps Community. And numerous great articles, for example, Forbes Magazines "How to start a Business in 11 Steps".

RBC

Like many financial institutions RBC Bank offers many helpful checklists and guidance for people with business ideas. Follow this link to their "Banking for Business Start Up" and get the free Starting a Business Guide. Enjoy Offers to Help You Register Your Business, Get Financing, Find Grants and More. Use Our Resources to Validate Your Business Idea, Create a Business Plan and More". 

Small Business BC (SBCC)

"Grow Your Business — Get independent advice from industry experts about how to start and grow your business. Resources for Entrepreneurs to Start and Grow Successful Businesses". 

Take advantage of SBBC's comprehensive (and often free) set of resources, libraries, articles and videos. Join their frequent expert webinars (startup tips, social media etc.). You can also connect to an industry expert and get tailored advice for a fee. Check, for example, "The Ten Step Guide to Starting a Business".

There are numerous organizations and programs available across all regions to support startups and people with business ideas. Here are a few examples for your inspirations MaRS in Toronto ("Startups - Increase your odds of success") and Innovate in Calgary ("For startups and new ventures, we are an incubator providing education, programs, and funding to support your growth"). 

WE-BC

We-BC is a not-for-profit that has been supporting, propelling, and celebrating women entrepreneurs in BC for nearly three decades. WEBC focuses on financing for women entrepreneurs. Find, for example, their "Starting your own business - How to write an effective business plan".