Ontario » Banking & Financing

Going penniless: How will this impact your business?

The 2012 federal budget announced that Canada will stop producing the Penny in the fall of 2012, and pennies will gradually be withdrawn from circulation. We can help you understand how these changes will affect your business.

New Chase Paymentech payment processing contracts for CFIB members

With the renewal of our Chase Paymentech Privilege Program CFIB members will be receiving new contracts in order to take advantage of greater savings. Find out more here.

$80 Million available to businesses wanting to expand through technology

The federal government has announced a pilot project, the Digital Technology Adoption Pilot Program, aimed at helping SMEs achieve increased productivity. Are you interested in being one of the companies chosen?

Government programs for small business

The Ontario government has a comprehensive list of programs for business to take advantage of. It is prudent to confirm the program listed is still active.

Private sector financing

Private sector lenders and investors provide financing in order to earn a return on their money. Canada Business has some pointers on it.

Bank or Financial Institute Complaint Protocol

Are you having a dispute with your bank or financial institution? Follow these simple instructions if you are not satisfied with the initial results.

Government grants: how to get money for your business

Government grants and contributions are very few and far between. If they are available they are very specific to geographical areas, sector, etc. It is rare that an independent business qualifies. Check what is out there.

Reduce your costs: encourage your customers to pay with cash, cheque or Interac

Accepting a customer’s credit card means paying your credit card processor a fee about 1.5 to 3.0 per cent of the purchase. Fees are even higher for premium credit cards. If it’s suitable for your business, encourage customers to pay with cash, cheque or Interac to reduce your costs. We have posters you can place by your cash register.

Send and receive cheques where no strike can ever prevent delivery

One of the biggest complaints our members had in the most recent postal strike was their inability to either receive cheques from customers or send cheques to suppliers. One service making a difference is Interac’s e-Transfer service. This service makes the problem go away not only now, but forever!

Alert: Beware of credit card processing offers too good to be true

One of the most important provisions of the Code of Conduct for the Credit and Debit Card Industry was a provision to allow firms to exit their electronic payment processing contracts with ACQUIRERS or RESELLERS without penalty within 90 days of an unscheduled rate change or the introduction of a new fee. Though the Code contains many more measures to protect your business you must still remain vigilant.

How to get a better deal at the bank

Approaching a bank for the first time can be intimidating. Remember that you are the customer and the bank is there to serve your business. Our tips will help you get the best from your financial institution.