In today's economy, one of the hottest career choices is starting your own business. Why?

• The personal freedom in being your own boss;
• The satisfaction in pursuing your own interests, of leaving your own legacy;
• And all the profit is yours to keep!

BUT there are also downsides:

• Long hours, often not just at the start but for the life of the business;
• You are responsible for everything, the good and the bad;
• There is no benefit package, no pay cheque unless you make it happen.

Are you an entrepreneur?

We've collected a number of valuable websites that provide basic tools to help you:

• Assess your personal suitability as an entrepreneur;
• Learn how to write a business plan;
• Seek expert advice;
• Find financing;
• Understand the regulations that govern business; and
• Open your own business.

Industry Canada
Click Starting a Business, then Business Start-up Assistant. Try at least one of the several entrepreneurial self assessment tests provided.

Canadian Youth Business Foundation
The Canadian Youth Business Foundation has a host of resources and links for young people starting their own business. CYBF can provide start-up funds through its awards program.

London Small Business Centre
London Small Business Centre is local, non-profit and open to anyone (including Fanshawe students and grads) looking for information and guidance to develop their business. The SBC Counsellors can advise you about turning a concept into a business plan and on to actual business start-up. Most services are free

Profit Guide
Profit Guide is a monthly, for-profit business magazine containing information on marketplace trends, opportunities and advice for new small businesses.

Canada Ontario Business Service Centre
Canada Ontario Business Service Centre, a comprehensive government site providing web based programs to develop your business idea, start a new venture or improve an existing small business.

London Public Library
London Public Library has several web-based as well as hard-copy resources about small business planning and market research. Under My Life choose "Starting and Running a Business."