Helping Entrepreneurs Start, Grow and Scale Since 1999

The Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) is Durham Region’s trusted resource for entrepreneurs, startups, small businesses, and business owners looking to start, grow, buy, sell or scale a successful business.

As part of Invest Durham at The Regional Municipality of Durham, BACD provides practical, expert business support through advisory services, training, funding programs, networking opportunities, and entrepreneurial ecosystem connections.

Since 1999, we have helped thousands of entrepreneurs turn ideas into businesses, build stronger foundations, access funding, increase sales, create jobs, and contribute to Durham Region’s economic growth. Our team combines business expertise with real-world entrepreneurial experience. We understand the challenges of running a business because we have built and operated businesses ourselves.

Whether you’re exploring a business idea, launching a startup, growing an existing company, or planning your next stage of expansion, we’re here to help.

We are one of over 50 Small Business Centre locations (Ontario Small Business Advisory Centres) in Ontario and we strive to inspire entrepreneurs to build successful businesses in Durham Region!

Our services to support you:

Business Advisory Services (free for Durham Region)
Receive personalized guidance from experienced business advisors on:
- Business planning
- Market research and validation
- Marketing and sales strategies
- Financial planning and cash flow
- Business structure and registration
- Government programs and funding
- Operations and growth planning
- Succession and business transition planning
Business Training and Education
Each year we deliver more than 120 workshops, webinars, networking events, and learning opportunities designed to build entrepreneur skills and confidence.
Topics include:
- Business planning
- Marketing and social media
- Artificial intelligence and automation
- Financial management
- E-commerce
- Business growth strategies
- Leadership and mindset
- Sales and customer acquisition
Entrepreneurship Training and Funding Programs
BACD administers and supports entrepreneurship programs that help people launch and grow businesses, including:
- Starter Company Plus
- Summer Company
- Specialty entrepreneurship initiatives
- The Sales Blueprint, Smart Start and Growth Journey
Networking Opportunities
Entrepreneurs don’t succeed alone. We connect business owners with:
- Industry experts
- Mentors
- Funding partners
- Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade
- Economic development organizations
- Professional service providers
- Government resources
- Business networks across Durham Region and Ontario

VISION

Every entrepreneur we serve achieves business success

MISSION

To inspire people to build successful businesses

VALUES

Fostering a continuous learning culture Serving with integrity and professionalism Strength through partnerships and collaboration Inspiring innovation and driving change Success through empowerment