BACD helps you... Plan.Launch.Grow.

Whether You’re Starting, Growing, Buying, or Selling a Business, We’re Here to Help

Every business journey looks different. You might be exploring a new business idea, building momentum in an existing company, planning your next stage of growth, buying a business, or preparing for a future transition. Wherever you are, the Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) is here to help.

BACD is funded in partnership by the Region of Durham and the Province of Ontario and we are part of the Ontario Small Business Advisory Centre Network.

For more than 25 years, we’ve supported entrepreneurs across Durham Region with practical advice, expert guidance, training, and programs that help turn ideas into action. From business planning and market research to marketing, funding, operations, succession planning, and business transitions, our experienced advisors help you make informed decisions with confidence.

We don’t just provide resources. We work alongside you to navigate challenges, identify opportunities, and build a stronger path forward. Whether you’re launching your first venture, scaling for growth, purchasing an existing business, or preparing to sell and transition what you’ve built, you’ll find the support, tools, and expertise you need to move ahead.

Your next chapter starts here. Let’s build it together.

Thinking of Starting or New to Business?

Starting a business doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re exploring an idea or ready to launch, BACD can help you move forward with confidence.

Get started with these resources and supports

Our team of experienced advisors works with you 1:1 to:

  • Build your own plan for starting a business
  • Clarify your business idea or growth plan
  • Navigate registrations, zoning, and licensing
  • Explore funding options like Starter Company Plus
  • Strengthen your marketing, operations, or HR

Starting a business doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re exploring an idea or ready to launch, BACD can help you move forward with confidence.

Get started with these resources and supports

Startup Essentials

  • Startup Checklist: Get our downloadable checklist to keep things on track.
  • Register Your Business: Step by step information on what business structure and registrations.
  • If brand new to business – start with attending a Business Fundamentals Workshop: Master the must-knows: start up session, business planning, marketing, and financials. See upcoming sessions
  • Start Smart Program: Work one on one with a business advisor to build your business plan and cash flow in this 8-week program with coaching built in. Cost for Durham Region residents and businesses: $240 + HST. Learn more
  • Grants and Funding for Business
  • Resource Hub: Browse tools and articles on marketing, sales, trademarks, websites, and more.

Own a Business and Ready for What’s Next?

Whether you’re looking to attract more customers, increase profitability, build your team, improve operations, expand into new markets, or prepare your business for a future transition, BACD is here to help.

Common Topics We Help With

  • Growing revenue and profitability
  • Marketing and customer acquisition
  • Pricing and sales strategies
  • Hiring and team development
  • Systems and operational efficiency
  • Funding and financing options
  • Buying or selling a business
  • Succession and transition planning
  • 360 Growth Program: If you’re looking for structure, support, and a clear plan for the next stage of your business, our 360 Growth Program is built for you.
  • Growth Planning & Strategy:  We’ll help you develop a practical, scalable roadmap that aligns with your vision and capacity. Clarify your growth goals, identify gaps, and map out next steps.
  • Marketing & Sales Support: Whether you’re building your first sales funnel or revamping your online presence, our workshops and advisory sessions help you generate more leads, convert better, and grow your brand. Advising in content marketing, SEO, social media, branding, and customer journey mapping.
  • Funding Guidance: Explore your financing options, from government grants to loan programs. We’ll help you figure out what you’re eligible for—and how to apply. Access working capital, invest in new equipment, or hire your first employee.
  • Operations & HR Systems: Growth without structure leads to burnout. We’ll help you figure out the back-end systems that keep your business running smoothly—whether it’s streamlining operations, improving productivity, or preparing to build your team.  Guidance on hiring, onboarding, compliance, and creating a healthy workplace culture.

Thinking About Buying or Selling a Business?

Buying an existing business can be a faster path to entrepreneurship. Selling a business you’ve spent years building requires planning, preparation, and the right support. Whether you’re looking to acquire a business, transition ownership, or prepare for retirement, BACD can help you navigate the process with confidence.

Succession Ontario Program

BACD’s Succession Ontario initiative helps entrepreneurs understand the opportunities and challenges involved in buying, selling, or transitioning a business. Through advisory support, educational resources, workshops, and connections to professional experts, we help business owners plan for a successful transition.

About Succession Planning & Business Transitions

For BUYERS

  • Understand if business ownership through acquisition is right for you
  • Learn how to evaluate a business opportunity
  • Review financing and funding options
  • Build a transition and growth plan
  • Connect with professional advisors and resources

For SELLERS

  • Prepare your business for sale
  • Understand succession and exit planning
  • Identify opportunities to increase business value
  • Connect with trusted professionals
  • Develop a transition strategy that supports employees, customers, and future owners

Explore Our Programs and Services

Free Advisory Services:

  • One-on-one meetings with experienced business advisors
  • Guidance for startups, growth, succession planning, and business transitions

Workshops & Events: Business training, expert-led sessions, networking opportunities, and Do It In Durham Entrepreneurship Week

Programs & Funding

  • Starter Company Plus (funded by the Province of Ontario)
  • Summer Company (funded by the Province of Ontario)
  • Start Smart
  • 360° Growth Program
  • Specialized training and accelerator programs

Buying, Selling & Succession Planning

  • Explore business ownership opportunities
  • Prepare your business for sale or transition
  • Access succession planning tools, resources, and advisory support

Resources & Tools

  • Startup guides, templates, business planning tools, funding resources, and educational content

Need help deciding where to start?
Contact us and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

Resources

Startup Guides

Planning & Rqmts

Market Research

Legal & Insurance

Human Resources

Taxes

Marketing & Sales

Mgmt & Operations

Blog

Upcoming Events

  • October 13 @ 9:30 am

    BACD Business Fundamentals: Marketing & Sales

  • October 14 @ 8:30 am

    Rural Tourism Growth Workshop

  • October 15 @ 6:00 pm

    Growth Journey: Market Entry & Customer Acquisition

  • October 19 @ 9:30 am

    Buying a Business: What to Look For, the Red Flags & How to Get It Financed