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Welcome to Community Futures Lethbridge Region!             Training for the  Chinook Entrepreneur Challenge has started, but it's not too late to join! Check out the rest of our training under the Business Training tab!             
"A driving force that builds healthy, prosperous communities in rural Alberta."
 
 

Frequently Asked Questions

The following frequently asked questions represent typical questions received by Community Futures Lethbridge. 

 What grants and loans are available for new businesses?

Community Futures Lethbridge does not provide grants to businesses.  Loan programs and other financial assistance may be available.  For more information on the loan programs available click here.

For information on finding Government Grants visit the following website:

 

How do I start a business?

Community Futures Lethbridge provides one-on-one business assistance to help individuals who are interested in self-employment or in expanding their business.  A Business Planning Guide folder is available at our office with a business plan template and useful information for starting a business.  Our Business Analyst can assist you in answering questions on starting a small business.

There are many useful internet sites available.  For more information check these sites:

Canada Business Service Centres offer a wealth of information on business planning and start-up. Visit Canada Business - Services for Entrepreneurs.

 

 

How do I register my business and find a registry agent near me?

Rules and regulations vary from province to province.  For more information, refer to:

Alberta Government Site for business registration:

Federal Incorporation:

 

What communities does Community Futures Lethbridge provide loans to?

The Community Futures Lethbridge Region encompasses a region including, but not limited to, the City of Lethbridge, the County of Lethbridge, Coaldale, Raymond, Magrath, Picture Butte, Stirling, Barons, Nobleford and Coalhurst.

 

Where can I find information about loan financing information outside of the Community Futures Lethbridge area?

Although we will field questions from those outside of our coverage area, it is best to consult the Community Futures Development Centre that serves your area. Western Economic Diversification has provided a web site which will determine where this centre is located. Please follow this link to determine the nearest Community Futures office in your region.

 

 

Do you have information or loans for entrepreneurs with disabilities?

Community Futures Lethbridge offers loans to persons with disabilities up to the amount of $150,000.  Contact our office for detailed information.

 

Do you have information or loans for youth entrepreneurship?

Youth loans are available for up to $25,000 for entrepreneurs between the ages of 18-29.  Contact our office for detailed information.

 

How do I find information for women on starting a business or obtaining financing?

Community Futures Lethbridge helps both men and women achieve their goal of operating a small business.  The Women's Enterprise Initiative also provides business information and services specifically aimed at women entrepreneurs.  For more information visit the Alberta Women Entrepreneurs site.

 

How do I get a business number, business license and information on GST?

For general inquiries regarding Taxation and to order information on the following:  Business Number, Corporate Income Tax, GST, Payroll Deductions, and Customs Registration:

 

Contact     Lethbridge Tax Services Office

                     200, 419 - 7th Street South

Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 4A9

PHONE:  (403) 382-3013

                 

Request for forms                                   1-800-959-2221

TIPS - Automated Tax Info                  1-800-267-6999

Business inquiries                                   1-800-959-5525

Refund inquiries, including GST          1-800-959-1956

GST/payroll deduction inquiries          1-800-661-7478

 

BUSINESS NUMBER (BN) 

This is a number used by Revenue Canada to uniquely identify your business.  The number will be used to identify the company for corporate income taxes, payroll deductions, goods & services tax (GST), and for any importing or exporting the business may do.  Visit the Government of Canada website for more information and forms to obtain a BN.

 

GOODS & SERVICES TAX (GST) 

  • The business must register for GST if gross revenues exceed $30,000 per year.  You can voluntarily do so if your revenues are less than $30,000
  • Registering for GST allows the business to claim the GST it has paid on services, materials, and supplies.
  • The GST registration number and other information must appear on all sales receipts and invoices.
  • GST registration forms for registration are available online.
  • For information, or to order forms contact the Lethbridge Tax Services Office (same address and phone number listed above). 

 

Where can I find market information and community profiles?

In Alberta, community information can be found on these websites.

 

Where can I find information on businesses in my province?

Industry Canada maintains information on businesses throughout Canada.

 The WD Micro Loan Program is offered in cooperation with First Nations Bank of Canada to improve access to financing for small businesses starting or expanding in Western Canada.  For more information, please refer to:

The Aboriginal Business Info-Guide is a document designed to help you navigate through the different government programs and services and identify those of interest.  For more information, please visit:

Planning and Assessment for Value-Added Enterprises (PAVE) will provide farmers with financial assistance to retain the services of business planning professionals and develop plans for value-added projects..  For more information, refer to:

For information on non-valued farm diversification, refer to:

 






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