Doing Business in Toronto
Toronto is repeatedly and consistently ranked at the top of international indexes for competitiveness, innovation and liveability. Very few cities in the world can offer such multi-sector strength, depth of talent and a driving economic and financial engine. Toronto is a pro-business environment and prides itself on a city government that is committed to nurturing and supporting business.
Introduction to Toronto
Why Toronto
Very few cities in the world can offer such multi-sector strength, depth of talent and a driving economic and financial engine.
Start your business
Toronto is a magnet for entrepreneurship and innovation; however, transforming an idea into a business and fostering its growth is not a straightforward process. The City offers tips, resources, and one-on-one advice to help new businesses succeed.
Operate & Grow Your Business
The City is committed to creating an environment for business to thrive. Staff help business navigate municipal programs and provide consultation and hands-on solutions.
How we can help
Consultation and advocacy
Economic Development staff leverage their experience and knowledge of Toronto's business landscape to help with business development and expansion, location and relocation.
Support for key industry sectors
Toronto houses a web of interconnected businesses that are stronger because of those connections. This multi-sector strength drives growth, innovation and synergies.
Gold Star service to guide and expedite development
The City's Gold Star program for business is an enhanced case management program to expedite eligible industrial, commercial office and institutional development and building applications.
Dedicated support for the film industry
The Toronto Film, Television and Digital Media Office staff guide filming professionals through the entire location filming permit process.
Business Improvement Areas (BIA)
The City's Business Improvement Area (BIA) Office helps Toronto's network of over 70 BIAs to create prosperous, competitive and safe business areas.
Business start-up and growth services
Enterprise Toronto provides free assistance to entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Business incubation services
Together with community partners the City delivers a broad range of business incubation programs to support small business success.
Explore international markets
Economic Development staff provide guidance on expanding into international markets and can help you make connections with business representatives from Toronto’s global economic development partnerships.
Recruitment services
Toronto Employment Social Services (TESS) staff work with businesses to match employers with qualified candidates. TESS provides many services for employers including hiring supports and incentives.
News
Accelerating economic growth
Toronto's new economic growth plan aims to create a more attractive business and investment climate in Toronto.
Toronto Business News
Read the latest issue of Toronto Business News, your source for information on Toronto's economy, business climate, and services to help your business grow.
Toronto has highest total employment number since 1990
The annual employment survey bulletin, Toronto Employment Survey 2012 reports that Toronto has experienced positive job growth for three consecutive years, with 38,400 jobs created between 2010 and 2012.
2012 a record year for screen-based industry
In 2012 direct expenditures in Toronto's screen-based industry reached $1.2 billion - a 5.9% increase over 2011 production values - matching the peak year 2000 production value levels.
Municipal support for rooftop solar
Toronto City Council has approved a motion which supports the construction and operation of rooftop solar projects anywhere in Toronto.
Toronto becoming a skyscraper city
Toronto's skyline is undergoing unprecedented change. Between 2008 and 2016 Toronto's inventory of skyscrapers will have more than doubled.
Contact Us
Economic Development & Culture
Toronto City Hall, 8th floor, East
100 Queen Street West, Toronto ON
Tel: 311 (if calling from within Toronto)
Tel: 416-392-CITY (2489) Fax: 416-397-5314
bizconnect@toronto.ca
Resources for business
Opportunities Bulletin Board
Find local business and investment opportunities.
Business Incentives
Toronto has a variety of incentives which make Toronto a competitive and attractive location for new development.
Signature Sites Collection
Showcasing over 50 Toronto properties that are available for purchase and/or development.
Data Centre
Find population, demographics, labour force survey, education, and real estate data on Toronto here.
Events
Seminars, training and forums
Improve your business skills and knowledge.