News & Blogs

 

In this section we have gathered some of the most popular information sources, such as news, blogs, discussion forums and other informal resources. Industry information is always changing - for the latest news, current issues and popular opinions - try following one or more of these sources. In addition, news, blogs and forums usually give you the opportunity to join the conversation, either by posting comments, questions or opinions of your own. 

Blogs

InsBlogs

Key Websites

In this section we have gathered some of the most reliable freely available online government and employment websites for you to use in your research.

Canadian Websites

WorkBC | Find current employment outlooks, labour market information, relevant links, and a geographic representation of the BC workforce. Start by searching your Industry Profile.

Associations & Magazines

In this section we have gathered some of the most popular information sources, such as trade journals, magazines, blogs, and association websites. Industry information is always changing. For the latest news, current issues and popular opinions, try following one or more of these sources. In addition, interacting with the websites that provide this information through commenting and asking questions may also provide you with more information.

Associations 

Insurance Bureau of Canada

Industry Codes

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS)

At the start of your research, it may not be clear what specific industry you should be examining. A good strategy is to find out if your business idea is classified in an industrial classification system. These systems organize industries by assigning them a numeric code. The most commonly used system is the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). Once you know your Industry Classification Code you can use this number to:

Find Industry Info

Conduct Your Industry Research 

  • Find information specific to your industry to help you succeed
  • Write your industry overview
  • Start your market analysis

Checklist

  • What are NAICS or SIC codes for the business research?
  • What are the risks, trends, opportunities and outlooks for the insurance sales industry?

Find Capital

Finding the money that a new business requires is an important step to success. With proper planning and a few resources to guide you on your way, identifying and securing capital to start and grow your business becomes a much smoother and gentler process. Here are a few starting places to help you. 

Find Business Plans

Review Sample Plans for Ideas

In the page below you will find examples of successful business plans. Researching your business plan can be a very time-consuming experience, but it is an essential and worthwhile investment. Your business plan will become your most important day to day operating tool. The information resources and strategies in this guide will help you create an effective plan and increase your chances for business success.

Getting Started

Start Right

  • Read books related to your industry and business planning
  • Review sample business plans for ideas
  • Find capital

Checklist

  • What does a comparable business or marketing plan look like?
  • Are there books about running a business in this industry?
  • What funding or financing opportunities might be available to me?

News & Blogs

In this section we have gathered some of the most popular information sources, such as news, blogs, discussion forums and other informal resources. Industry information is always changing - for the latest news, current issues and popular opinions - try following one or more of these sources. In addition, news, blogs and forums usually give you the opportunity to join the conversation, either by posting comments, questions or opinions of your own. 

Blogs

The Business Bakery

News & Blogs

In this section we have gathered some of the most popular information sources, such as news, blogs, discussion forums and other informal resources. Industry information is always changing - for the latest news, current issues and popular opinions - try following one or more of these sources. In addition, news, blogs and forums usually give you the opportunity to join the conversation, either by posting comments, questions or opinions of your own. 

Blogs

Canadian Couch Potato