Canadian businesses have faced enormous challenges and pressures from global economic uncertainty in the past year. Although 2009 has been a challenging year for almost every company in Canada, small businesses in particular have persevered. Those companies have emerged leaner, smarter and better positioned to benefit from the coming recovery. In fact, the opportunities that are likely to arise over the next several months could represent the growth opportunity of a generation.

In this article, you'll learn about:

• tips on managing through the slowdown
• investing for efficiency in your business
• controlling cost
• creating liquidity
• identifying gaps in the market
• strategies for obtaining financing to support growth
• updating your business plan
• controlling cash flow
• assessing working capital
• stress testing your financial plan