It’s Small Business Month in Canada and this year we’re shining a spotlight on the spark that ignites every entrepreneurial journey. From crystalizing that very first idea to scaling that fuels growth, small business owners embody the creativity and resilience that power Canada’s economy. We’re proud to celebrate these remarkable entrepreneurs and their stories of perseverance, and community impact. Read on to uncover first-hand experiences and advice and see how we’re supporting small business owners across the country.
Sparks of Inspiration: Stories from Small Business Owners
Every great business begins with a spark: an idea, a leap of faith, a moment of creativity. Meet these Canadian entrepreneurs who share not only their stories of adaptability and innovation, but also the real-world tips and lessons that can help other business owners keep their own spark burning strong.
Sheepdog Brew Co.
Turning passion into purpose, Sheepdog Brew Co. shows how staying true to your craft – and resisting the pull of every trend – can be the smartest way to grow.
Signé Sarah
For Signé Sarah, adaptability isn’t optional, it’s the heart of her business. See how she balances creativity with quick pivots to keep her spark alive.
Twisted Indian Fusion Street Food
Twisted Indian proves that innovation can live right on your menu. By blending tradition with new ideas, they’ve found fresh ways to attract customers and grow.
RBC Small Business Poll: Aspirations Hit Eight-Year High as Resilience Defines Small Business Owners
We polled Canadians and owners about their views on small businesses and the message is clear: Canadians are pursuing their business dreams, and today’s entrepreneurs are meeting challenges with resilience and resolve. It’s a story of growth, grit and creativity — a uniquely Canadian approach to building businesses. Entrepreneurs are navigating shifting economic conditions, changing customer expectations and new technologies with strength and optimism. What emerges is a portrait of owners who are willing to pivot, open to taking risks and committed to serving their communities.
50 Ideas from Real-Life Entrepreneurs
Ever wondered what it takes to be an entrepreneur? We called on business owners from across the country to share their top insights and hard-earned lessons learned. While their entrepreneurial journeys differ, we uncovered five key themes – take a look!
RBC in the Community: Supporting Canada’s Entrepreneurs
RBC Rock My Business Start-Up Awards
November, 2025
RBC Future Launch and Futurpreneur will announce the RBC Rock My Business Start-Up Awards where eight young entrepreneurs will be awarded $10,000.
RBC Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards
For 20 years running, RBC has sponsored the Canadian Women Entrepreneur Awards, the pre-eminent national business awards recognizing the country’s leading female entrepreneurs. Read how these amazing women are making an impact on Canada’s economy and communities. Winners will be announced Nov, 2025.
Canadian SME National Business Awards
The RBC Small Business of the Year Award is awarded to a Canadian small business that has shown exceptional growth in the past two years and has demonstrated leadership, innovation, growth in profits, and a brilliant business plan for the future. Still time to apply for the SME Awards!
RBC Programs Promoting Entrepreneurship
Whether you’re a new business owner or a seasoned veteran we can help with advice, connections and banking solutions to get your new business started or to grow it to the next level.
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RBC Black Entrepreneur Program: Apply for a loan with lending rates as low as Prime + 2.50% and loan funding up to $250,000, available to eligible1 Black Entrepreneurs in Canada.
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Emerging BIPOC Film & Media Producers Fund: Provides access to interim financing and other crucial support to non-established media & entertainment producers within the BIPOC community.
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RBC Global Connect: Explore new markets, find new global business partners and enjoy around-the-clock access to free online trade tools and resources.
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Thinking of Starting a Business? Turn your business idea into action with The Founder’s Journey, a free online course taught by Ivey Business School faculty, in collaboration with RBC Future Launch, and The Globe and Mail.
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Considering a business as an agricultural producer? The Foundations in Agricultural Management course, a collaboration between University of Guelph, Farm Credit Canada (FCC) and RBC Future Launch, provides an introduction to key management concepts that lay a foundation for farmers to take a more proactive approach to managing their business and planning for the future.
Starting a business comes with all kinds of firsts. Here’s how to make them easier.
From registering your business to opening a business bank account to planning for growth, RBC is here to support you every step of the way.
This article is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. Information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or any of its affiliates.
