GDI BUSINESS FAST-TRACK PROGRAM

The GDI Business Fast-Track program is a 10-week program designed for Saskatchewan residents who are Métis citizens and want to learn the key steps to properly setting up and managing a business.

The program is ideal for:

-Individuals who are interested in starting a business and want to learn the process

-Individuals who are currently in the business development phase of a new business

-Individuals who are in the early operating stages of their business

Start date - Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025

Completion date - Wednesday June 4th, 2025

Lessons are held from 12pm - 1pm on Wednesdays via Google Meet video call

The program consists of one hourly session per week for 10 weeks

Students are expected to pay a $250 deposit prior to the beginning of the program that will be returned to them upon successful completion of the program in June.

Spots for the program are limited and interested candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a resident of Saskatchewan
• Must be a registered Métis citizen with the MN-S
• Must pay the $250 program deposit
• Must attend instructional sessions via video call
• Must have an approved business idea

Spots for the program are limited and are awarded on a first-come-first serve basis for qualified applicants. The application deadline is Thursday, March 27th at 5pm. Late applicants or those applying after the program is full can be put on a wait-list for the next cohort.

• Choosing a suitable business idea
• Pros and cons of business ownership
• Choosing a business startup method
• Requirements of starting a business

• Estimating business startup costs
• Researching industry regulations
• Selecting a target market and service location
• Determining estimated operating costs
• Researching prospective clients

• Understanding the different legal structures for business
• Choosing a suitable legal structure for your business
• Selecting an appropriate business name
• Reserving the business name with the business registry
• Registering or incorporating the business

• Choosing an appropriate location for your business
• Understanding zoning bylaws and building usage regulations
• Searching for commercial properties and understanding leases
• Obtaining a municipal business license
• Obtaining other required licenses or permits

• Finalizing startup costs
• Determining funding options
• Writing a business plan
• Obtaining loans or business financing

• Setting up business bank accounts
• Creating bookkeeping templates or setting up software
• Bookkeeping best practices
• Creating quote, invoice, and receipt forms

• Understanding tax implications for businesses
• Determining tax treatments for different legal structures
• Determining which expenses can be claimed for business
• Understanding basic PST obligations and practices
• Understanding basic GST obligations and practices

• Determining business insurance needs
• Worker's compensation accounts and obligations
• Setting up payroll accounts and employee deductions
• Labour laws and employment contracts

• Determining your business branding strategy
• Creating a website and social media accounts
• Creating a Google Business profile
• Determining best methods to advertise
• Creating logos, business cards, and marketing material

• Connecting with complementary businesses
• Business networking strategies
• Managing relations with business partners
• Maintaining relationships with clients

• Maintaining business license and registration
• Filing sales tax and income tax
• Maintaining payroll, worker's compensation, and insurance
• Lease renewals, special licenses, and continuing education
• Maintaining a strong online presence
• Continuing education for business owners