February 2010:
The provinces of Ontario and British Columbia have announced their intention to harmonize the provincial sales tas with the federal goods and services tax (GST) on July 1, 2010.  The Canada Revenue Agency is taking steps to ensure businesses are aware of the harmonized sales tax (HST) in these provinces and has developed dedicated website information at www.cra.gc.ca/harmonization.

As part of Canada's Economic Action Plan, self-employed people can now register for special Employment Insurance benefits.  For information please visit the Service Canada website.
 

January 2010:
Small Business BC is celebrating B.C. entrepreneurs’ winning ideas by hosting the Successful You Business Contest & Awards. Founded in 2003, this is a free annual provincial-wide competition open to all new and existing small businesses.  Click here for more information about the contest, or to enter or nominate a candidate. 

November 2009: 
Read the Government of Canada news release, The Government of Canada delivers Employment Insurance fairness for the self-employed.  Legislation is expected to be approved that would allow self-employed individuals to register and pay EI premiums starting in January 2010.  This would make them eligible, after a one-year period, to receive certain EI benefits, including maternity, parental, sickness and compassionate care benefits.