This compilation reflects the breadth of business and financial resources found on bdc.ca. The five articles cover greenhouse gas reduction, business licensing, financial management and business planning.
As a bonus, we've added a client company story to highlight the incredible work that Canadian entrepreneurs do every day of the year.
Everything you need to know about seller financing
Seller financing is a form of business acquisition lending that allows a portion of the purchase price to be retained as a loan from the seller. This article explains how this form of financing can help you close the deal when you buy a business. Seller financing is typically part of an acquisition financing plan that includes an investment from the buyer, a bank loan, and mezzanine financing. Seller financing typically ranges from 10% to 15% of the transaction amount.
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Net Profit Margin Calculator
Net profit margin measures how much money is left over self employed database from each dollar of sales after all expenses are paid. It is calculated by dividing net profit by net sales. This article explains why net profit margin is essential and how to use it to assess the financial health of your business. You can also use the net profit margin calculator to measure your profit for the year.

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SMART goals
SMART is an acronym for a set of goals and objectives for managing your people or running a business. It stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-Based. Learn what each of the criteria means. For example, under the “specific” goal, it’s essential to clearly state what needs to be accomplished and by whom, where and when it will be accomplished, and why it’s important that it be done. The article also gives examples of SMART goals for different business functions, such as sales, marketing, operations, and finance.
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Renovate your building to reduce emissions
Reducing energy consumption and reducing environmental impact have become priorities for Canadian businesses. Read this article to learn how retrofitting a building’s systems or structure can help you reduce your carbon footprint. You’ll also get tips for creating and implementing a plan and evaluating your results. The article also lists the benefits of retrofitting a building.
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When does a business need a permit, license or registration?
Do you need a permit, or do you need to register something or pay for a license to operate your business ? Find out what you might need at the municipal, provincial and federal levels, as well as the registration rules for federal and provincial consumption taxes. You'll also find resources to learn more about licenses, permits and registrations.
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As a bonus
The story of a client company
Calgary Aggregate Recycling
Meet Travis Powell , an Indigenous entrepreneur who is revolutionizing the construction industry by recycling contaminated soil. His company, Calgary Aggregate Recycling, recycles construction waste and turns it into premium products.