Launch Your Business with CIBC
From initial concept to first revenue, CIBC provides the banking foundation and expert guidance new Canadian businesses need to start strong.
Your Startup Roadmap
Register and Structure
Choose your business structure — sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation. Register your business name, obtain necessary licenses, and apply for a Canada Revenue Agency business number. Each structure has different implications for liability, taxation, and financing eligibility.
Establish Your Banking
Open a CIBC Starter Account to separate business and personal finances from day one. This establishes the financial foundation for invoicing, payment processing, and financial record-keeping that lenders and investors expect to see.
Secure Initial Financing
Access the Canada Small Business Financing Program through CIBC for government-backed loans up to $1,150,000. CSBFP loans offer more favourable terms for eligible startups, reducing the financial risk of launching a new venture.
Set Up Operations
Configure CIBC digital tools to automate invoicing, payment collection, and expense tracking. Integrate with accounting software to maintain accurate financial records from day one. Apply for a business credit card to begin building commercial credit history.
Financing Options for Startups
Launching a business requires capital, and CIBC provides multiple pathways to secure the funding you need. The Canada Small Business Financing Program offers government-guaranteed loans specifically for startups, with terms significantly more favourable than conventional business lending.
For established entrepreneurs starting a new venture, CIBC business term loans and revolving credit facilities provide flexible capital access. Your CIBC business advisor helps structure financing that matches your cash flow projections and minimises carrying costs during the critical early months.
Building business credit history begins with your first CIBC transaction. Maintaining a business operating account, using a business credit card responsibly, and making loan repayments on time establishes the credit profile that supports future borrowing as your business grows.
Common Questions
Starting a Canadian business requires choosing a structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation), registering your business name, obtaining applicable licenses, and getting a CRA business number. CIBC advisors can guide you through the financial setup including account opening and initial financing.
Yes. CIBC participates in the Canada Small Business Financing Program, providing government-backed loans up to $1,150,000 for eligible startups. These loans offer more favourable terms to reduce the financial risk of launching.
CIBC Digital Business supports new ventures with startup banking, government-backed financing, and expert advisory. Launch your business with the CIBC Digital Business Starter Account and access to the Canada Small Business Financing Program through the CIBC Digital Business platform.