Being an Entrepreneur in 2026 | January Round Up

Photo: AREA 81 Coffee Chat in Owen Sound, Ontario.

Government of Canada launches survey to develop action plan for rural communities

The federal government (through Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada) has opened a national survey to shape a new rural development action plan, running from December 15, 2025 to February 6, 2026.

For entrepreneurs and small business owners in rural, remote, and northern areas, this is a direct chance to influence the programs and infrastructure that affect staffing, connectivity, transportation, housing, and access to capital.

The survey focuses on three practical areas: how to improve existing federal initiatives for rural realities, which programs (federal/provincial/territorial/regional) are already working well locally, and what policy changes or “nation-building” projects would most improve long-term sustainability—plus how success should be measured.

Strategically, treat your response like a mini business case: quantify constraints (e.g., broadband gaps, freight costs, labour shortages), identify the specific supports that would unlock growth (procurement access, training, childcare, permitting, financing), and propose measurable outcomes (jobs created, business starts, time/cost savings, population retention).

Consider coordinating with your chamber, RM, Indigenous partners, or sector association so multiple submissions reinforce the same priorities and increase the odds they appear in the final plan.

Date: January 3, 2026 | Source: Government of Canada launches survey to develop action plan for rural communities

What can Canadian entrepreneurs expect for 2026?

BDC expects 2026 to be a “mixed” year for Canadian entrepreneurs: modest GDP growth (around 1%) alongside ongoing trade uncertainty and rising operating costs, which will keep margins under pressure.

The most practical response is to run a tighter ship—track cash and margin drivers weekly, cut “hidden waste” (rework, overproduction, double entry, unnecessary meetings), and standardize key processes so teams execute consistently.

The article also flags a near-term opportunity window: Canada’s shifting priorities toward infrastructure, energy/electricity build-outs (including data-centre demand tied to AI), and defence-related supply chains—so businesses positioned as suppliers, contractors, or niche service providers should start mapping procurement pathways and partnerships now.

On the growth side, a wave of ownership transitions is coming as many owners near retirement; buyers can find attractive deals, but should de-risk with smarter structures (e.g., vendor notes and earn-outs) and ensure post-close “breathing room” in financing.

For founders seeking capital, expect cautious VC, longer fundraising cycles, and an emphasis on capital efficiency—plan runway accordingly while leaning into productivity tech (including AI) where it clearly improves throughput or customer service.

Date: December 19, 2025 | Source: What can entrepreneurs expect for 2026?