7 Essential Resources & Tools for Starting a Contracting Business in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA)

Starting a contracting business can be an exciting yet daunting endeavor. With numerous logistical, financial, and operational hurdles to overcome, having access to the right resources can make a significant difference.

In this blog post, we’ll explore useful resources that can help you kickstart your own company efficiently and effectively. However, it's important to note that while we're sharing these resources, we have not used them ourselves. Always vet and conduct thorough research and due diligence before committing to any tools or services.

7. Ontario Business Resources

Ontario Business Resources are listed as our #7 resource because, although they may not have as immediate an impact on day-to-day operations as our other resources, they still play a vital role in establishing the foundational elements necessary for starting a business in the trades. While they may not be utilized as frequently, they provide essential guidance for sustained success and growth in the long run. We’ve put together a few Ontario links we believe you’ll find useful.

Business Registration: One of the first and most crucial steps in starting your contracting business is by legally registering it in Ontario. This process legitimizes your business and can open up opportunities for funding and hiring employees. The Ontario website walks you through choosing a business structure, registering for a Business Number (BN) with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), and more legal processes to ensure you’re ready to hit the job site and build your business!

Small Business Enterprise Support: The business registration process may become overwhelming as it involves navigating numerous challenges, especially with the initial setup. Small Business Enterprise (SBE) has centers located across Ontario that offer personalized support to help new entrepreneurs like you succeed. These centers provide a wealth of resources, including one-on-one consultations, workshops/seminars, legal consults, and guidance on licenses, permits, registration, regulations, and more. Plus, you get the chance to experience networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs (perfect time to ask about any home renovations they have going on)!

Toronto Business Grants & Funding: Securing adequate funding is a crucial step in establishing and growing your contracting business. Starting a business in the trades can come with large start-up costs due to purchasing expensive equipment and hiring a crew for more hands on-site. Fortunately, there are several Toronto grants and funding opportunities available to support small businesses like yours. These financial resources can help cover start-up costs, equipment purchases, marketing expenses, and more, allowing you to keep your focus on building your business on and off-site.

6. Outreach and Lead Generation Tools

Outreach and lead generation tools come in as #6 on our list. They play an important role in helping contractors grow their business by attracting new clients and building a strong customer base. These tools help contractors to market their services, generate leads, and establish an online presence.

Fiverr is one of many platforms that offers a convenient solution for contractors who want to elevate their marketing efforts without diverting their attention from the job site. This platform provides access to a global network of freelance marketing professionals specializing in areas like search engine optimization (SEO), content creation, graphic design, and more. Even if you're not well-versed in marketing, Fiverr makes it easy by offering a variety of marketers to choose from, each with unique skills, specialties, and pricing structures. Since Fiverr is a freelance marketplace, be sure to vet potential freelancers to ensure their work meets your standards and aligns with your company's goals and budget. By outsourcing your marketing to freelancers on Fiverr, you can generate leads, increase brand visibility, and grow your business while keeping your focus on-site.

Facebook Groups can be invaluable for contractors looking to connect with peers, share insights, and discover new business opportunities. For those just starting their business journey, marketing through Facebook Groups is an excellent first step. By joining relevant groups within your industry or local community, you can access a wealth of knowledge, exchange tips and tricks, and stay updated on the latest trends in the contracting world. As a trades business owner, these groups can connect you with potential clients, subcontractors, and industry professionals, helping your business grow. Here’s a list of a few local groups in the Greater Toronto Area and surrounding regions to get you started:

1. GTA Handyman & Renovation Community
2. Handyman Services (GTA / Ontario, Canada)
3. Contractors GTA
4. Ontario Renovation & Toronto Contractors
5. Toronto Small Business Owners
6. Small Business Toronto
7. Construction Jobs Toronto + GTA (Bricklayers, Labours, Carpenters etc)
8. Construction Workers Toronto
9. Construction & Renovation GTA FAQ
10. Contractors GTA

5. Taxes, Bookkeeping, and Accounting Software

Taxes, bookkeeping, and accounting software are great for small business owners in the trades, enhancing both accuracy and efficiency in financial management. Managing business finances can be overwhelming, especially for newcomers, but these tools alleviate much of the stress by automating routine tasks, maintaining precise financial records, and minimizing errors. Additionally, many accountants are familiar with popular financial tools like QuickBooks, making it easy to transition your finances to a professional if needed. These software solutions streamline financial operations, allowing you to focus on growing your business. Here are a couple of popular financial tools for your small business:

QuickBooks is a comprehensive platform designed for all your bookkeeping and tax needs. Widely recognized and used by many accountants, it can be particularly helpful if you plan to work with an accounting professional. QuickBooks offers a range of tools, including the ability to send invoices and accept payments, manage cash flow, track expenses, monitor sales and inventory, handle payroll, and track employee time.

Wave is an excellent accounting and bookkeeping software tailored for small businesses. It offers a variety of financial management tools through an intuitive, user-friendly dashboard, making it easy for small business owners to take control of their finances. Wave provides comprehensive services, including invoicing and payments, income and expense tracking, payroll, and access to bookkeeping, accounting, and payroll advisors. With Wave's in-house coaches and features, it's an ideal solution for small businesses aiming to efficiently manage their financial operations.

4. On-Site Digital Tools

On-Site Digital Tools are ranked #4 on the list because they significantly boost the efficiency and accuracy of daily operations at the job site. By improving overall efficiency and reducing costly mistakes, on-site digital tools help contractors stay within budget and meet project deadlines, which is crucial for maintaining profitability and client satisfaction. Here are 2 digital tools you can download and use on the job site today:

Trax is revolutionizing the way contractors navigate building codes in the GTA and surrounding regions. Powered by artificial intelligence (AI), Trax simplifies the process of finding and understanding local building codes, saving you valuable time that you can spend on site and minimizing the risk of compliance errors. The intuitive interface allows contractors to quickly search for relevant building codes based on project location, type, and specifications. No more sifting through documents or contacting people for information. Plus, Trax keeps building codes up to date so you can stay informed on the latest updates and revisions for every area. Focus on delivering exceptional results for your clients that are by the book every time with Trax. Please be aware that when using any AI-based tools, there is always the chance of errors or inaccuracies. Always double-check critical information to ensure compliance and accuracy.

The All-In-One Calculator is a great mobile tool for contractors seeking efficiency and accuracy in their on-site calculations. This app streamlines a wide range of calculations from simple measurements to complex equations, empowering contractors to save time and improve productivity on the job site. The simple interface allows you to quickly determine project dimensions, convert measurements, and make calculations. Plus, you can use the widget overlaying other web pages or apps, eliminating the need to switch between multiple platforms. Try using it with Biiibo App and other project management apps to save time! Be confident about your calculations and material delivery every time so your projects go off without a hitch.

3. Project Management Apps

Project management apps rank as the third essential resource on our list due to their pivotal role in ensuring operations are executed efficiently and on track. Project management apps provide a centralized platform for organizing tasks, scheduling deadlines, managing clients, and tracking progress, which can enhance your productivity and save you time and money. Check out a few of our project management app suggestions:

Jobber: A software solution designed to streamline the administrative aspects of your contracting business, from quoting to invoicing and everything in between. With Jobber, you can effectively manage your projects, communicate with clients, and organize your finances, all from one platform. The top few features to keep your contracting business running smoothly are quoting, scheduling, marketing, invoicing, and getting paid by clients.

Contractor Foreman: Coins themselves the most affordable and easy-to-use construction management software, supporting contractors in over 75 countries. This comprehensive tool allows you to manage various aspects of your business, including projects, permits, finances, clients, and scheduling, all from a single platform. Accessible on all your devices—computer, tablet, and phone—Contractor Foreman ensures that you can seamlessly oversee your operations anytime, anywhere, enhancing productivity and efficiency in your contracting business.

Simplify your administrative duties with a project management app, while letting Biiibo handle material procurement and delivery, saving you time and money to concentrate on the job site.

2. Biiibo: Building Materials Procurement & Delivery App/Website

Building relationships with suppliers to acquire quality building materials is a key part of being a contractor and a foundational part to running a contracting business. Biiibo ranks #2 on this list because it provides a digital solution for streamlining the procurement and delivery of building materials, essential for the smooth operation of any contracting business. Here's why it's so valuable:

Easy Ordering: Our user-friendly web and mobile app offers an extensive range of building materials ready to be delivered to your job site in just a few clicks. Save time by ordering with us and keep your projects on track.

Fast Delivery: There is no need to spend billable hours running to pick up your building materials when you use Biiibo. Our same-day and scheduled delivery options are available to get you your materials fast while you stay on-site making money.

Competitive Pricing: We pass on our bulk order savings to you. Get access to deals and savings exclusive to Biiibo users.

Dedicated Customer Support: Our team is here to assist with product selection, order queries, and after-sales support. Biiibo also offers a blog dedicated to providing tips, tricks, and resources on all things contracting. Be sure to check our other posts for further support and information.

Biiibo PRO: Want to learn more about how to get free deliveries? Check out what it means to be a Biiibo PRO member.

1. Biiibo’s 2024/2025 Small Business Starter Guide For The Trades

Biiibo’s Small Business Starter Guide For The Trades earns the top spot on our list because it is both a guide and resource for new and seasoned tradespeople looking to start or grow their own business. Packed with valuable tips, useful resources, and real-life stories, this guide provides practical advice and insights to help you navigate challenges and achieve success in your business endeavors.

Already own a business in the trades? Learn how to take it to the next level by leveraging tech tools and knowing when to increase your marketing efforts.

Just getting started on your business journey? The Getting Started resources are a perfect place to start. Plus, get ahead by understanding some common challenges you may encounter and learning how to overcome them.

Looking to earn extra income? The side hustle section provides actionable ideas on how to utilize your passion and talents in the trades to supplement your income and/or grow it into a full-time business.

Equip yourself with the Small Business Starter Guide For The Trades, these great resources, and begin building your business!

Although starting a contracting business is no small project, with the right resources, the journey becomes much more manageable. Equip yourself with Biiibo’s 2024/2025 Small Business Starter Guide For The Trades, along with the other tools and resources outlined here, to establish a strong foundation as you build or expand your business. By leveraging these resources, you can focus on what you do best - delivering exceptional work while growing your business.