The federal government has announced it is bringing its online innovation portal, which matches small and medium-sized businesses with government programs and services, to mobile devices.
The app is designed to help small businesses access government programs and services simply and quickly.
Canada Business is a mobile business consultant, simplifying access to government services. Designed as an all-access point for business, Canada Business aims to provide a customized user experience to find essential information on programs, directly interact with government resources, and access tools to help Canadians focus on building their business.
“The Canada Business App is a fantastic tool that will help small business owners access the government programs and services they need simply and quickly,” said Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business and Export Promotion, adding that the app is part of the government’s plan to “reduce red tape” for Canadian small business owners.
The app is designed to streamline the process for small business owners to navigate government services, receive tailored recommendations, and personalized notifications on funding applications as well as when to file taxes. The app allows users to learn about starting and financing a business, intellectual property, hiring, engaging with the government, filing taxes, importing and exporting, and finding licenses and permits to conduct business.
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Users can customize their experience, through a profile that allows them to manage a list of notifications and calendar updates, unlock personalized features, and tailor search results. The app also has an automated chat feature that is meant to help users navigate the app more easily. The government stated that it is accepting feedback from users to improve the app.
The federal government’s online portal version requires users to ask a series of questions to determine what services they can access to help their businesses. These services can range from capital investments, grants, loans, tax creditors, wage subsidies, partnerships, and expert advice.
The current version of the app is early access, with more features expected to be rolled out in the coming weeks and months. It is currently available on the iOS App Store and Google Play.
