Zensurance Small Business Insights
News and resources for Canadian small businesses and startups covering the economic and business insurance landscape.
Recent posts
Renters’ Rights: What Landlords in Canada Need to Know
Each province determines the rental and tenancy laws in its jurisdiction, governing a wide variety of issues, including rent increases, dispute resolutions, and evictions. Get an overview of the rights that renters in each province have that landlords should abide by and know.
How to Do a Business Name Search in Canada
A memorable business name can create brand awareness, drive customer loyalty and sales, and eventually help you attract the talent you need when it’s time to hire employees. Here are the steps you need to take to register and protect your company’s name.
Small Business Grants Ontario
Securing funding is essential for the innovation and growth of all small businesses and startups. This guide outlines 20 small business grants available in Ontario and Canada, along with other financing opportunities to help business owners accelerate their growth.
Hiring? 8 Smart Strategies for Small Businesses to Attract & Keep Top Talent
While talent shortages may persist and make hiring and retaining talent more challenging for small business owners, the issue is not insurmountable. Here are 8 ways to win the talent game and grow your business.
What Is Inflation? A Guide for Small Business Owners in Canada
Inflation isn't simply about rising prices. It's about supply and demand imbalances. This guide explores the definition of inflation, its impact on interest rates, and ideas for Canadian small businesses to manage its effects.
Snow Removal Insurance: What You Need To Know This Winter
Obtaining the right coverage to protect high-risk snow removal operations can be challenging – especially if contractors wait until the fall to take action. See our tips for getting ready for the winter ahead, keeping your premium low, and how Zensurance can help you get coverage.
Small Business Tips
Hiring? 8 Smart Strategies for Small Businesses to Attract & Keep Top Talent
While talent shortages may persist and make hiring and retaining talent more challenging for small business owners, the issue is not insurmountable. Here are 8 ways to win the talent game and grow your business.
Zensurance Business Grant Winner 2025: Demex Cakes
We're excited to introduce the winners of our second $10,000 and $1,000 small business grants in 2025! Learn from their valuable advice for fellow business owners, and discover why they consider insurance a cornerstone of their financial well-being.
Survey: Small Businesses Feel the Squeeze as Economic Pressures Mount
Tariffs, inflation, and shifting economic winds are hitting small businesses hard. According to the fourth annual Zensurance Small Business Confidence Index, 62% of owners say today’s economic climate is hurting their operations. Here’s what else is keeping them up at night.
Insurance
Should I Pay My Small Business Insurance Premium Monthly or Annually?
Business insurance premiums can vary widely based on your industry, business size, and risk exposure. Paying a premium upfront once a year might save some money in the long run, but it’s not always realistic. Here’s how you can make an informed decision.
Renters’ Rights: What Landlords in Canada Need to Know
Each province determines the rental and tenancy laws in its jurisdiction, governing a wide variety of issues, including rent increases, dispute resolutions, and evictions. Get an overview of the rights that renters in each province have that landlords should abide by and know.
What Is Inflation? A Guide for Small Business Owners in Canada
Inflation isn't simply about rising prices. It's about supply and demand imbalances. This guide explores the definition of inflation, its impact on interest rates, and ideas for Canadian small businesses to manage its effects.
Financial Business Tips
5 Tips for Increasing Your Small Business’s Profit in a Slow Economy
Challenges remain for small businesses to grow their profit margins due to inflation and higher-than-average interest rates. Here are five things you can do to grow profitability in a tight economic environment.
10 Business Insurance Claims We Saw in 2023
For some professionals or business owners, buying business insurance is a legal or regulatory requirement. For others, it is not. Either way, it’s wise to do so. Here are 10 real-life reasons why you should.
Will the Bank of Canada Cut Interest Rates in 2024?
The Canadian central bank’s first interest rate decision and announcement of 2024 is hotly anticipated. Will the Bank of Canada announce an interest rate hike, cut, or will it hold its rate steady? Here’s how each possibility may affect small businesses.
Cybersecurity
How to Protect Your Business on Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2024
The opportunity Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the holiday season present also poses considerable liability risks for any small business or independent seller angling to get in on the action. Here’s what to watch for and how to protect your company and finances.
8 Cybersecurity Tools for Small Businesses Using Mobile Devices
Mobile device security threats are rising. Most Canadian small businesses use mobile devices for their operations. Securing the devices your employees and company use is vital to a well-rounded cybersecurity plan. See our suggestions for upping your mobile security.
What to Do If Your Small Business Suffers a Cyber-Attack
An estimated 69% of Canadian small businesses don't consider cybersecurity a financial priority, and only 20% intend to purchase a cyber insurance policy. If you suspect your business has experienced a cyber-attack or data breach, taking immediate action is critical to minimize the damage.
Startup Tips
50 Side Hustle Ideas to Make Money in 2025
In addition to making extra income, a side hustle is a testing ground to try out a new idea before jumping headlong into starting a business. Looking for inspiration? Here are 50 side job ideas to consider.
How to Become a Landlord in Canada
If you’re entering the residential property rental market now or thinking of doing so soon, your timing couldn’t be better. But know that becoming a landlord and maintaining a rental property is a lot of work. See our guide for how to set yourself up for success.
10 Things to Do to Start a General Contracting Business
Thinking of being your own boss and calling the shots? Canada needs more entrepreneurs, but be aware starting a business has its challenges. Here's how to prepare to launch and run a successful contracting business.