How To Register A Business In Manitoba In 5 Easy Steps (2024)

Congratulations on deciding to start your business in Manitoba! Your first step up the ladder of success as a new business owner in Manitoba is to register your business with the provincial government.

In Manitoba, registering a business is important because it makes it legal for you to operate within the province. This is a big step in starting your business journey.

Whether you’re starting a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation, we’re here to help you through the process. In this blog post, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to register a business in Manitoba. We’ll cover everything you need to know to get it done smoothly.

How to Register A Business in Manitoba in 5 Easy Steps

When starting a new business in Manitoba, you must register your business with the Government of Manitoba.

One of the most common questions when registering a business is “Where do I start?” Many Manitobans are confused about registering their business whether small or big, the following steps will show you how to register a business in Manitoba:

Step 1: Create an account with Companies Office

To register a business in Manitoba, you must create an account with the Manitoba Companies Office.

The Manitoba Companies Office is responsible for registering information about corporations and business names. They grant access to the business names database where you can search the registry to obtain information (for example, who is doing business under the trade name, where the business is located, and get a list of officers and directors).

When you want to incorporate or register your business name, the Companies Office reviews the proposed names to ensure that they aren’t confusingly similar to ones already on their record. Then Companies Office will incorporate the company or register the business name.

Step 2: Do a name search

I am sure you already have a unique business name in mind for your new business venture. If you don’t have one, you can come up with something creative or ask friends and family members to help you create a unique business name.

When you have decided on your business name, you can file a name reservation with the Companies Office. Filing a name reservation in Manitoba costs $45 per name search. The Office will conduct a search to determine if the business name you have chosen is available.

If the business name is available, it will be reserved for you for 90 days. During this time, you should file the necessary forms to register the business name. However, if the business name is not available, you must choose a new name and request another reservation for $45.

If your business name is available and reserved, this is not protection or guarantee that your business name is automatically available. You must ensure that the business name you choose is not identical or confusingly similar to an existing trademark, business, association or corporation.

The Companies Office has some guidelines and rules for choosing a business name in Manitoba. You may also wish to consult a lawyer about all the ramifications of choosing and registering a name.

Note: If you anticipate operating your business venture in other provinces within Canada, you can do a name search within the New Upgraded Automated Name Search (NUANS) database.

Step 3: Receive confirmation of name reservation

If the Companies Office verifies that your business name is unique and available (no similar name or trademark in the database), you will receive a confirmation of name reservation.

This confirmation signifies that your business name is available and your name reservation request is successful.

Step 4: Fill out registration forms

With your business name fully reserved, you can go ahead to register your business by filling out the registration forms and paying a fee of $60.

These forms will require you to provide some information, including the business name, the contact person, the address of the business, the start date of the business, the type of business, as well as your business number (if applicable), and registrant information.

You must complete your registration forms using ink, or typed. They do not accept double-sided forms for faxed copies of the form, so you will need to send this form directly to the Companies Office.

Registering a business usually takes 4 days and your business name will be legally protected for 3 years. You must renew your business name registration 60 days before the date of expiration.

Step 5: Receive certifications

Once your business name is registered, you can expect to receive a Manitoba Certificate of Business Name Registration from the Manitoba Companies Office. You can use this certification in your interactions with financial institutions and when filing your business tax returns with the Manitoba Government.

Staying Compliant With Annual and Ongoing Obligations

As a new business owner, you must be aware of your business’s annual and ongoing obligations including:

paying taxes for the year.
disposing of a capital property or had a taxable capital gain in the year.
accessing employment insurance (EI) special benefits for self-employed persons.
making Canada Pension Plan (CPP) payments on self-employed earnings or pensionable earnings for the year.
receiving a demand from the Canada Revenue Agency to file a return.
Renewing your business registration once every 3 years

Guidelines and Rules for Choosing a Business Name in Manitoba

When picking a name for your business in Manitoba, it’s essential to follow certain guidelines and rules to ensure it’s acceptable for registration. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Distinctive and Descriptive Elements: Ideally, a business name should have a distinctive element and a descriptive element. The distinctive element distinguishes names with similar descriptive elements, while the descriptive elements describe the nature of the business. For example: “Winnipeg Beauty Shop”

Distinctive Element: “Winnipeg”
Descriptive Element: “Beauty Shop”

2. One-Word Names: A business name can be just one word, but it may be challenging to obtain if it’s already in use by another company.

3. Numbered Names: You can use a numbered name without a request for name reservation.

4. Punctuation Marks: Only specific punctuation marks are permitted, such as ! ” # $ % & ‘ ( ) * + , _ – / : ; < + > ? [ ] \ .

5. Family Names (Surnames): A business name can contain a family name but not solely a surname (e.g., “Reynolds”). If a surname is used, the individual must be the registrant or provide consent.

6. Initials: If a name consists entirely of initials, it must have at least three letters (e.g., “ABF”).

7. Profession-Related Names: If a name suggests the practice of a regulated profession, proof of professional standing is required for registration.

8. Prohibited Names: Certain words and expressions are prohibited in business names, including obscene terms, misleading descriptions, and those implying a connection with government authorities without appropriate consent.

Do I Need To Register My Business in Manitoba?

Before you begin your business registration process, ensure that it’s something you actually need to do.

If you intend to operate a sole proprietorship and intend to use your name (for instance, Mr. Jason Jakes) as the business name, like “Jason Jakes Printing Press”, you usually don’t need to register. You simply need to put up a sign with your full name where everyone can see it, and you’re good to go.

However, if you’re planning to use a name that’s different from your own (like “Economy Printing Press” instead of just “Jason Jakes Printing Press”), or if you’re partnering up with someone else (like “Jason Jakes and Valerie Smith Printing Press”), or if your business name suggests that more than one person is involved (like “Jason & Company”), then you must register the business name with the Manitoba Companies Office.

How Long Does It Take to Register a Business in Manitoba?

It usually takes 4 days to register your business in Manitoba. Once you have submitted your registration forms, you can expect to receive your Manitoba Certificate of Business Name Registration after four days.

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Business in Manitoba?

Here is all you need to know about the cost of registering a business in Manitoba:

Name Reservation	$45
Registration of Business Name	Partnership - $60 Sole Proprietorship - $60
Power of Attorney	$40
Incorporation	$350
Non-Profit Incorporation	$120

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Final Thoughts on How to Register a Business in Manitoba

Registering a business in Manitoba is a straightforward process that sets the foundation for your entrepreneurial journey in this vibrant province.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can navigate the registration process with ease and ensure compliance with legal requirements. Remember to conduct thorough research, gather necessary documentation, and utilize available resources such as online portals and government support services.

With determination and attention to detail, you’ll soon have your business officially registered and ready to thrive in Manitoba’s dynamic economy.