General research and statistics

Find information on research and statistics resources available online or in person through your local Canada Business Service Centre. You will also discover how to obtain data and analysis through various channels offered by Canada's central statistical agency, Statistics Canada. You can also access catalogues and materials from various Canadian government libraries, as well as a broad range of international statistics from the United Nations.

Statistics Canada

As Canada's central statistical agency, Statistics Canada produces a wealth of statistical and analytical information that can help you to make informed business decisions.

• Market Research Handbook
  
  http://www.statcan.gc.ca/bsolc/olc-cel/olc-cel?lang=eng&catno=63-224-X
  Browse this comprehensive source of Canadian socio-economic statistics produced by Statistics Canada.
• The Daily
  
  http://www.statcan.gc.ca/dai-quo/index-eng.htm
  View the most recent statistical releases from Statistics Canada. You can subscribe to receive daily news releases on current social and economic conditions and new products.
• CANSIM
  
  http://cansim2.statcan.gc.ca/cgi-win/CNSMCGI.EXE?LANG=Eng&Dir-Rep=CII/&CNSM-Fi=CII/CII_1-eng.htm
  Browse or search Statistics Canada's key socio-economic database and create custom data outputs (for a fee).
• Directory of Statistics on Small and Medium-Sized Businesses
  
  http://cansim2.statcan.gc.ca/cgi-win/cnsmcgi.pgm?Lang=E&SP_Action=Sub&SP_ID=63&SP_Mode=2
  Browse Statistics Canada resources on the characteristics and financing activities of small and medium-sized businesses.
• Downloadable Statistics Canada Publications
  
  http://dsp-psd.pwgsc.gc.ca/Collection/Statcan/index-e.html
  Browse this directory of Statistics Canada official publications, organized by subject and catalogue number.
• Special Tabulations and Surveys
  
  http://www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/summary/2152/
  Applies to: All of Canada
  Create custom tabulations from existing data sources or have Statistics Canada conduct a special survey to meet your statistical needs.

Libraries

Libraries provide access to a host of statistics and information that can otherwise be difficult or expensive to obtain.

Canada Business Centre Libraries

Canada Business Centres are located in each province and territory and many feature libraries that are stocked with materials to help small businesses.

• Specialized Research Service - Canada Business Ontario
  
  http://www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/summary/2224/
  Applies to: Ontario
  Are you looking for a specialized business research service that is free of charge to help you start or grow your business?

Public and Government Libraries

Public and government libraries are excellent sources of statistics and information that you can use to grow your business.

• Canadian Library Gateway
  
  http://www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/gateway/s22-211-e.html
  Access library catalogues and resources available from various government libraries in Canada.
• Business Information at Ontario Public Libraries
  
  http://www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/summary/2223/
  Applies to: Ontario
  Your local Ontario public library can offer you a variety of resources and services to help start, grow or manage your business.