As we step into 2025, small businesses like yours remind us that anything is possible with hard work, resilience, and a passion for what you do. In our latest Small Business report, we highlighted first-hand conversations and informal client surveys with entrepreneurs that underscored how Canadians are launching businesses driven by a desire to make a positive impact. We also learned that they are proactively seizing opportunities as they arise, and that many are starting small and scaling up gradually. In other words, starting a business in Canada today is personal, intentional, and purposeful.
This year, we’re energized by the opportunities to support and celebrate your journey. We’re committed to being by your side as you set and achieve new goals, strengthen your relationships with your customers, and continue to leave a lasting impact on your community.
The start of a new year is often a time for fresh ideas, renewed focus, and bold ambitions. With 95% of business owners saying they feel the need to stay proactive in the present climate, entrepreneurs can start strong by reviewing what went well, and what could be improved for the year ahead. Consider creating – or refining – your business plan to help you identify and reach your goals for 2025. Look for ways to scale your operations, expand your product lines, or explore new markets. This exercise can uncover new efficiencies, spark innovation and open doors to new growth.
We believe in the power of small businesses to shape the future, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. As an organization deeply rooted in supporting and empowering small businesses, our goal is to make it easier for Canadian entrepreneurs to navigate every stage of their business growth with unique solutions that go beyond banking.
Thank you for the inspiration you bring to your community and beyond. We can’t wait to see what this year holds for you.
Don Ludlow
Vice President of Small Business, Strategy & Partnerships at RBC
In an insightful interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, Don Ludlow, Vice President of Small Business, Strategy & Partnerships at RBC, shared his thoughts on the surge in entrepreneurial interest across Canada. Based on findings from the 2024 RBC Small Business Poll, Ludlow delves into the diverse pathways Canadians are taking to start their own ventures and the evolving landscape of small business ownership. With a focus on flexibility, meaningful work, and the rise of “blended careers,” he highlights the factors driving this shift and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to turn their passions into successful businesses.
