The Business Development Bank of Canada's Patrice Bernard, Vice President, Operations Support and Strategic Initiatives has an article in the Globe and Mail on starting a business in Canada. The story launches the 2006 Young Entrepreneur Awards campaign sponsored by the BDC.

What are Patrice's key success factors for starting a small business?

Information is the key to success. The most successful businesses are run by people who know their sector well

Get the help you need. Building a network of professionals such as bankers, lawyers, accountants and experienced consultants who can help you out is a good first step.

Prepare a well-structured and realistic business plan. Having a great business idea is not enough.

Form alliances. Strategic alliances help entrepreneurs diminish their vulnerability when they first start businesses.

Establish clear HR strategies. Recruiting and retaining the right people is a challenge for start-ups as they may lack the financial resources to pay high salaries.

Capitalize your business fully. Getting financing for a start-up is already a challenging task since you have to prove your worth and good credit to bankers.