Resources: FAQ

• About EDN
• Business Questions
• Other Questions

About EDN

Who are we?

EDN is a non-profit organization committed to providing information and guidance in entrepreneurship to persons with disabilities.

What do we do?

• promote and facilitate entrepreneurship among persons with disabilities
• understand and represent the needs of entrepreneurs with disabilities
• advise government, business service providers, and others on how best to serve entrepreneurs with disabilities

When are we available?

Monday - Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

Where are we located?

In the Canada/Nova Scotia Business Service Centre
1575 Brunswick St.
Halifax, NS B3J 2G1

Why do we exist?

Our organization is geared to support entrepreneurs with disabilities. It includes links to many resources on the Internet and is ideally suited for small and/or home-based businesses, those considering entrepreneurship and especially persons with disabilities involved in or interested in entrepreneurship.

Is EDN for me?

EDN is for you if you are:

• An entrepreneur with a disability
• A person with a disability interested in entrepreneurship
• An individual or organization interested in facilitating entrepreneurship for persons with disabilities.

Business Related Questions

Are there networking opportunities?

Yes, EDN offers monthly networking sessions. Networking Sessions can be found on our Announcements page.

I want to start a business, but I don't know where to start. Can you tell me where I can get some ideas?

Yes, if you are interested in starting a business or have a business idea we can put you in the right direction.

Where can I find information on how to write a business plan?

Located in the Canada/Nova Scotia Business Service Centre's library, our clients have access to an Interactive Business Planner (IBP).

Does your organization offer free services for persons with disabilities?

Yes, EDN offers a wide variety of free services to clients. To learn more about these services call (902) 426-0561.

What kind of business are you in?

Your business! Because 'Your Dreams Are Our Business'.

I have a disability, can I be an entrepreneur?

Yes, entrepreneurship is a viable career option for a person with a disability. If you have a business idea or have an existing business our organization can assist you in developing your idea further.

Do I need a business license?

There are many licenses for different types of business in Nova Scotia. Search the Nova Scotia Permits Directory to find out if your business will require special permits.

Do I need a tax number?

You must register for and charge the harmonized sales tax (HST) if you sell or provide taxable goods or services in your commercial activities in Canada and if your total taxable revenues are more than $30,000 in the immediately preceding four consecutive calendar quarters, or exceed $30,000 in a single calendar quarter. If your sales do not exceed $30,000 in four consecutive calendar quarters, you do not need to register, or charge HST.

How do I protect my invention? Do I really need to protect it?

Patent, Trademark, Copyright, Industrial Design and Integrated Circuit Topographies are all forms of Intellectual Property. Contact the Intellectual Property Specialists in your area for more information.

What should I know before I buy an existing business?

The key to successfully purchasing a business is to fully investigate before you commit yourself. "Buying a Business" provides some points to consider on costs, profits, liabilities, purchase agreement, and determining the price or value of a business.

Other Questions

Can I access the Internet from your Centre?

Yes, we are located in the Canada/Nova Scotia Business Service Centre and all our clients have full access to workstations in the Centre's Library.

Can I apply for a loan or grant from your organization?

No, EDN does not offer loans programs as we are a referral organization. If you have questions or would like more information on organizations or resources that offer loans program you can contact EDN and we can refer you to the appropriate area.

Where can I find information related to PWD on this site?

Our disability resources and /or entrepreneurial links pages list this kind of information.

Where can I find information about your Networking Sessions?

EDN's Information and Networking Sessions can be found on our Announcements page.

Is there an annual meeting for the general public?

Yes, EDN welcomes the general public to their annual meetings. They are usually held in May or June of each year.