Launch a Space Research and Technology Start-up in London, Ontario
This page offers a practical roadmap to launching a Space Research and Technology business in London, Ontario (NAICS 927110). Learn about the 10 essential requirements you must meet, the permits you’ll likely need, typical startup costs, and a clear timeline from idea to operations. It’s designed to be actionable, with bite-sized steps, checklists, and real-world resources to help you move fast and stay compliant.
You’ll discover which licenses and approvals apply to space tech ventures in London, how long each step usually takes, and where costs are likely to appear—from incorporation and business registration to safety, environmental, and export controls. The guide breaks the 10 requirements into practical actions, with tips on budgeting, expected timelines, and concrete next steps so you can plan with confidence.
London’s strong research ecosystem, universities, and tech talent create a prime environment for space research startups. Partnered with a 927110-focused venture, you’ll gain access to collaboration opportunities, funding programs, and pilot projects that can accelerate your growth right here in Canada.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a space research and technology business in London is Occupational Health and Safety Act Compliance. This is a legal obligation under Ontario’s OHSA, and you cannot legally operate without a solid safety program, proper training for staff and contractors, and clear incident reporting and prevention practices. This is non-negotiable, and you should have documented safety policies and practical safeguards in place before you begin hiring or taking on projects. In addition, there are essential registrations and licences you’ll need to secure to stay compliant.
Mandatory Operational Requirements include health, safety, and permits, plus group-related obligations that apply to the workforce and project activities. Ensure you meet OHSA requirements and maintain WSIB coverage for workplace injuries. You’ll also need to align with Employment Standards for your employees and, where projects require access to sensitive facilities or data, comply with security clearance and screening norms as well as the Canadian Space Agency Act provisions that relate to your sector. These steps collectively keep people safe, protect sensitive information, and ensure your operations run smoothly within the regulatory framework.
Business Registration & Tax focuses on the numbers and registrations that keep your business legit and trackable by government agencies. You’ll need a Business Number (BN) with the Canada Revenue Agency and Ontario Business Name Registration (ServiceOntario). If your revenue reaches the threshold, you must register for GST/HST. And if you have employees, you’ll set up payroll deductions registrations as part of your payroll compliance. These registrations simplify taxes, reporting, and employee withholdings so you can run your business transparently and legally.
You’re not alone in this—taking it step by step is very doable. Start with OHSA compliance as your foundation, then secure the necessary licences and registrations
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a space research and technology in London:
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Business Number (BN) Registration RequiredA 9-digit Business Number is required for most businesses operating in Canada. It is used to interact with the Canada Revenue Agency and other federal programs. Required for GST/HST, payroll, corporation income tax, and import/export accounts. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) at canada.ca. Takes 15-30 minutes. As of November 3, 2025, online registration is MANDATORY for new BNs - phone registration no longer available. You'll need: business name, address, owner SIN, business type, and start date. BN (9-digit number) issued INSTANTLY online. Available 21 hours/day, 7 days/week (closed 3-6am ET for maintenance).
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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of London. Apply to City of London for Business Licence: 1. Determine business category 2. Complete business licence application 3. Submit required documents (ID, lease, zoning confirmation) 4. Pay application and annual fees 5. Await approval and receive licence Contact City of London Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
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Ontario Business Name Registration (ServiceOntario) RequiredBusinesses in Ontario operating under a name other than the owner's legal name must register with Ontario Business Registry through ServiceOntario. This includes sole proprietorships, partnerships, and business names for corporations. Registration provides legal protection for the business name within Ontario and is required for banking, licensing, and business operations. Registration can be completed online through Ontario Business Registry. Business name registrations must be renewed every 5 years. Register business name with Ontario Business Registry: 1. Search Ontario Business Registry (free) for name availability 2. Consider NUANS name report ($25) for thorough search 3. Register online through Ontario Business Registry 4. Pay registration fee ($60 for sole proprietorship/partnership) 5. Receive 9-digit Ontario Business Identification Number (BIN) 6. Registration valid for 5 years 7. Renew before expiry
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Occupational Health and Safety Act Compliance RequiredAll Ontario workplaces must comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act to ensure safe working conditions. Requirements include workplace safety policies, training, hazard assessments, and incident reporting. No registration - compliance law. Must post OHSA in workplace. JHSC required for 20+ workers (or 6+ in designated industries). Nov 2025: New administrative penalty scheme, defibrillator reimbursement. Telework now covered. Fines: up to $500K individuals, $1.5M corporations. 27 regulations under OHSA. Must conduct safety audits, maintain training records. Contact: 1-877-202-0008.
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Security Clearance and Screening ConditionalRequired for specific regulated activities. Government personnel in security-sensitive positions must undergo security clearance, background checks, and maintain confidentiality protocols. Federal security clearance and screening. CSIS background checks. Reliability status, Secret, Top Secret levels. Contact Treasury Board: 1-877-636-0656.
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Canadian Space Agency Act Compliance ConditionalRequired for specific regulated activities. Space research and technology organizations must comply with CSA regulations, international space treaties, and obtain appropriate authorizations. Canadian Space Agency Act compliance. Remote sensing licensing. Space activities authorization. Contact CSA: 450-926-4800.
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Employment Standards Compliance ConditionalApplies if you have employees. Covers minimum wage, hours of work, vacation pay, public holidays, termination notice, etc. All Ontario employers must comply with the Employment Standards Act, covering minimum wage, hours of work, overtime, vacation, termination, severance, and other workplace rights. No registration required - compliance-based requirement. Follow Employment Standards Act (ESA) for minimum wage, hours of work, overtime, vacation, leaves, and termination. Post ESA poster in workplace (free download from ontario.ca). Keep employment records for 3 years. NEW for 2025: Employers with 25+ staff must provide written employment info to new hires by July 1, 2025. Job postings must include salary ranges by Jan 1, 2026. Call 1-800-531-5551 for help.
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GST/HST Registration ConditionalRequired if annual taxable revenue exceeds $30,000 (small supplier threshold). Taxi/ride-share drivers must register regardless of revenue. Businesses with gross revenues over $30,000 in any single quarter or over four consecutive quarters must register for, collect, and remit GST/HST. Small suppliers (under $30,000) may register voluntarily. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when your revenue exceeds $30,000 in any 4 consecutive quarters (small supplier threshold). Takes 15-30 minutes. You MUST register within 29 days of exceeding threshold and start charging GST/HST immediately on the sale that made you exceed it. Need your BN (or get one simultaneously). As of Nov 3, 2025, online registration is mandatory. Voluntary registration available anytime for input tax credits.
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Payroll Deductions Registration ConditionalRequired if you pay salaries, wages, or other remuneration to employees. Must register before first pay period. Required if you have employees. You must withhold Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Employment Insurance (EI), and income tax from employee wages and remit to CRA. Register FREE online through Business Registration Online (BRO) when you hire your first employee. Takes 15-20 minutes. You'll need your Business Number (BN) or can get one simultaneously. Payroll account (RP) added to your BN instantly. Register BEFORE your first pay date. Required to deduct CPP, EI, and income tax from employee wages. For 2025: CPP rate 5.95%, EI employee rate $1.66/$100 insurable earnings.
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WSIB Registration and Coverage ConditionalRequired within 10 days of hiring first employee, including family members and subcontractors. Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) registration is mandatory for most Ontario businesses with employees. Provides compensation and support for workplace injuries and illnesses. Sole proprietors and partners can apply for optional coverage. Register FREE online at wsib.ca in 15-20 minutes. MANDATORY for most Ontario employers within 10 calendar days of hiring first worker. You'll need: CRA Business Number, payroll estimate, business activity description, owner/director info. Account number issued INSTANTLY online. Construction industry has expanded compulsory coverage. Premium rates vary by industry classification. Must display WSIB safety poster in workplace.
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