Launch a Space Research and Technology Startup in Moncton
This page guides you through starting a Space Research and Technology business in Moncton, NAICS 927110. It offers a practical, 10-point roadmap with the permits, licenses, and approvals you’ll need, plus an upfront look at costs and a sensible timeline to get your idea off the ground. You’ll also find quick tips to craft a focused business plan, choose a compliant workspace, and connect with local mentors.
You’ll learn exactly what those 10 requirements cover, how the permitting process works (zoning, safety and lab inspections, environmental considerations, research licenses, and export controls where relevant), and the typical startup costs to budget—from registrations and insurance to specialized equipment, lab space, and ongoing compliance. We also map a realistic timeline from formation to launch, with milestones you can track month by month.
Why Moncton? A growing space tech ecosystem, access to universities and research partners, supportive city policies, and competitive costs make this city a smart place to build a space research venture. Tap into local talent, government programs, and industry networks as you test ideas, attract customers, and scale.
Requirements Overview
The most critical requirement for operating a space research and technology business in Moncton is the Business Licence. This is a legal prerequisite—you cannot legally run a business in the city without it. You should obtain the licence before you start operations or hire staff, and it usually needs annual renewal. Treat this as non-negotiable; without it you risk fines, orders to stop work, or other serious consequences.
On the operational side, you’ll need to cover health, safety, and governance requirements. Ensure you have New Brunswick WorkSafeNB Employer Coverage to protect your employees, and be prepared for security clearance and screening for staff and contractors if your work requires access to sensitive information or facilities. If you’re pursuing government or space-related programs, you’ll also need to align with the Canadian Space Agency Act. Depending on your business structure, you may also need Partnership Registration if you operate as a partnership.
For registration and taxes, you’ll want to line up all the business and tax numbers early. Register your business name with New Brunswick (SNB), obtain a federal Business Number (BN) for tax accounts from the Canada Revenue Agency, and register for GST/HST. If you plan to operate as a corporation, complete NB Corporation Registration; if you hire employees, set up Payroll Deductions Registration; and if you form a partnership, complete Partnership Registration. These steps ensure you’re compliant and ready to grow.
You’re off to a great start. Next steps: assemble the key documents, set a realistic timeline, and reach out to Service NB or a local business advisor in Moncton to start the licences and registrations. With a clear plan and these essentials in place, you’ll move confidently from concept to compliant, ongoing operations.
Detailed Requirements
Here are the specific requirements for starting a space research and technology in Moncton:
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Business Licence RequiredGeneral business licence required to operate a business in City of Moncton. Apply to City of Moncton 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 Moncton Business Licensing for specific requirements. Home-based businesses may have different requirements. Annual renewal required.
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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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New Brunswick Business Name Registration (SNB) RequiredBusinesses in New Brunswick must register their business name with Service New Brunswick if operating under a name other than the owner's legal name. This applies to sole proprietorships, partnerships, and trade names. Registration provides legal recognition and is required for business operations and licensing. Registration can be completed online through SNB Online. Business name registrations for sole proprietorships and partnerships must be renewed every 5 years. To register a business name in New Brunswick: 1. Conduct name search ($13.80) 2. Complete registration through SNB Online 3. Pay $112 registration fee (includes Royal Gazette) 4. Receive certificate of business name 5. Renew every 5 years ($62) 6. Report any changes as required
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Partnership Registration ConditionalRequired for partnerships. Registration of partnerships. Register through Province of New Brunswick Corporate Registry or business services: 1. Conduct name search if applicable 2. Complete registration application 3. Submit required documents 4. Pay registration fees Contact Province of New Brunswick government services for specific requirements and fees. Annual reporting may be required.
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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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NB Corporation Registration ConditionalRequired if incorporating in New Brunswick. Incorporation under NB law. Register through Province of New Brunswick Corporate Registry or business services: 1. Conduct name search if applicable 2. Complete registration application 3. Submit required documents 4. Pay registration fees Contact Province of New Brunswick government services for specific requirements and fees. Annual reporting may be required.
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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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New Brunswick WorkSafeNB Employer Coverage ConditionalRequired if you have employees in New Brunswick. Employers in New Brunswick must register with WorkSafeNB (Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission) and maintain coverage for workers. WorkSafeNB provides insurance coverage for workplace injuries and occupational diseases. Most employers are required to register, with limited exceptions. Registration must occur within 10 days of commencing business operations or hiring the first worker. Employers pay assessments based on their classification unit rate and assessable payroll. To register with WorkSafeNB: 1. Determine if you're in a mandatory industry with 3+ workers 2. Register with WorkSafeNB online or by phone 3. Report assessable payroll annually 4. Pay premiums based on industry rate ($1.18/100 avg 2024) 5. Maintain coverage and report workplace injuries 6. Experience rating affects rate (+80% to -40%)
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