Winnipeg, MB - Today, the Province of Manitoba and the City of Winnipeg announced that the City’s use of the National Business Number has begun and that local business will now see a reduction in red tape when working with the City’s Assessment and Taxation, Community Services, and Planning, Property and Development Departments. The City of Winnipeg is the first municipality to integrate the National Business Number into its customer service processes.
“Our Government is focused on creating jobs, growth, and long-term prosperity. Through the measures we have introduced as part of the Red Tape Reduction Action Plan we are allowing companies to focus on what they do best, create jobs and grow the economy,” said the Honourable Minister Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue. “I am pleased that Winnipeg has decided to streamline business dealings with government. This initiative will simplify the way that businesses interact with different levels of government, reducing the burden placed on entrepreneurs.”
“Manitoba has been a leader in encouraging adoption of the business number because we know it will streamline business operations and help them to succeed”, said Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade Minister Peter Bjornson. “We are pleased that our provincial capital is the first municipality in the country to come on board.”
The City began using the National Business Number during customer service for licenses, permits, and business tax, on May 13. City staff report that the use of the business number has been well received by City clients.
“I am proud that the City of Winnipeg is the first Canadian municipality to adopt the use of the National Business Number,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “By taking the lead and making a strong commitment to reducing red tape for local business, we are making it easier for businesses of all sizes to operate and thrive in our city.”
“The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) applauds the City of Winnipeg for becoming the first municipality in Canada to adopt the national Business Number and all three levels of government for working together to make this a reality. Adopting the Business Number will reduce the red tape burden on small businesses giving them more time to focus on what they do best: creating jobs and growing the economy,” said Ben Kolisnyk, Policy Analyst, Canadian Federation of Independent Business.
The National Business Number is a unique, nine-digit number that identifies a business and is assigned by the Canada Revenue Agency. Each business uses the same nine-digit number in order to establish a common business identity across departments and levels of government.
For more information on the National Business Number, visit Canadian Revenue Agency - Business Number Registration or Province of Manitoba - One Business, One Number