Zensurance Small Business Insights
News and resources for Canadian small businesses and startups covering the economic and business insurance landscape.
Recent posts
How to Prevent Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks are among the most pervasive cyber-attacks against small businesses and independent professionals. Learn more about it and how to prevent your company from falling prey to it.
Airbnb and VRBO Holiday Rentals: What Hosts Should Know About Insurance
Airbnb and VRBO hosts should also consider the risks associated with holiday rentals. Booking holiday stays may involve elevated risks of property damage or liabilities. Here’s how to protect your rental and finances.
What Is a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for Contractors?
Contractors, subcontractors, and construction professionals must prove they have valid liability insurance to work. Verifying you are insured with a certificate of insurance (COI) is critical for bidding on projects, obtaining building permits, and landing contracts. Here’s what every construction professional should know.
10 Business Insurance Claims We Saw in 2024
Insurance is critical for protecting small business owners’ and independent professionals’ finances and reputations. Need proof? Here are 10 real-life insurance claims we resolved in 2024 for our clients.
The Holiday Season Approaches: What You Need To Know About Liquor Liability Insurance
As restaurant and bar owners prepare to make the most of the holiday season, it's important to consider the risks and protections associated with serving alcohol. Here’s what owners of establishments serving alcohol need to know.
Zensurance Business Grant Winner 2024: Down East Dance Academy
Meet our $10,000 and $1,000 small business grant winners, their advice for other business owners and entrepreneurs, and why insurance is an essential part of their financial wellness.
Small Business Tips
How to Write a Snow Removal Contract
Gearing up for the winter and inking customers to your snow removal contracts should be in full swing well before the chilly weather descends. See our tips for things your snow removal contracts may need to include for commercial and residential properties.
40 Side Hustles to Make Money in 2024
In addition to making extra income, a side hustle is a testing ground to try out a new idea before jumping headlong into starting a business. Looking for inspiration? Here are 40 side job ideas to consider.
8 Things to Do If Your Tools Are Stolen
Knowing tools and equipment theft has almost become a national sport, every contractor and construction professional needs to take action to protect themselves and their gear. Here’s what you should do before and after your tools are stolen.
Insurance
Malpractice Insurance for Mental Health Professionals: What You Need to Know
Mental health and wellness practitioners who strive to help people overcome their challenges and live healthier lives face many significant pitfalls that could upend their careers and reputations. Here’s how these professionals can protect themselves.
10 Questions to Ask Before Renewing Your Small Business Insurance
Reviewing your insurance coverage at least annually is recommended before renewing a policy. It’s also worthwhile to ask an insurance broker a few questions to ensure you’ve got the protection your company needs. Here are 10 questions to ask.
Trump Tariffs: How Canadian Small Businesses Can Prepare
Canada’s economy is deeply intertwined with the American economy. If the Trump administration imposes a 25% tariff on all Canadian imports, Canada’s economy and small business community could be dramatically affected. Here’s what to know.
Financial Business Tips
How to Grow Your Small Business in an Uncertain Economy
Economists expect the Canadian economy to grow by 0.5% in 2023. That’s significantly less than the 3.5% growth realized in 2022. See our tips for small businesses grappling with increasing their margins and remaining competitive.
How Your Small Business Can Accept Credit Card Payments in Canada
The monetary landscape is shifting, emphasizing the need for Canadian small businesses to adapt to accepting cashless payments more frequently from their customers. Here’s what you should know.
Canadian Small Business Tax Filing Tips for 2023
Tax season is fast approaching, and small business owners and self-employed professionals should start preparing now rather than later. Get a rundown of important dates and how to reduce your chances of being audited.
Cybersecurity
Does Your Small Business Need a Cybersecurity Strategy?
Many small business owners may not be aware of the likelihood of falling prey to a cybercriminal, thinking they’re too small for a crook to target. That’s not true. Follow our steps for creating an inexpensive cybersecurity strategy to protect your business.
No More Passwords: How Passkeys Can Help Make Your Small Business Secure
Data shows the passwords we use today are among the weakest links in cybersecurity defence. Passkeys are poised to replace passwords. Get details on what they are and how they can help make your small business more secure.
5 Common Cyber Liability Insurance Claims
Small businesses and startups are not immune to cyber-attacks. Get a rundown of some of the most common cyber-attacks that hit companies of all sizes and how cyber liability insurance can help a business recover from one.
Startup Tips
How to Start an IT Business in Canada
Much like a technologist, entrepreneurship is about problem-solving. Considering our economic environment, the moment to strike out on your own may be at-hand. Here are the steps to take to bring your tech startup to life.
How to Become a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) in Canada
Read our guide on starting a career as a registered massage therapist and find out what education and hands-on experience you need, salary details, insurance considerations, and more.
A Guide to Selling on Depop
Get the lowdown on selling on Depop, including what you can sell online, selling fees, recommended insurance coverage, and more.