Scope the market

Check to see market conditions and competition in your niche.

I recommend: Try The Federation of International Trade Associations (FITA) for a quick study on market access, practical information, economic indicators, market research, country risk, doing business, taxes, the labor market, media and other useful topics. The government of Canada provides comprehensive information on investing, buying and selling for foreign companies.

Move your goods across the border quickly

The Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program is a joint initiative involving the Canada Border Services Agency and the United States Customs and Border Protection to help companies move pre-approved eligible goods across the border quickly.

I recommend: Apply for the FAST program online.

Win a Canadian government contract

The government accepts bids from US companies online via the MERX system.

I recommend: Visit the MERX site to get into the bidding.

Get help from the US government

The U.S. Commercial Service Canada can connect you with partners and help make arrangements to set up shop in Canada.

I recommend: Contact the Commercial Service.

Cover the legal angles

Understand Canadian incorporation, taxation, investment and employment laws. For instance, the government reviews all foreign investment to determine if it is likely to be of "net benefit" to Canada.

I recommend: Canadian law firm Gowling Lafleur Henderson created a legal guide for American companies doing business in Canada.