Small Business Technology Hub
Everything you need to get your new business set up with the right technology — from choosing hardware and software to finding grants and government programs. Curated by the Fundy Tech team for Nova Scotia small businesses.
New Business Technology Checklist
The essential technology steps for setting up a new small business in Nova Scotia. Print this list and check off each item as you go.
This checklist is a starting point — your specific needs will vary by industry. Need help deciding what applies to your business? Book a free assessment →
What Every New Business Actually Needs
No fluff, no enterprise-grade overkill. Here is what a 5-to-50 person business genuinely needs to operate safely and efficiently.
Computers & Devices
Business-grade laptops or desktops with warranty and professional support. Consumer devices cost less upfront but fail faster and lack manageability.
- ✓Choose business-class models (Dell Latitude, Lenovo ThinkPad, HP ProBook)
- ✓Budget $900–$1,500 per workstation for reliable machines
- ✓Include a next-business-day warranty for every device
Email & Productivity Suite
Microsoft 365 Business or Google Workspace gives you professional email, document collaboration, cloud storage, and video meetings in one subscription.
- ✓Use a custom domain ([email protected]) from day one
- ✓Microsoft 365 Business Basic starts at ~$8/user/month
- ✓Set up shared calendars and Teams/Spaces for internal chat
Cybersecurity Basics
Every new business needs endpoint protection, multi-factor authentication, and a basic backup plan — even before you hire your first employee.
- ✓Enable MFA on every account (email, banking, cloud apps)
- ✓Install business-grade endpoint protection (not just antivirus)
- ✓Set up automated cloud backups before you have data to lose
Business Phone System
Cloud VoIP replaces traditional phone lines with a system that works on desk phones, mobile apps, and computers — with a single business number.
- ✓Cloud VoIP (RingCentral, Teams Phone) starts at ~$25/user/month
- ✓Get a local 902 number and a toll-free number if needed
- ✓Set up an auto-attendant so callers always reach someone
Networking & Wi-Fi
Reliable internet connectivity and a properly configured network are the foundation everything else runs on.
- ✓Get a business-grade internet plan with an SLA (not residential)
- ✓Use managed access points (UniFi, Meraki) instead of consumer routers
- ✓Separate guest Wi-Fi from your business network
Accounting & Payment Processing
Cloud accounting software and modern payment processing are essential for tracking finances, invoicing, and accepting payments.
- ✓QuickBooks Online or Xero for invoicing, expenses, and tax prep
- ✓Square, Stripe, or Helcim for card payments (in-person and online)
- ✓Connect your bank feed for automatic transaction categorisation
Funding & Support You Should Know About
Government programs, grants, and industry resources specifically relevant to Canadian small businesses adopting technology. Links verified as of May 2026.
Disclaimer: External links are provided for reference only. Program availability and eligibility may change. Always verify details directly with the issuing organisation.
How Fundy Tech Can Help
We are based in Meteghan and serve small businesses across Southwest Nova Scotia. Here is how we help new and growing businesses get technology right from the start.
Free Technology Assessment
We will walk through your current setup (or lack of one), identify gaps, and give you honest recommendations — even if the answer is 'you do not need us yet.'
Book a free assessmentManaged IT Plans
Flat monthly rate for monitoring, patching, endpoint protection, helpdesk, and Microsoft 365 administration. Your virtual IT department.
View managed IT servicesCybersecurity & Compliance
From endpoint detection to security awareness training — we help you meet cyber insurance requirements and protect your business from day one.
Explore cybersecuritySoftware Licensing
Get the right licences at the right price. We audit what you need, eliminate waste, and leverage volume discounts through our vendor partnerships.
Learn about licensingNot sure where to start? We offer free, no-obligation technology assessments.
From Our Blog
In-depth articles on the topics that matter most to small business owners navigating technology decisions.