What are consulting services?

Consulting services are professional advisory services that involve external experts helping businesses solve problems, improve performance, and achieve strategic goals. When using consulting services, businesses gain access to objective perspectives and specialized knowledge that may not be available in-house . Consultants can help you address a variety of business challenges, from fixing operational challenges, implementing new technologies and AI, to improving cash flow management and opening new markets.

Why use consulting services?

Consulting services can help businesses gain expert guidance and fresh perspectives and move faster towards their goals. With expertise across industries and markets, the right business consultant can help businesses navigate complex challenges, avoid mistakes, and implement best practices. Consulting support can be particularly effective for project-based work or when specific expertise is needed for a limited time.

How is BDC’s consulting offering different from other consulting firms?

Our experts have industry-specific expertise and a deep understanding of the challenges that Canadian SMEs face. We provide impartial advice, strategic insight, coaching, co-development sessions, and hands-on support to help you build long-lasting capabilities and operate independently once the consulting mandate is over. We can also finance the cost of BDC consulting services to see your project through.

What is included in BDC’s consulting services?

A typical consulting engagement includes 3 core phases. First, we gather data, analyze current operations and identify challenges and opportunities. Then, we create action plans with clear objectives, timelines and deliverables. Finally, we provide hands-on support, training and guidance to implement the recommendations. We work closely with your team. Our objective is to deliver practical, tangible business results.

Who can benefit from consulting services?

Our consulting services are designed for small- and medium‑sized businesses facing challenges that require external expertise. Regardless of your business challenge, you could benefit from our consulting expertise if you want to be actively involved in the process, value practical, actionable recommendations, and seek support with planning and implementation.

Do I need to take on multiple mandates if I require expertise in more than one field?

No. You get one cohesive mandate, with coordinated recommendations and actions across all the expertise you need.

What are the typical delays and costs?

Our mandates typically span over several months. Pricing varies according to the scope and complexity of the engagement. Financing options are also available to help cover the cost of these services.

What are the next steps once I fill out the form?

We’ll contact you to better understand your needs and challenges. Then, we’ll put together a proposal tailored to your needs, including the proposed solutions, deliverables, budget, and timelines. You’ll be able to decide if our proposal answers your needs before moving forward. There's no financial commitment until you sign off.