Western Libraries

Entrepreneurship - Starting Your Own Business

Business Research Help

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C.B. "Bud" Johnston Library
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text: 226-777-3039
call: 519-661-3941
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Where to Start

Understanding your industry and market is essential to developing your business. This includes researching the industry, your competitors, and potential consumers. Use the resources listed to learn more about your market: 

Industry & Market Research Reports

Company & Competitor Research

Consumer Research

Primary vs Secondary Research

Primary market research includes the activities you undertake to get information from your (potential) customers or competitors (for example, interviews, surveys, focus groups, etc.). 

Secondary market research includes third-party research on user groups or customers, relevant industries, and competitors. 

This guide focuses on secondary market research sources. Consult our Primary Research for Business guide for resources to help you conduct your own market research.