There’s a golden rule in business: never buy something from the same person who advises you on it.
This is especially true when it comes to insurance.

If you’re a small business owner, you don’t need to spend money right away. You can start with free or low-cost resources that offer genuine advice without trying to sell you a policy.

In Canada:

• Small Business Enterprise Centres (SBECs): Provide free one-on-one consultations to help you understand what kind of insurance your business needs.

• Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC): Offers educational materials and guides on business risk management.

• Insurance Institute of Canada: A reliable source for finding certified insurance advisors who don’t sell policies directly.

In the U.S.:

• Small Business Administration (SBA): Offers free online guides and local office advisors who explain insurance basics for small businesses.

• SCORE Mentors: A national network of volunteer business experts providing free consultations and mentorship.

• State Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs): Conduct workshops and one-on-one sessions about risk assessment and insurance planning.

If you have the budget and want more specialized guidance, consider hiring a licensed independent insurance consultant or risk management advisor.
They don’t sell insurance — they analyze your business risks, explain what coverage makes sense, and help you make an informed decision before you ever talk to a broker.