Investors
Investing in early-stage businesses is risky. These OSC TestLab initiatives are available to Ontario early-stage businesses raising capital from accredited investors and self-certified investors that understand the associated risks.
Investing in early-stage businesses
Early-stage investing has unique considerations and risks. You should clearly understand these before deciding to make an investment.
The resources on this page are intended for:
Investing in early-stage businesses typically happens in the private markets (exempt market). Generally, the exempt market offers investors opportunities to invest in businesses that do not yet have their shares traded in the public markets (i.e., on a stock exchange). These businesses are not subject to the same reporting and disclosure requirements as businesses that have shares traded in the public markets, and investors, therefore, do not have access to the same information in making an investment decision.
What you will find in this resource section
Understanding the exempt market
If you are new to investing in the private markets (exempt market) and early-stage businesses or would like a refresher, learn about what it means to invest in the private markets (exempt market) and some of the risks associated with investing in early-stage businesses.
Understanding the OSC TestLab Initiatives
Understand what each of the OSC TestLab Initiatives means for you as an investor and how you would evaluate the early-stage investments from businesses raising capital through the OSC TestLab Initiatives.
Evaluating potential investments offered
Information to help you learn more about potential investments offered, including factors to consider when evaluating exempt market securities of early-stage businesses; and information that early-stage businesses or dealers will likely need from you as part of the investment process in order to comply with its reporting or other obligations.
RESOURCES
These resources for investors were prepared by staff and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Ontario Securities Commission. The information in the resources is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The OSC does not approve or endorse investing in any of the businesses that are participating through the OSC TestLab initiatives.
There are many risks associated with investing in early-stage businesses and this type of investing may not be suitable for you, particularly if you are new to investing or to date, have little in the way of investments.
If you are new to investing and would like to learn about the stock market, investment types and how to get started with investing, please visit:
- The OSC’s Get Smarter About Money website: Getting started | GetSmarterAboutMoney.ca
- The Government of Canada’s website with general resources on savings and investments: Savings and investments - Canada.ca
If you are not an accredited investor nor a self-certified investor but still want to invest in the exempt market, refer to the following section for more information: What if I am not an accredited investor nor a self-certified investor but still want to invest in the exempt market?