More than 2.6 million Canadians work for themselves, and according to an annual RBC poll conducted in 2025, 59 per cent of Canadians aspire to own a business — the highest level since 2017.
The appeal is understandable. A recent poll found that nearly two-thirds of people feel they have plateaued at work and see owning a business as their next move. “Being your own boss” has become shorthand for freedom, control and finally getting paid what you are worth.
