The Canadian Federation of Independent Business released its 2026 municipal report card on September 15, comparing small-business conditions in 66 Canadian municipalities. It assessed costs, regulation and small-business friendliness, weighted at 40%, 40% and 20% respectively.
Red Deer led CFIB’s ranking with 7.33 out of 10 and a C+ grade. Saskatoon scored 7.00 and Strathcona County 6.59, both receiving C grades. Toronto scored 6.57. Across the municipalities studied, the average was 4.79 and the median 4.82, within CFIB’s failing range.
The grades reflect the business association’s assessment, rather than an official government evaluation. CFIB is urging municipalities to improve conditions for local small businesses.
