About this episode
Innovative businesses move fast—but Canadian law and regulation often move slower, and sometimes in unexpected ways. In this episode, we explore the key legal challenges that innovative companies in Canada need to look out for as they launch, scale, and commercialize new ideas. We https://substancelaw.ca/business-lawyer/ discuss how regulation can impact emerging sectors like fintech, payments, psychedelics, cannabis, food and beverage, health products, and other highly regulated industries. From licensing and registration requirements to audits, enforcement risk, and ongoing compliance obligations, we break down where businesses often get caught off guard. This episode also looks at structural issues that innovative companies face early on, including choosing the right regulatory pathway, managing relationships with regulators, preparing for inspections or examinations, and building compliance into operations without slowing growth. We cover common mistakes founders make when they assume innovation operates in a legal grey area—and why that assumption can be costly. Finally, we discuss why contracts, governance, and regulatory readiness matter long before a business raises capital, partners with larger players, or expands internationally. Whether you are a startup founder, executive, investor, or advisor, this episode provides practical insights into how to identify legal risks early and position your business for sustainable growth in Canada’s evolving regulatory landscape. For tailored legal guidance, consider consulting a business lawyer .