Ownership Structures

Many factors may influence the structure you choose for your farm business. Knowledge and advice can help you choose the one that best suits your operation. Explore these topics and resources to make sound decisions.

• Sole Proprietorship in Manitoba (PDF): This is the least expensive business structure to establish and operate because it involves only one person. The proprietor is responsible for making all of the business decisions. 
• Farm Partnerships in Manitoba (PDF): Partnerships are formed when two or more people decide to operate a business together. 
• Farm Corporations in Manitoba (PDF): A farm corporation is a separate legal entity that has the ability to own assets, incur debts and file income tax returns. An ownership stake in a company is represented through shares. 
• Family Trusts in Manitoba (PDF): A trust is a legal entity through which a person, called the "settlor" gives assets to persons called the "trustees" to hold and administer those assets for the benefit of others, known as the "beneficiaries". 
• Farm Business Arrangements in Manitoba (PDF): Understanding how a business arrangement (Joint Venture, Co-operative, Employment Agreement) is created, how it functions and the advantages and disadvantages of using that structure for your farm operation.