A training and mentorship program that gives you – the entrepreneur – the resources, knowledge, and guidance for starting or expanding a business in Bruce County.
Starting a business can be daunting. You’ve already completed some essential steps in getting started. But what’s next? How do you ensure your business success in the beginning, and plan for a prosperous future?
We are here to help you navigate the process and build a strong foundation for your business. Starter Company Plus is a business development program that helps you develop the skills you need to run your business with confidence and create a solid plan for your business to reduce the risk.
When enrolled in the Starter Company Plus Program, you’ll work one on one with a business advisor and mentor every step of the way. Our workshops and training sessions provide you with the resources, knowledge and tools you need, from business fundamentals, marketing and market research, and finances to operations and human resources.
Knowledge share and learn from like-minded people while networking with other entrepreneurs in Bruce County. What’s more, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for and receive a $5,000 grant to put towards your business start up costs!
Getting Started: How Does the Program Work?
- Submit an application
- You will receive a notification that your application was submitted and you will be prompted to register for the Starter Company Plus Information Session and Training Program
- A business advisor will connect with you to discuss your application and eligibility
- You will develop a written business plan with the guidance of your business advisor
- Once you have completed the required training and developed a complete business plan you will have an opportunity to pitch your business plan to our advisory committee
- If the committee gives approval for the $5,000 grant for start-up costs, you will continue with advisor and mentorship meetings, and execute your business plan
- Upon completion of these steps, you will receive the $5,000 grant
Eligibility
- 18 years or older at the time of application
- A Canadian Citizen or permanent resident
- A resident of Ontario
- Not currently enrolled in other provincial employment or self-employment related programs
- Not currently enrolled in any self employment or entrepreneurship training / finance programs offered by government funded organizations
- Not currently attending school full time
- Able to provide a minimum personal investment of $1,250 (cash or in kind) toward the business
- Able to operate the business a minimum of 35 hours per week
- Not in receipt of Starter Company Plus funding in the past
- Operating in Bruce County
- Operating legally under government regulations and municipal by-laws
- A sole proprietorship, or corporation where the applicant is the majority owner
- A partnership where the applicant is the majority owner. If the partnership is 50/50, only one owner may apply
- Operating at arm’s length from an existing family business venture
Include:
- 18 years or older at the time of application
- A Canadian Citizen or permanent resident
- A resident of Ontario
- Not currently enrolled in other provincial employment or self-employment related programs
- Not currently enrolled in any self employment or entrepreneurship training / finance programs offered by government funded organizations
- Not currently attending school full time
- Able to provide a minimum personal investment of $1,250 (cash or in kind) toward the business
- Able to operate the business a minimum of 35 hours per week
- Not in receipt of Starter Company Plus funding in the past
Application Deadline was September 26, 2022
Contact your local Business Development Coordinator to learn more about when to apply for the 2023 Starter Company Plus Program. Let us help you develop the skills and knowledge essential in starting and business and planning for the future.
Note: Given the program is competitive in nature, not all participants will receive the grant, but will benefit from taking part in the training and mentorship.
