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PROGRAMS

Starter Company Plus

Starter Company Plus is a training and mentorship program funded by government of Ontario that helps people over the age of 18 to start a business, grow an existing business of 3 years or less or purchase a current business. 

Our Programs

You may be eligible to receive up to $5,000* in grant funding to put towards your business.

The program provides training and coaching through the Small Business Centre, paired with advice and mentorship from local entrepreneurs to assist and support your business.

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*The amount of grant funding is based on strength of the business plan, economic impact (jobs created), personal investment and long-term sustainability.  The number of grants available is limited.

How to Apply?

Step 1: Determine eligibility

Eligible participants for the Starter Company Plus program are:

  • Over the age of 18
  • Proposing a new company, expansion of an existing company less than 3 years in operation, or buying a business
  • A Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and resident of Ontario
  • Not a student and not returning to school.
  • Not enrolled in any government employment or self-employment related program that include or do not include financial assistance.
  • Able to commit to the training schedule and regular meetings over a minimum 3–4-month period. (Group session schedule to be supplied in fall)
  • Prepared to commit a minimum average of 35 hours a week running the business.
  • Able to match the funds being requested, of which, at least $2500 must be cash. The balance can be in-kind assets.
  • Have not received the Starter Company Plus grant or participated in another government sponsored entrepreneurial training program in the last 12 months.
  • Business must operate within Middlesex County.
  • New businesses must be able to launch and generate sales within 60 days of receiving first disbursement.

Ineligible businesses for the Starter Company Plus program include:

  • Distributorship/franchise
  • Non-profit or charity
  • Pay-per-click business
  • Commissioned sales
  • Multi-level marketing
  • Single events
  • Part-time/seasonal business

Use of Funds:

Eligible Expenses Non-Eligible Expenses
  • Equipment
  • Tools
  • Training
  • Marketing
  • Leasehold Improvements
  • One-time Supplies
  • Rent
  • Utilities
  • Inventory
  • Wages
  • Travel
  • Rolling Stock (vehicles)
  • Cell Phones
  • Office Supplies

 

Step 2: Complete eligibility assessment

  • Complete the assessment.
  • Eligible candidates will be notified within 3-5 business days on whether they are eligible to proceed to the application stage.

Step 3: Application

Applications are not currently open. Eligible candidates will be contacted after submitting their eligibility assessment.

  • The application for funds and participation in the training and coaching program will require submitting a basic business plan and cash flow projection. The plan must follow prescribed templates which will be provided to eligible candidates in late Summer 2024.

  • The application must include financial forecasts, and in the case of a business greater than 1-year-old, the most recent annual financial statements must also be provided.

  • We encourage you to watch some of the self-guided E-learning modules to assist with business planning. Access the e-learning modules.
  • Mandatory attendance at one of the Proposal writing workshops. Dates to be announced.
  • Additional resources and optional workshops are available at sbcentre.ca.

Step 4: Determination

  • A grant review committee will review the business plan submissions . Deadlines and approve dates are not yet determined.
  • This is a competitive process with limited seats, and the decision of the review committee is final.
  • Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate potential for future hires.
  • A business advisor is available to meet to provide feedback on the business plan submission. Unsuccessful applicants may be able to reapply in the next round.

Step 5: Implementation

  • Once approved, participants will meet with a business advisor to further refine the plan and set milestones before receiving the first grant installment. The first installment will be 70% of the approved grant amount.
  • Training and coaching will consist of in-person group sessions and one-to-one meetings. A schedule of critical attendance dates will be provided once finalized.
  • The remaining 30% of the grant amount will be received once all program requirements are complete, including training/coaching participation, achievement of mutually agreed upon milestones, and submission of receipts.

NOTE: Grants will be paid to the individual participating in the training and coaching.  A T4A taxable income slip will be issued.

Training and coaching support

Participants will benefit from training and mentoring roundtables with other participants and will meet one-on-one with a business advisor as needed, to ensure the business is progressing and to offer guidance.  Participation in the group sessions is mandatory. These sessions will be 2 hours long and will occur approximately every 2 weeks. Dates to be determined. 

Individual meetings will be scheduled as needed at mutually agreed times.